Glyn Hodges has called on his players to make scoring from set piece situations a habit after Terell Thomas headed home a corner emphatically in the EFL Trophy.
Terell’s soaring header proved to be the difference against Charlton and it’s something that our manager wants to see replicated on regular occasions this season.
Glyn said: “With our response: the way we created chances, and kept their goalkeeper busy, it was only a matter of time before one of the centre halves headed one in and Terell got it. Hopefully, that’s the first of many because we’ve got great technicians on these set pieces, and it’s a weapon we need to improve upon.
“We worked yesterday on how we were going to play. I wanted the boys to play with confidence and I felt they did that. Also, I can’t remember the last time we came behind and won. This date was pencilled in for a pre-season game, but it was a really competitive game and we enjoyed it. The boys are really happy.
“It was really pleasing that a lot of stuff came together and towards the end it looked like the boys were enjoying the experience. I think they enjoyed the second-half a bit more than the first, but I felt we were equally as good in each half.”
It was a proud night for 18-year-old Archie Procter, who came on for his Dons debut after rising through the academy ranks. Glyn was pleased to give him an opportunity and he was very impressed with new signings Ethan Chislett and Ryan Longman on their debuts.
“We had just gone 2-1 up with half an hour to go and I just thought we will put Archie on,” added Glyn. "He’s actually buzzing in there, so it’s a good day for him. You never forget your debut, but it’s just a shame that there were no fans here to see it. Your parents and your family never forget these days, but he will probably remember it for different reasons.
“Ethan Chislett showed a glimpse of what he’s going to be for us. He’s a great footballer and he takes up really dangerous positions. His work-rate is brilliant. Ryan Longman will give us an extra dimension: he’s big and strong, quick and direct, so that’s another strength we can use.”
It was a significant night too for Adam Roscrow, who scored his first Wimbledon goal in a competitive match and the manager believes it will do wonders for his morale.
Glyn said: “His confidence is through the roof because he was trying overhead kicks and all the party tricks! It has done him the world of good and he worked well up there, so there’s probably going to be a selection headache coming - I’m pleased about that.”
Pic: Matt Redman, Pro Sports Images.
Click on the link below to watch Glyn’s full post-match reaction.