Right-back on his first Dons goal
Barry Fuller said that helping the Dons keep a clean sheet meant more to him than his first goal in seven years – and he’s called for more of the same battling qualities against York City tomorrow night.
Speaking to WDON commentator Rob Cornell after his first Wimbledon goal on Saturday, Fuller (pictured celebrating his winning goal) said: “We’ve not kept enough clean sheets this season as a team, but it’s not just about the back four and the goalkeeper. We know that if we can be strong at the back, then we will always score goals at the other end. It’s going to be another tough battle on Tuesday. We know what they’re all about and our home form has been really good so hopefully we can get the right result and go through to play Wycombe in the next round.
“For my goal it seemed like the ball took an age to come down and you never know what will happen on your left foot! I connected well and thankfully it went in. I did not go as mad as I thought I would. I thought I would be doing a lap of the pitch after scoring my first goal in seven years. But I just had to keep my concentration and I’m probably happier about helping the team to keep a clean sheet.”
Fuller felt that Wimbledon’s fast start out of the blocks was the key to victory on Saturday.
“When we play at a high tempo we make it difficult for teams and we started well in the first 15 minutes,” added Fuller. “Then it turned into a bit of a derby battle and it got a bit aggressive near the end because they wanted to get a result. I don’t think Dagenham’s league position reflects their quality. They have changed their style with this manager and are a good side. We had to really dig in.
“We know that if George Porter is on his game then he can be unplayable at times. You have to get tight to him and not let him settle. In the tunnel before the game he knew what I would be like in the game, but he was up for the battle too. We wish him well for the rest of this season, but we’re just happy with the three points.”
The above photograph was taken by Paul Willatts.
The full video interview with Barry Fuller appeared on Dons Player yesterday and extended match highlights are now on our premium channel.