‘Faultless’ – Johnnie Jackson reacts as AFC Wimbledon pick up first win of 2023-24 League Two campaign

Johnnie Jackson said his side’s work rate was “faultless” as they secured their first win of the 2023-24 League Two campaign following a 2-0 win at Colchester United.

The Dons claimed all three points thanks to a second-half brace from summer signing James Tilley.

Wimbledon recorded 21 shots – seven on target – and had more possession than Ben Garner’s side as they moved up to eighth in the League Two table.

“We have been playing really well,” Jackson told Wimbledon’s YouTube channel.

“Even with the two draws [against Grimsby and Wrexham], we all felt we should have won those games.

“We’re in a good spot, but we hadn’t won in the league coming into the game, so there was a little bit of pressure.

“The lads produced. In and out of possession, it was an outstanding away performance that was capped off with two great goals. I’m happy with it.

“The attitude to their work was faultless. We’re reaping the rewards of a brilliant pre-season – the work they put in and how fit they got.

“The lads who aren’t involved come on, they’re making a difference because they’re fresh and energised – they’re ready to go.

“I can’t give enough plaudits to our players.”
Tilley has scored three goals for the Dons – getting off the mark with a penalty in the 1-1 draw against Wrexham last Saturday – since arriving on a permanent switch from Crawley over the summer.

Jackson added: “Speaking to James when I was trying to bring him to the football club, having seen him over the years, he has brilliant ability, but I always felt that he should score more goals.

“We know about his creativity, but he’s added goals early doors. The work he’s doing out of possession is equally important.

“I want more, I always want more. I’m sure there is more to come.”

Fellow summer signing Josh Neuvfille grabbed both assists for Tilley’s goals at the Colchester Community Stadium.

The ex-Sutton winger also went close to opening his account for the club, smashing an effort off the crossbar in the second half.

“I’m gutted for him – he deserved that,” said Jackson of Neufville going close.

“One of my criticisms of us so far is that we haven’t got him on the ball enough as a team.

“We need to get him on those one-on-one situations because he is such a threat. I wouldn’t want to mark him, that’s for sure.”

PICTURE: LUCY DIXON