Johnnie Jackson takes positives from AFC Wimbledon draw with Stevenage

AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson was pleased with many aspects of his team’s performance in the goalless draw with Stevenage as the Dons reacted strongly to last week’s disappointing defeat by Northampton.

The hosts had chances to take the lead through Omar Bugiel and Marcus Browne in the first half but remain without a league win since beating Plymouth away.

“It was a very close and competitive game against a good side. We were the dominant team and the most likely to win, but we didn’t make their goalkeeper work hard enough or add that moment of quality to get the crucial goal,” said Jackson.

“We defended our box really well under pressure from set-pieces, long throws and direct play. We got a clean sheet, which was very pleasing.

“We needed a little more quality in the final third, taking opportunities in one-on-ones and shooting when we could. Stevenage defended well, and patience was needed to create the right openings.

“We controlled possession better than we have in the past and tried to be less predictable. Some real positives from the team after Friday’s defeat, and we want to build on that heading into the new year.”

Stevenage boss Alex Revell praised his side’s defensive display but admitted they must improve in the final third to secure more victories.

Boro endured their second successive draw and remain in the play-off places, five points shy of automatic promotion.

“We started like a team we wanted to be. We had a golden chance from a set-piece that could have opened the game, but we didn’t take it,” said Revell.

He added: “He felt his team needed to move the ball faster against a well-organised Wimbledon side.

“In the second half, we were much better, created more opportunities and got into the final third more, but it’s an area we need to keep improving. We have to make better decisions in those moments and be more clinical in front of goal.

“Our organisation is built on what we do every day. Carl Piergianni, Charlie Goode and the whole team worked incredibly hard to keep a clean sheet. Everyone contributed at different times, and that collective effort is what keeps us solid and competitive in every match.

“Picking up points away and keeping clean sheets puts us in a good place. We have to improve at home, take our chances when they come, and keep believing in the way we play.

“Defensively we were strong, but we need to create more opportunities for our goalscorers to finish and continue to grow as a team.”