Four takeaways from AFC Wimbledon’s 2-2 draw against Fleetwood

On a bitterly cold November day, AFC Wimbledon and Fleetwood put on an entertaining 2-2 draw to try and warm the supporters in attendance.

Fleetwood Town, who had Stephen Crainey in interim charge following Simon Grayson’s departure, dominated proceedings and caused no end of problems for the Dons as they packed the midfield with four and often five players, which meant the hosts’ natural pressing and passing style was nullified – much to the frustration of home supporters.

Here are Laurence Lowne’s four takeaways

RED CARD RESCINDED AS ASSAL UNDERLINES HIS WORTH

Wimbledon’s number 10 is often on the end of shocking fouls and is probably the most skilful player in their side. He showed just how beneficial he is to the cause with a stunning goal to equalise in the 53rd minute. It was an emphatic answer to those who had questioned how he would react to the previous game where a red card was incorrectly shown. All credit to the Crewe players for their support as the club were successful in their appeal.

LUKE McCORMICK SHINES
This was a player who revelled in the conditions of extreme cold, high wind and horizontal rain. The former Chelsea midfielder covered every blade of grass as he sought a way through. His goal in the 79th minute was a stunning move and shot. This goal surpassed his opening day winner at Doncaster. McCormick was a total thorn in Fleetwood’s defence throughout and ran himself into the ground.

FRUSTRATION FOR THE DONS
Wimbledon are perhaps a team seeking another way past packed midfields. With the return of Egli Kaja last week, they might just have that again as he is capable of both speed and skill, plus crossing accuracy. It was noted that the number of crosses against Fleetwood was much lower than Crewe on Tuesday night. Strikers and supporting midfielders thrive on crosses – Kaja can deliver those.

IT IS COLD OUTSIDE
Probably the first really cold match this season saw the concourses packed in the West Stand, as supporters took shelter from the elements, plus The Phoenix did a roaring trade too. With screens aplenty supporters could see what is coming in the next few weeks, while catching up on scores around the country. A super attendance of 7,405 including 117 hardy souls from the North West were a credit to both clubs as they huddled to keep warm. Thoughts of penguins in Antarctica came to mind.