Development squad coach Alan Reeves couldn't fault the work rate and commitment from his side, after a 2-0 defeat at Merstham last night.
The Central League regional champions in the South West & East last season lost their second and final pre-season friendly at the Moatside against the Bostik League – Premier Division side, but for Alan it's all about being ready for when the new season starts.
"Many of the under-18s stepped up, as they did in the victory at Carshalton Athletic," explained Alan (pictured). "Credit to Robbo's lads (Academy Head of Football Mark Robinson) as they worked their socks off."
"It was a bit similar to the first-team, by all accounts, having spoken to Neal after Wycombe. We played well, but conceded poorly."
Having been goalless at the break, second-half goals from Ibrahim Fofana (51st minute) and Ryan Hall (65th minute) sealed victory for Merstham.
"I told them afterwards they are shattered and peeved that they'd lost having worked hard," added Alan.
"Some of the under-23s will now be involved in the first-team friendlies over Friday and Saturday at Aldershot and Ebbsfleet. We don't have a game for a few weeks now as some of the young lads will be off to Spain at the weekend for the under-18s tour, but we've tried to squeeze in as much fitness and preparation as possible for this level."
AFC Wimbledon: Tzanev, Urhoghide, Kalambayi, Owens, Scott (Collins), Bellikli, Nelson-Roberts, Ashley, Perana (MacNab), Carpene (Burey), Evans.