MK Dons have enjoyed some memorable Third Round matches in the Emirates FA Cup – here are some of the standout moments!
Back in January 2006, the Dons were paired with Premier League Southampton in their first-ever Third Round tie.
Danny Wilson’s men found themselves 3-1 down with 12 minutes to play at St. Mary’s Stadium but a free-kick from Nicky Rizzo set up Gareth Edds to equalise late on with one of his trademark low strikes.
The Dons did concede a late winner to Darren Kenton but the travelling Dons supporters certainly enjoyed the moment they thought a Premier League scalp was on the cards courtesy of a finish from the man famed for his late important goals.
Bowds breaks down the R’s!
Premier League QPR were the visitors to Stadium MK in this January 2012 Third Round fixture - one which will be remembered for controversial moments which cost the Dons a chance at victory but also Dean Bowditch’s terrific second-half strike in front of a packed-out Cowshed.
Karl Robinson’s men had dominated the R’s throughout most of the contest and would have been ahead in the first-half if not for an offside flag ruling out Jabo Ibehre’s goal and referee Michael Oliver not spotting a blatant handball on QPR defender Clint Hill in the area.
The Dons did, though, find that opening goal in the 65th minute courtesy of Bowditch, who drove his left-footed strike into the far corner of the net to send the majority of the 19,506 crowd into raptures.
Unfortunately, the Premier League outfit were able to earn themselves a replay through Heidar Helguson’s late finish, which appeared to be offside – the Rangers would go on to win the second tie just 10 days later.
A lot happened before Bamford’s parting goal, including a memorable first 45 minutes in which the Dons fought back from 2-0 down to go into the half-time break level courtesy of a Ben Reeves brace in stoppage-time.
Loanee Patrick Bamford told MK Dons PlayerHD in the build-up to his final outing for the Club – an Emirates FA Cup Third-Round tie with Wigan Athletic – that he’d like to sign off with a goal, which is exactly what he did in an eventful clash at the DW Stadium.
That set the stage for Bamford, who earned his loan club a replay in his final outing before joining Derby County with an 84th minute finish from close-range.
Shaun Williams then had the chance to put his side ahead in the second half but missed from the penalty spot before Callum McManaman restored Wigan’s lead with 25 minutes left to play.
Tickets for MK Dons' Emirates FA Cup Third Round tie at Brighton & Hove Albionare priced at £12 adults, £8 seniors/under-21s and £6 under-18s, while travel is available from £17 with discounts available for Season Ticket holders and members.
To purchase tickets/travel click here, visit the Box Office/centre:mk kiosk or call 0333 200 5343.