‘Probably’ – AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson makes managerial career admission after late Salford defeat
Johnnie Jackson admitted AFC Wimbledon’s 3-2 defeat at home to Salford on Monday was probably the most painful defeat of his managerial career.
The Dons took the lead in the seventh minute when Leicester City loanee Kasey McAteer picked up the ball on the edge of the box and struck a half-volley beyond the outstretched Alex Cairns.
Picture : Keith Gillard
Neil Wood’s side equalised in the 55th minute when Luke Jenkins let the ball bounce right in front of the 18-yard box, and Conor McAleny sneaked past the young defender to place the ball past the onrushing Nathan Broome.
Ali Al-Hamadi scored his eighth of the season four minutes later to restore Wimbledon’s lead, lashing a shot beyond Cairns from inside the penalty area.
Nathan Broome brought down Louie Barry in the 90th minute inside the area but saved Callum Hendry’s penalty.
Picture : Keith Gillard
However, two goals in stoppage time saw the Dons let their lead slip, with Salford claiming all three points.
When asked if that was the most painful defeat of his managerial career, Jackson said: “Probably. The way it happened – the late nature of the goals and with how well we played – makes it sting more.
“We have to shape this in the way I want. We have to learn the lessons of this year.
“Learn from what we did in the window, the injuries we have had, and what I know about the league and what I know about the squad.
“We have a lot of work to do in the summer.”
Wimbledon also squandered their two-goal lead at Harrogate on Friday.
“I don’t know how we have not won the game, let alone lost the game,” said Jackson of the defeat to Salford.
Picture : Keith Gillard
“It was a crazy 90 seconds there at the end – it’s cost us. It’s hard to put into words.
“The lads have to take responsibility. It’s a mentality thing – it’s about taking responsibility on the pitch.
“I said to the lads: ‘We have to do better and take more responsibility in those moments.’
“Lapses of concentration and you get done. That’s top-level football.”
PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD