A mouthwatering match-up awaits this weekend as we prepare to play host to promotion-chasing Stevenage in Sky Bet League Two.
The in-form visitors are currently on a six-game unbeaten run in the league, meaning they will pose a stern test for a Wimbledon side that is also experiencing a purple patch.
Here we give you the lowdown on our next opponents:
THE GAFFER
Steve Evans was installed as the club’s new manager in March of this year and has certainly made a solid impact so far. The outspoken Glaswegian has experienced plenty of success in his managerial career to date, achieving numerous promotions with the likes of Boston United, Crawley Town and Rotherham United.
Prior to moving to Lamex Stadium, the 60-year-old had less than successful spells with Leeds United, Mansfield Town, Peterborough and Gillingham.
THE SQUAD
Luke Norris has been the most prolific out of the Stevenage squad so far, hitting an impressive nine goals, whilst Jamie Reid, Danny Rose and Jordan Roberts all sit on six.
The brother of former Wimbledon defender Ryan, Dan Sweeney is a versatile member of the team that is capable of being effective in both boxes due to his height and physicality. Meanwhile Alex Gilbey and Dan Campbell are other names to look out for.
HE’S PLAYED FOR BOTH
Jake Reeves is set to play at Plough Lane for the first time this weekend, with the popular midfielder being almost certain to receive a warm welcome after being a key part of our 2016 promotion-winning squad.
The playmaker turned out for us on 128 occasions, notching up some important goals along the way and is now re-finding his best form with Boro after mixed spells with Bradford City and Notts County.
WE’VE MET BEFORE
The last time the two sides met was all the way back in November 2018, with the Dons emerging as rampant 4-0 winners in an EFL Trophy meeting, thanks to goals from Kwesi Appiah, Anthony Wordsworth, Tyler Garratt and Alfie Egan.
Prior to that a 0-0 draw away was enough to clinch a place in the play-offs during the 2015/16 season as we eventually beat Plymouth Argyle at Wembley Stadium to secure our promotion to League One.
The game at Kingsmeadow against Stevenage was also significant that season, with a 2-1 loss proving to be the turning point that jerked our team into life.
FORM GUIDE
Boro currently sit in second place, having won 13, drawn five and lost three of their opening 21 league games. Their journey in the Carabao Cup was ended by Charlton Athletic on penalties, whilst they exited the Papa John’s Trophy yesterday at the hands of Portsmouth (3-0).
However they have fared much better in the FA Cup, with victories over Gateshead (3-2) and Kings Lynn Town (3-0) earning them a plum third round tie away to Premier League Aston Villa.
GET YOUR TICKETS FOR SATURDAY
Johnnie Jackson's men are eight league games unbeaten and the combined force of great team spirit and your unwavering support can lift us towards the play-offs.
Guarantee your place now by booking online.
HOSPITALITY
Book now for a pre-Christmas treat and make your matchday extra special.
We've got a mouthwatering menu lined up, full of festive flavour, to get you in the mood for the big game.
Take a look at our Christmas Menu.
After sampling our culinary delights, you'll get a fantastic view of the game from a padded seat high in the Cappagh (West) Stand, and hospitality packages include options to book the Gold, Silver, or Platinum Lounges.
Buy now from our Seat Unique website.
Alternatively, e-mail hospitality@afcwimbledon.ltd.uk or call Pietro Palladino on 07946 476 509
PICS: Pro Sports Images