AFC Wimbledon boss praises Matty Stevens’ composure after goal in Salford win – ex Forest Green striker moves top of League Two scoring charts

Johnnie Jackson praised Matty Stevens’ composure after his goal in AFC Wimbledon’s 1-0 win over Salford on Saturday afternoon.

The striker netted his 16th league goal of the season in the 65th minute to wrap up three vital points in a tight contest.

Stevens was played through by Marcus Browne inside his own half and had plenty of time to think where he was going to put the ball past Salford keeper Jamie Jones.

“It’s a tough finish,” said Jackson.

“He has his mate square to him who had a tap in if he passed it.

“If you take it on, you have to score. That’s what he has got – the confidence in himself. 

“He has had an age to think about it and what he’s going to do.

“You want a cool head in that situation and Matty has got that. 

“He took it well.”

Stevens’ goal put him above Nathan Lowe in the League Two top goalscorer charts.

Lowe hit the ground running with Walsall but was recalled by Stoke in the January window.

Bradford’s Andy Cook is also out for the rest of the season with an ACL injury.

Stevens is up against Bromley’s Michael Cheek and Notts County’s Alassana Jatta.

“I hope so,” said Jackson when asked if Stevens could end the season with the league’s Golden Boot.

“It means he’s going to score more goals, which will help us win games and put us right up there.

“There is no reason why he can’t be in that shake-up.

“Cook is out for the season and Nathan Lowe has gone back.

“Two guys who would have scored a hatful, but they’re not there.

“That’s not our problem. We need Matty to keep doing what he’s doing.

“He doesn’t need to put any more pressure on himself target-wise.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD