Blennerhassett’s brace helped the young Dons to claim a 2-1 victory over Stevenage, in their opening EFL Youth Alliance League fixture.

The EFL Youth Alliance League started their 2022/2023 campaign on Saturday 6th August. Out of the 11 teams within the Southeast region, only three were able to claim victories on the opening day. This included Cambridge United, Luton Town and MK Dons.
 
The Dons claimed their first goal through an audacious finish by Blennerhassett, the ball had fallen into the path of the number nine after Stacey took his goal-kick, the striker then glanced up to see the Stevenage keeper off his line. Soon after, Blennerhassett was able to take advantage by lobbing the ball over the keeper and into the open net.
 
The score line remained at 1-1, until the final few minutes left of play. John Bitting’s team displayed their Dons spirit and they failed to give up until the end.
 
On the 89-minute mark MK Dons gained the lead. A late free-kick within the Dons’ half was swiftly taken by Waller, who located Holmes on the right-flank. The number 14 then cut the ball across into a dangerous area, where Blennerhassett was located, in preparation to attack the opportunity.
 
The striker was quick to react, which granted him the upper hand over the Stevenage defenders. Although the initial shot was blocked, Blennerhassett’s tenacity achieved him his brace after the second consecutive attempt.
 
The Young Dons celebrated as one, after they achieved victory at the death of the match. This result allowed the team to acquire three points within the opening weekend of the Youth Alliance League.
 
 
MK Dons: Stacey, Lucas (Holmes 53), Stirland, Wood, Waller, Mann, Tripp, Blennerhassett, Bombo (Daffern 45), Pickering (Boyce 77)
 
Goals: Blennerhassett (63, 89)
 
Subs: Olaleye, Anderson