Johnnie Jackson’s verdict as bottom-of-the-table Rochdale beat AFC Wimbledon

BY DAN EVANS

AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson lamented his side’s below-par performance in their 1-0 defeat to bottom-of-the-table Rochdale.

Rochdale, who sacked their manager Jim Bentley on Monday, ended a run of 13 League Two outings without a win thanks to Danny Lloyd’s second-half strike.

Wimbledon have only won twice in 2023 under Jackson and stay 16th in the League Two table.

“It was a below-par performance from us today,” said Jackson. “It was the same team as the other night. After their performance [against Walsall], I felt they deserved another opportunity. 

“All the good things that we did were sadly lacking today. I’ve seen what this team is capable of, but we haven’t been able to produce it today.  

“Losing always hurts. It’s just frustrating because of how well we played just a short while ago. It’s tough to take.” 

Wimbledon had 15 shots during the game, but Rochdale’s only shot on target in the 64th minute condemned the Dons to their seventh defeat from their last nine.

“I don’t think there was anything in the game,” added the Dons boss.

“We had the majority of the chances, but we lacked a bit of quality in those moments. We didn’t have the bravery to take the openings that we had. 

“We haven’t tested their goalkeeper enough. They made some good blocks and we put them under pressure, but they haven’t had to work hard for their clean sheet.” 

PICTURES: LUCY DIXON