AFC Wimbledon vs Oxford United @ Kingsmeadow
Saturday April 11 @ 3pm
AFC Wimbledon return to Kingsmeadow to face Oxford United on Saturday, The Dons are in real need of victory after a dismal defeat to Dagenham & Redbridge over Easter.
Despite the 4-0 battering, the Dons’ home form is the polar opposite to their troubles on the road, having lost just once at home since the turn of the year.
Manager Neal Ardley is confident he won’t see a repeat of the ‘inexcusable’ defending that led to a worrying tenth winless away trip in a row.
“Monday was a bit surreal with the way we played and the final result but we need to pick ourselves up now and the players’ mentality is that they are invincible at home,” he said.
Goalkeeper James Shea is in line to return to sure up the Dons’ defence, following a broken ankle, and is likely to be joined by experienced full-back Jack Smith.
Former Wimbledon striker Danny Hylton returns to south west London having established himself as Oxford’s top scorer since leaving, with 13 goals in League Two, level with Dons’ favourite Adebayo Akinfenwa.
This weekend’s visitors come into the clash four points behind AFC Wimbledon in 16th, but the Us have won two of their last three away games, including a shock win over third place Wycombe.
Ardley will hope to set his men up for their eight unbeaten game in front of the home crowd, a good result will line up an encouraging end to what should turn out to be Wimbledon’s best season since returning to the Football League.
The Dons’ boss said: “We need to finish the season strongly, if we can make the top-12 we can look back on the campaign with a bit of pride.”
Danger man: Danny Hylton
Star man: James Shea
Last result: Oxford United 0-0 AFC Wimbledon November 22, 2014
Picture courtesy of Grammaticus Bramlington1, with thanks
