Johnnie Jackson delivers verdict on AFC Wimbledon’s play-off chances after victory over Stockport

AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson has shared his thoughts on AFC Wimbledon’s League Two play-off chances after Saturday’s 1-0 win over Stockport County.

The visitors were awarded a penalty midway through the first half when Nik Tzanev and Kyle Knoyle collided inside the penalty area.

The New Zealand shot-stopper kept out Myles Hippolyte’s spot-kick by diving low to his left-hand side and pushing away any danger.

Wimbledon took the lead quickly after the start of the second half when Huseyin Biler’s cross from the right-hand side found Harry Pell, who was left unmarked and planted a header past Ben Hinchcliffe.

Stockport threw on forwards Paddy Madden and Jack Stretton in search of an equaliser, but the Dons cleared everything towards Nik Tzanev’s goal to secure their first League Two win of 2023.

Wimbledon moved up to 10th in League Two and are now three points off the play-off places after collecting all three points.

The visitors were 10th in the League Two table – above the Dons – before kick-off at Plough Lane.

When asked whether he and the Wimbledon fans should dare to dream, Jackson said: “We’re a really good team who are hard to beat.

“We have beaten a very, very good side that a lot of people, myself included, rate highly – they will be in the shake-up towards the end of the season.

“We have proved on our day that we are a match for these teams.

“Obviously, [it’s down to] consistency. Let’s not get carried away and try and grind out the wins little by little. We can see where it takes us, but we’re in a really good position and in a really good place.

“You saw the atmosphere around the football club today.

“The rapport between us as players, staff and supporters and the camaraderie we have got at the training ground is unrivalled. I promise you.

“That can take you quite far. We have got quality as well. Let’s see where it takes us.”

PICTURES: LUCY DIXON