mkdons.com details the storylines to follow ahead of Saturday's Sky Bet League One fixture at the Stadium MK.
The start to an important month?
With just 12 games left in the season it’s fair to say MK Dons are approaching the final straight. March will see Dan Micciche’s side play six games – four of which are at Stadium MK. They start this weekend as Bristol Rovers are the visitors to MK1. Next weekend the Dons will travel to Bradford City before a trio of home fixtures against Rotherham, Bury and Blackpool before completing the month against Gillingham away from home.
With a possible 18 points up for grabs this month, a strong start in front of the MK Dons faithful will put the wheels in motion for the remainder of March.
Team News
Micciche could possibly welcome back a number of faces to the fold this weekend. One man who is certainly available again for selection is Ed Upson. The midfielder missed both draws against Rochdale and Fleetwood due to accumulating 10 yellow cards. Ethan Ebanks-Landell was on the bench on Saturday after the defender served his ban.
Micciche will also be hoping to welcome both Peter Pawlett and Osman Sow after the pair spent a number of weeks in the treatment room. Speaking to iFollow MK Dons after the final whistle at Highbury, Micciche said, “We’ve got two or three back next week too and we’re starting to gather momentum at last.”
For the latest team news on Saturday make sure you’re following @mkdonsfc on Twitter.
Midfield Duo
At Fleetwood, both Callum Brittain and Robbie Muirhead were given a starting berth in the middle of midfield. Although it could’ve raised some eyebrows when the team was announced to pair were impressive in midfield with both putting in Man of the Match performances.
Muirhead opened the scoring in Lancashire while Brittain looked assured in midfield throughout. Could we see the duo once again make their mark on the MK Dons midfield?
Win or Lose…. (or draw)
Interestingly, Bristol Rovers have drawn only four games this season – the fewest in Sky Bet League One. It’s also the second lowest total from the 92 teams in English with only Swindon, Crewe and Manchester City (3) drawing fewer games While they don’t tend to draw often, the men from MK1 have recorded seven home draws this season, the latest coming against AFC Wimbledon in January.
The Dons defence will have to be on their toes come Saturday as The Gas have scored 49 times this season – only five teams in the division have found the net on more occasions. They are however vulnerable to conceding goals too, as Darrell Clarke’s side have shipped 52 goals – 54% of which have happened on the road.
If you’d like to place a bet on Saturday’s clash click HERE to do so with SkyBet.
Leighton-Linslade Big Day
Saturday’s clash with Bristol Rovers has been designated as the Leighton-Linslade Big Day meaning residents with an LU7 postcode can purchase tickets at a discounted rate of £10 adults and £3 under-18s. Under-12s go FREE with a Young Dons membership*.
There will be an Arriva Bus service will be leaving from Linslade Southcourt Road at 1.45pm and Leighton Buzzard High Street at 1.50pm. Return tickets for this are priced at just £4 adults and £2.50 for children.
To book tickets visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 0333 200 5343. Tickets will be available to buy right up until kick-off.
