Post-match reaction from the manager
Neal Ardley said his side’s performance was “exceptional” at times after the Dons made it three wins in succession by beating Hartlepool United today.
Speaking during an interview for Dons Player, the manager was delighted with the performance of his players.
“It was probably as complete a performance as we have produced,” said Neal. “I think the gulf between the two sides on the day was huge. In the first 10 minutes we were a little bit flat and then we really got going. We started to control the game and some of the play was exceptional. When you consider that we had a couple of exciting wingers out with Sean Rigg and Andy Barcham injured, some of our attacking play was really good.
“We had a chance to go four or five up in the second half, but we ended up still just 2-0 up with 10 minutes to go, which is a dangerous score line. I think that 2-0 flattered them. We had 17 attempts on goal and they only had one.
“I am really pleased with the boys, they are fighting for each other. People thought with the form of the two sides that it may be easy, but it never turns out that way. The players have all got to do their jobs well and I thought they did that. We looked solid at the back, our midfield controlled the game, and every one of the forward players was a threat.”
Neal praised the performance of Callum Kennedy, who had his first competitive Wimbledon goal to celebrate in his first start since the death of his father earlier this season.
“It is a hard position to play on the left or right side of midfield,” Neal added. “I should know because I played both wide midfield and full-back. We worked with Callum on his positioning during the week so that he could effect the game and not be too deep. Having Jon Meades behind him was a help because he is so composed. I would have liked Callum to have taken a few more risks in the final third, rather than just cross the ball, but his energy and work-rate for the team was very good. Callum obviously enjoyed scoring and his salute to up above was one for his Dad.”
The full interview with Neal Ardley is now on Dons Player and we will feature an interview with Lyle Taylor, plus more reaction on our premium channel.