Dons beaten in Final Third Development League
Tom Beere was tonight back in a Wimbledon shirt after the end of his successful loan spell at Hampton & Richmond, but his return failed to prevent defeat in the Final Third Development League.
The Dons were beaten 1-0 against Gillingham at Merstham FC with an improved second-half performance not enough to salvage a draw.
Coach Alan Reeves said his side paid the price for a below-par first half display with a goal from Bradley Stevenson earning victory for Gills.
“The first-half was very disappointing from us,” said Alan. “We did not compete or play as a team. It was not the best of games and it should really have ended 0-0, but we conceded a sloppy goal. We were better in the second-half and had chances to equalise, but we did not do enough overall.”
Alan was impressed with the performance of Beere (pictured), who played for an hour after helping Hampton & Richmond to the Ryman Premier League title on Saturday.
Another positive was a return for Egli Kaja, who made two first-team appearances earlier this season, before suffering an injury-hit spell.
The Dons came close in the first-half through Alfie Egan, who had a fine effort well saved. Neset Bellikli twice threatened to strike an equaliser, firstly when his shot was deflected wide. Then in the final minutes he fired against the woodwork with a well-struck free-kick.
AFC Wimbledon conclude the Final Third Development campaign at Southend next Tuesday with an opportunity to finish second in the South Division after missing out on the chance to finish top.