MK Dons will have a big part to play in the battle for Sky Bet League One survival, with three of their final four matches against teams inside the bottom four, including tonight’s trip to Bristol Rovers.
Russell Martin’s men will face 23rd-placed Rovers this evening before hosting bottom-of-the-table Swindon Town at Stadium MK at the weekend. Then, following a trip to Fleetwood Town next Saturday, they finish the season against Rochdale, who currently lie 22nd.
With plenty at stake for the trio, Martin knows his team will have to find the intensity to match their opponents if they are to end the season in a positive manner.
“We will have a big say in how the table finishes,” the Dons boss acknowledged in his pre-match press conference ahead of tonight’s visit to the Memorial Stadium.
“It makes it difficult for us because we are playing sides that are desperate to stay in the league. They are fighting for their lives to stay in the league and we will have to match their desire to win because they’ll certainly have that.
“It’s going to be really tough but I have no doubt the boys will be up for it. They’ll be really motivated and will look to go there and play really well. We want to impose our game and win as many as possible before the end of the season.”
While the Dons might not have as much to play for as their upcoming opponents, Martin insists that every game still matters to him and his players in preparation for next season.
“I think from a mentality point of view you have to finish strong,” Martin said. “We have to see the value in every game.
“We want to build belief and momentum and finish as high as possible, to give the lads validation in what they are doing. Also, if we want to attract players in the summer, it helps the higher up we finish.
“We’ve also put in too much hard work for it to just fizzle out. It’s been a battle to get here, and we wouldn’t do ourselves justice if we coasted through. It wouldn’t be fair to the fans either, because they’ve been incredible.”
***
Supporters can watch tonight's Sky Bet League One clash with Bristol Rovers LIVE on iFollow MK Dons.
With an iFollow MK Dons Video Match pass, you will be able to watch Russell 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.
