Milton Keynes Dons

Matt O’Riley’s 92nd-minute header gave Russell Martin’s side an important three points on Saturday afternoon – with the Midfielder joking he couldn’t see a thing as the ball was swung into the box.

O’Riley admits the Dons made hard work of the win but described the victory as 'a massive three points.’

Cameron Jerome’s brace set Martin’s men on course for a comfortable win, however, within a mad five minutes, Accrington drew level. O’Riley connected perfectly with Matthew Sorinola’s cross to secure a deserved victory for the Dons.

The win stopped the rot of three consecutive defeats, and despite their blip in form, O’Riley admits the Dons never lost faith in their abilities.

“We haven't been winning but we haven't lost belief,” the 20-year-old told iFollow MK Dons. “We all still look confident on the ball, we all believe in each other and we kept going until the end. We weren't on the ropes, we were a bit nervous, but we stuck with it. 

“Towards the end of the first half, we lost a bit of control. We had complete control in the first 20 minutes or so, but we have to learn to keep that control.

“It's probably the first time I've made contact with a header all season, which is pretty embarrassing, but quite cool at the same time! It felt amazing. I think we made it harder than we needed for ourselves - I'm grateful we made it through the game like we did.”

Although O’Riley was impressive in the middle of the park, it was Matthew Sorinola who was named Man of the Match. Sorinola registered three assists as he proved a thorn in the side of Accrington Stanley all afternoon.

O’Riley and Sorinola have known each other since the formative years of their careers having progressed through the Academy System at Fulham. The Midfielder praised his counterpart for his impact on Saturday’s game highlighting his bravery to put the ball into dangerous areas.

“It's mental, isn't it?! Three assists on his second start in two months - it's impressive. I've known him since he was eight, so I knew how he plays and what he wanted to do with it, it's good to have that connection.

“I'm really happy to be playing alongside him in this team. He was putting the ball into dangerous areas and that takes a lot of spirit and courage, we’ll keep going and see where we can go.”

O’Riley also reserved special praise for Dean Lewington and Cameron Jerome – two of the experienced heads in the Dons dressing room who have helped him during the early stages of his Dons career.

“It helps to have someone like Dean Lewington who brings that composure to the whole team. His quality alongside Griggy and Cammy – we have bundles of experience. We have the perfect balance to kick on going into next season.

“Cammy is a great guy and a good person to have in the dressing room as well, he helps me and always encourages me. We’ve developed a good relationship over the last few months and he’s another player who is going to score goals.”