John-Kymani Gordon’s dream of a second successive promotion out of League Two became closer to reality when we moved into the play-off places last night.
Last season he was part of a Carlisle side that beat Stockport in the final at Wembley. The Crystal Palace forward had his best game for the Dons so far, since his arrival on loan in January, when he made his fourth start in the 2-0 victory over Gillingham.
“I was speaking with Kofi Balmer a couple of days ago,” said JK. “Just about how crazy it would be to get promoted, what with us being at Palace together as well. It would be a special moment and we’ve just got to make it happen.
You can listen to everything John-Kymani had to say below.
“Especially for me, I got promoted last season. To do it again is only something I can dream of at this stage really!
“I also just spoke with Jake Reeves in the changing room, and he got promoted from League Two last season as well, with Stevenage. Obviously, it was a special moment for the skipper, but to do it twice in two years would be amazing!
“It’s starting to get really exciting now. We’re coming towards the end of the season and these last few games are going to be tough, but we’ve got to put in a big push so we can get into these play-offs.”
JK feels his development is being boosted by our Lebanese international forward Omar Bugiel, whose brace against the Gills leapfrogged us over the Kent club into seventh and took his personal goal tally to double figures for the campaign.
“I’m training with him nearly every day,” said JK. “I’m picking up certain things both on and off the pitch on how to be a professional.
“For me, his first one was a really good goal. It just kind of came out of nowhere really and was a great finish. He’s been excellent for the lads, and we’ll definitely need him for these last few games of the season.
“My role was a bit different for this game. I was asked to come in more, whereas I’m usually out wide getting the ball. I enjoyed it though, got on the ball a lot, tried to make things happen and it was a very good game to play in.”
He’s found it very easy to settle in and be a part of Johnnie Jackson’s squad - not only with the camaraderie that exists amongst the group, but the support he’s had from our fan base.
“To me it feels special, because I’m a local lad as well,” said JK. “I feel at home with the fans as they’ve got behind me and the lads - I just love it here, as they’re always backing us.
“It’s a funny group!” said JK. “I enjoy it here because there’s a good balance of seriousness, but also the funny side - which I like.
“Obviously, at training and in the changing room we get the jokes and stuff, but when it’s time to knuckle down, be serious and get our game faces on - we know what to do and what it’s going to take to win.”
Photos: Ian Stephen (Pro Sports Images).
