Johnnie Jackson hails “really professional” performance in Barrow win as Dons close on play-off spots

AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson hailed the professionalism of his side’s 2-0 win over automatic promotion hopefuls Barrow on Saturday afternoon.

The Dons went 1-0 up when Armani Little played a ball over the top for January signing Josh Kelly to chase. 

Barrow keeper Paul Farman came to meet the pass but could only head into the path of Ronan Curtis, who volleyed an effort over the stopper and into the net on his first start for the club.

Wimbledon doubled their lead in the 26th minute when Little crossed for Omar Bugiel inside the area to head past Farman.

Kelly missed two great chances in the second half to put the Dons 3-0 up – Farman stopping both one-on-one efforts on the counter attack.

Barrow substitute Jamie Proctor was sent off in the 86th minute after referee Scott Simpson spoke with fourth official Andrew Hickman.

The three points moved Wimbledon one point away from the top seven.

“It was a deserved win and we played really well,” said Jackson.

“I have to give Barrow a lot of credit – they’re a top team and have shown that with their performances and when they are in the league.

“We did a lot of work this week and showed them that respect. We knew if we were going to get anything from it, then we had to be at our best, and we were really good.

“It was really professional and we probably could have scored a few more to put the game to bed.

“If you had offered me two goals and a clean sheet before the game, I would have taken it.

“These are good results against good teams – we just want to find that consistency. Before you know it, we’re on the bus to Accrington on Monday and that isn’t one of the easier places to go.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD