Daniel Harvie, who contributed the last MK Dons goal in a 5-3 victory at the STōK Cae Ras, spoke to the press about the end-to-end fixture on opening day of the season.
Although Graham Alexander’s men held a 4-2 advantage in the latter stages of the game, Harvie’s well-placed finish on the edge of the area ensured the victory despite Anthony Forde’s finish moments after.
Both teams entered Sky Bet League Two through juxtaposed circumstances, but the first game of the 2023/24 campaign provided a clean slate. “The fans were top class – after last season they could’ve been a bit indifferent, but for us as players, talk is cheap.”
Harvie said after achieving three points in North Wales, he further explained “We can say what we can on social media, but it's about our actions on the pitch.
“It's something a lot of us have thought about over the summer. We can apologise online but fans want actions, they want us to do it on the pitch.”
Even though the Dons achieved an entertaining victory, the full-back remained level-headed in his approach “It’s the first game, it’s a win but there’s a long way to go.
“As much as it’s a great win, there are things we can tweak and improve on for their goals. We were clinical when we had those chances. But we conceded three goals and sometimes that might not be enough. On other days, we might not be as clinical.
“It’s a positive result, a good overall performance but we can tighten up a few defensive things. We’ll take it and we’ll work hard to get better.”
Ethan Robson’s delivery caused the mistake for MK Dons’ opener before Mo Eisa eliminated six defenders, who attempted to stop him as he doubled the advantage. Jonathan Leko’s brace provided Graham Alexander’s side with the third and fourth goals, prior to Harvie’s final finish to round-off the travelling team’s scoring.
When questioned about the strike taken by his weak foot to locate the bottom corner, the Scotsman replied “Sometimes you just need to go for it, and it's something I should do more to get more goals and assists.
“I'm always trying to get better at it so I'm happy it went in. I was going to pass it, and I think that's what sometimes comes back to bite me because I pass it instead of shooting myself.”
Finally, Harvie touched on the tough preparations throughout the summer prior to the opening day triumph at the STōK Cae Ras. “As much as it’s tiring during pre-season, training before games, this is what it’s for.
“We want to be high pace, win the ball in the attacking third and score goals so we have to be fit enough to do that.
“The boys were unbelievable through pre-season, everyone was together. You could see everyone was dragging each other through and it pays off.”
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Daniel Harvie and MK Dons return to Stadium MK action on Tuesday as they take on Wycombe Wanderers in Round One of the Carabao Cup. Kick-off is at 7.45pm.
Tickets are still on sale from the Box Office and online, with discounts available for Season Ticket holders if bought in advance.
Season Ticket holders can purchase tickets at a rate of £10 adults, £8 over-65s, £8 under-25s, £5 under-21s and £1 under-14s while general sale tickets are priced at £12 adults, £10 over-65s, £10 under-25s, £6 under-21s and £1 under-14s.
To book tickets CLICK HERE, visit the Box Office at Stadium MK or call 01908 622933. Tickets will be available to buy right up until kick-off.
