MK Dons recorded their first Sky Bet League One win since the end of September as they overcame Fleetwood Town 1-0 on Saturday afternoon.
Chuks Aneke scored the only goal of the game as Robbie Neilson’s men displayed courage and togetherness in the closing stages of the game as Fleetwood Town piled on the pressure. The win lifts the Dons into 16th place, just four points off the play-off places.
“This is a massive confidence builder for us,” Neilson said in his post-match press conference. “People talk about 1-0 wins being drab and boring, but it builds huge confidence in the defence because we know with a lead, we can see the game out or we can go get more.
“In the first-half, we passed well and created a few opportunities and got the goal. Then in the second-half, at 1-0 – we knew it was going to be difficult because they only needed one chance, a slip or a bit of magic and they’d be back into the game.”
He added: “We stood really firm and even had opportunities to make it 2-0 – I’m pleased with the resolve of the team.”
Here’s what else Neilson had to say in his post-match interview...
Chuks goal was well deserved
“We all know Chuks is a top player. He has been chasing that goal for a while, staying behind at training to improve his finishing. It'll be a boost for him, he deserved it.”
Praise for wingers
“We spoke during the week about playing against Fleetwood's 3-5-2, but I felt Peter Pawlett and Gboly Ariyibi were fantastic. They had to do the work at both ends, making it a five-man or six-man defence at times.
“We've missed Peter a lot this season because of his energy and pace, but he also has real quality and understanding of the game.”
Agard’s performance deserved a goal
“Strikers go through droughts, the most important thing is getting in the right position. Ryan Seager is the same, but he got his goal against Oxford in the week. If they continue to get in those positions, the goals will come.
“Kieran is a great player for us. He played against a back three on his own, he shifted across, broke in behind. I'm disappointed he didn't get his goal but he sacrificed it for his work rate.”
Cup games provided momentum
“The cup games were great and gave us momentum but the league is the main objective for us. It's extremely tight. We've not had a great start and hopefully, we can start to pick up now. We're still only four points off the play-offs. If we can find some consistency, pick up points and be right there. We have to remain confident and work hard.”
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Robbie Neilson and his MK Dons side take on Charlton Athletic this Saturday in a Sky Bet League One fixture at The Valley.
Tickets for the clash are priced from £20 adults, £16 seniors/under-21s, £10 students/under-18s and £5 under-11s when bought in advance of matchday.
Season tickets, meanwhile, are able to travel to The Valley for just £12. Adult/Over-65 members can purchase travel for £16 with Under-18s priced at £15 – a £1 discount from general sale.
To purchase tickets click here, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 0333 5343. Tickets will remain on sale from the Club until 5pm on Friday.
