MK Dons showed a different side to their game in order to walk away from the Pirelli Stadium with all three points.
That’s according to manager Russell Martin, whose side made it three wins in succession thanks to the 2-1 victory over Burton Albion.
It should have been much more comfortable for the Dons, who deservedly led by two goals until a 73rd-minute penalty from Lucas Akins set up a nervy finish. Martin’s men, though, held on brilliantly – something the boss was delighted with after the game.
“We had to show a different side to our game,” Martin said in his post-match interview with iFollow MK Dons.
“For 70-odd minutes, until we gave away the penalty, it was an outstanding performance. There weren't a lot of chances but we had a lot of control against a tough, direct and aggressive team. Some of the play was great to watch.
“The game went away from us when we conceded, and you can understand that. They had renewed energy and were going all out to equalise.
“Away from home, on a tight pitch, we had to dig in and we did that brilliantly. The defending was great, we threw bodies on the line, and Fish (Andrew Fisher) only had to make one save of note.
“We don't want games to turn like that. At 2-0, it should have been comfortable for us but the mentality they've shown - the determination and the conviction to want to do it - I'm so proud of them.”
There were a number of standout performers on Saturday, not least Dean Lewington who put in another assured performance on his 800th outing for MK Dons.
But there was also a special mention for Josh McEachran, who helped to run the show in the middle of park just four days after a neck issue forced him off against Plymouth Argyle.
“Josh is a guy who is coming back from a long-term injury and hasn't played a lot of football but is having a big impact on us, with the amount of control he gives us and the performances he’s giving us.
“We've been so pleased with him and the exciting thing is, he'll only get fitter and stronger.”
Martin then discussed Lewington’s milestone, saying: “He had a huge action towards the end, heading away in the box. I'm just really pleased we won for him and the players are really pleased too – we couldn't let him down!
“I cannot begin to explain how good he is, or how much of an achievement 800 games is for someone in this day and age. And for one club too! I'm convinced it will never happen again.
“We cannot underestimate how brilliant that is or how important he is to the Club and continues to be. If he continues to play like that, I'm sure there'll be plenty more games to come.”
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Russell Martin's MK Dons will look to make it four wins in succession when they take on Doncaster Rovers at Stadium MK this Saturday afternoon.
Due to the Government’s Covid-19 restrictions, the fixture will take place behind closed doors but fans can still ensure they don't miss a minute of the action thanks to iFollow MK Dons.
Season Ticket holders will be able to watch the match for FREE. You will simply need to log-in to your iFollow MK Dons to view the game - click HERE for full information!
All other supporters will be able to enjoy the game by purchasing an iFollow MK Dons Video Match pass - to purchase a £10 Video Match Pass, click HERE and select Buy A Video Match Pass!
