Post-match reaction from the manager
Neal Ardley said there was a sense of disappointment among the players after a performance that could have earned more than just a point at Cambridge.
Speaking during an interview for Dons Player, Neal Ardley was delighted with his side’s overall display at the R Costings Abbey Stadium, but he felt the Dons perhaps warranted more than a point for their performance.
“Everyone in the dressing room is disappointed,” said Neal. “I thought that in open play we were much the better team. They carried a threat from set-pieces, but I was delighted with our boys. It was a high level of performance. I cannot fault them and the only thing I was disappointed with is that we did not get a goal from one of the numerous great positions that we got ourselves in. I thought we were excellent.
“Cambridge had a 15-20 minute spell in the first half when they threatened from set-pieces and the same in the second half, but we were much better than them all around the park. Some of our play in the first half was exceptional. Alfie Potter and Jack Smith carved them open on the left flank time and time again. It was just our final ball and finishing that we were lacking.”
In a game that will be most remembered for two penalties being saved on the night, Neal felt that referee Gavin Ward should have awarded another when a shot from Jake Reeves appeared to be handled in the area.
However, the Wimbledon manager highlighted plenty of positives at Cambridge, including the performance of academy product Tom Beere, who was handed only his second League 2 start.
“Tom came in at right midfield and had an excellent game,” added Neal. “He got into some great positions. In the long-term I think Tom is going to be a better central midfielder, but he can certainly play this role well. Tom has come into a good team with good players. I thought Alfie Potter was outstanding tonight. Sammy Moore came back in, he was excellent and so too was Jake Reeves.”
Dons Player subscribers can now watch the full video interview with Neal Ardley.