Luke Williams praised a professional performance from MK Dons in their Emirates FA Cup success over Barnet.
The Dons booked their place in the Third Round of the prestigious competition courtesy of a 1-0 win at The Hive – Cameron Jerome the scorer of the decisive goal with just eight minutes left to play.
On a weekend where three non-league sides progressed through to round three, assistant manager Williams was happy to avoid an upset.
“These games can be so tough because the other team are so motivated and the expectation is so high for you to win,” Williams said in his post-match press conference.
“It's very seldom that these games are a walkover - teams that have been dumped out of the cup already will testify to that!
“We had to avoid the banana skin today and we did that. We were very professional, controlled the game and managed to get the win.
“We had great chances, and if they go in, it gives us a different feeling. In the end, we had to stand there and be nervous for a longer period of time until Cammy comes on and puts it to bed.”
Williams added: “We're trying to strike a balance of controlling the possession and creating chances while staying resolute at the back and we've done that today. At times, yes, we’d want to play quicker, but, in the end, we got the job done being true to ourselves.”
Jerome will steal the headlines for his match-winning goal – a cheeky back-heeled finish which made it five goals from 11 games for the experienced striker, since moving to Stadium MK.
However, another player who drew praise from Williams was midfielder Lasse Sorensen, who came off the bench to produce a standout performance in the middle of the park – just four days after being substituted after only half an hour against Shrewsbury Town.
“Lasse understood that his substitution was not because of him but because the set-up was wrong – that was on us. He understood that and his mentality has been kept in tact, so he was able to come on and make a huge impact today.”
On Jerome, Williams added: “Cameron is a top level performer. Under different circumstances, we wouldn't even have him here.
“He doesn't just want to be here to extend his career, he is so invested in everything. He watches and analyses each game, helps his fellow players in the dressing and his quality on the pitch is the difference here in the end.”
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MK Dons turn their attention back to Sky Bet League One football this Wednesday, as they take on Charlton Athletic at The Valley. Kick-off is at 7.45pm.
Due to the Government’s Covid-19 restrictions, the tie will take place in front of only 2,000 home supporters but MK Dons fans will be able to watch the match courtesy of an iFollow MK Dons Video Match Pass.
With an iFollow MK Dons Video Match pass, you will be able to watch Martin's side in action on your laptop, computer, tablet or mobile device! Want to watch on your tablet or mobile device? Download the new EFL iFollow App and watch on the go, wherever you are!
To purchase a £10 Video Match Pass, click HERE and select Buy A Video Match Pass. Then simply log in to your iFollow MK Dons account and follow the instructions or register for an account, which can be done for free.
