MK Dons will be looking to maintain their winning form tonight and book their place in the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup.
Robbie Neilson’s side will be out to secure their third in five games, following on from successes over Coventry City and AFC Wimbledon in Sky Bet League One. In between those clashes was the goalless draw with Charlton Athletic, which set up this evening’s replay.
A victory tonight would, of course, see the Dons maintain that good form but also secure a place in the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup for the fifth time in six years – an away trip to Brighton & Hove Albion awaits the winners.
Kick-off is at 7.45pm.
Charlton arrive at Stadium MK in search of their first win under manager Karl Robinson.
The Addicks, though, are in reasonably good form having lost just once in their last 12 matches in all competitions and enjoyed victories over the likes of Scunthorpe United and Bristol Rovers – both of which are top-half sides in Sky Bet League One.
However, the majority of their positives results have come at The Valley, with only two triumphs to their name away from home.
Dean Bowditch’s second-half penalty ensured a winning start for new boss Robbie Neilson at Stadium MK as his Dons side beat rivals AFC Wimbledon 1-0.
His men dominated the first half and went close through a deflected Ben Reeves shot which spun just past the post.
Bowditch then went even closer to an opener with a diving header early in the second period but the side’s top scorer eventually got himself on the scoresheet in the 63rd minute – converting from the penalty spot after Dean Lewington was bundled over in the area.
That goal proved to be the only winner, as Neilson got his home career as Dons manager off to the perfect start.
A victory tonight would, of course, see the Dons maintain that good form but also secure a place in the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup for the fifth time in six years – an away trip to Brighton & Hove Albion awaits the winners.
Kick-off is at 7.45pm.
Charlton arrive at Stadium MK in search of their first win under manager Karl Robinson.
The Addicks, though, are in reasonably good form having lost just once in their last 12 matches in all competitions and enjoyed victories over the likes of Scunthorpe United and Bristol Rovers – both of which are top-half sides in Sky Bet League One.
However, the majority of their positives results have come at The Valley, with only two triumphs to their name away from home.
Dean Bowditch’s second-half penalty ensured a winning start for new boss Robbie Neilson at Stadium MK as his Dons side beat rivals AFC Wimbledon 1-0.
His men dominated the first half and went close through a deflected Ben Reeves shot which spun just past the post.
Bowditch then went even closer to an opener with a diving header early in the second period but the side’s top scorer eventually got himself on the scoresheet in the 63rd minute – converting from the penalty spot after Dean Lewington was bundled over in the area.
That goal proved to be the only winner, as Neilson got his home career as Dons manager off to the perfect start.
However, the visitors were able to hold on for a point, despite having to play the final four minutes of stoppage time with 10 men following Patrick Bauer’s dismissal.
Bradford also went close before the break through Jordy Hiwula but their best chance came in the second when the same man was again denied by goalkeeper Dillon Phillips.
Robinson’s side hit the post, had a shot cleared off the line and were denied a penalty in the first half at the Coral Windows Stadium.
Charlton earned themselves an impressive point at fourth-placed Bradford City, as the Addicks’ unbeaten run continued.
“We'll put out a strong team and look to keep the momentum going. It's important we get some continuity and the mentality of turning up and winning and going on to the next one."
"It's up to us to respect Charlton as a team, who have good strengths, but ultimately it's two teams playing football. It doesn't matter who is in the dugout.
Robbie Neilson: "(Karl) had a six good years here and he did a great job, getting the team into the Championship and building a strong Club. I'd like to think a manager like that would get a good reception and I'm sure he will.
“The aim is to be playing Brighton in a few weeks time. To be in the Third Round of the FA Cup is always an honour too.”
“Our performance in the first half against them at The Valley was poor but I though second half we were a lot better.
Karl Robinson: “It’s nice to go back to a club take you’ve worked at. I’m proud to be going back managing this club as well.
Last Dons win: 1-0, 3 Nov 2015 (Stadium MK)
Dons wins at Stadium MK: 2
Dons wins: 2
Jones’ assistant referees this evening are Alan Young and Ian Smedley while the fourth official is Josh Smith.
In 22 games this season, Jones has shown 72 yellow cards. He has only produced two red cards with one of those being shown in his last outing.
Robert Jones will take charge of tonight’s game – the second time he has refereed the Dons this season having marshalled the 4-1 win over Fleetwood Town back in September.
Jason Pearce (groin) is definitely out too along with Patrick Bauer, who is suspended.
Defender Morgan Fox and winger Ademola Lookman have not travelled due to a virus, which had affected Nicky Ajose, Lee Novak and Josh Magennis last weekend.
Joe Walsh (ankle) remains sidelined along with Nicky Hamstring (hamstring). Scott Wootton (knee) remains a long-term absentee.
Dean Bowditch limped off in the second half against AFC Wimbledon while striker Kieran Agard also picked up a knock – both players will be monitored ahead of kick-off.
Neilson is expected to field a relatively strong side for tonight’s tie but he does have a couple of injury worries from the weekend.
Last draw: 0-0, 3 Dec 2016 (The Valley)
Draws at Stadium MK: 1
Draws: 3
Last Charlton win: 2-1, 14 Feb 2012 (The Valley)
Charlton wins at Stadium MK: 2
Charlton wins: 5
A full match report will be available to view on mkdons.com straight after the final whistle.
There will also be full coverage on the Club’s social media channels – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat!
Supporters can also stay in touch with the Dons via mkdons.com’s matchday blog, which can be accessed by visiting the home page from 5pm.
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for more betting options for tonight’s Emirates FA Cup tie - don't forget the Dons benefit every time you win with Sky Bet! here Click
*All odds correct at the time of writing
Ademola Lookman: 7/1
Lee Novak: 13/2
Josh Magennis: 11/2
Nicky Ajose: 5/1
No goalscorer: 10/1
Daniel Powell: 15/2
Ryan Colclough: 7/1
Dean Bowditch: 6/1
Kieran Agard: 9/2
First goalscorer
Charlton: 7/4
Dons: 2/5
To qualify
Charlton win: 16/5
Draw: 13/5
Dons win: 17/20
Result after 90mins
Tickets for tonight's Emirates FA Cup replay at Stadium MK are priced at £10 adults, £3 under-18s and £1 under-12s.
To purchase tickets click here, visit the Box Office/centre:mk kiosk or call 0333 200 5343.Tickets will also be available from the cash-only booths around Stadium Mk ahead of kick-off.
