Warne says AFC Wimbledon clash could be a ‘fitting game’ for first win
The Dons are still searching for their first win this season
MK Dons manager Paul Warne says Wednesday evening’s clash with AFC Wimbledon is a “fitting game” for his side to get their first win of the season.
The Dons travel to Plough Lane to face their bitter rivals, having drawn five and lost one of their opening six League One games.
Warne admits the start has been below expectations, with MK Dons sitting on five points, but believes his side have shown enough in their performances to suggest a first victory is not far away.
“I do feel like we’ve been better than our points tally, but the points tally also doesn’t lie,” Warne said.
The Dons boss pointed to the fine margins that have gone against his side so far, while also admitting they need to improve in key areas — particularly when it comes to seeing games out.
Warne says he has spoken to his players about the significance of the meeting with AFC Wimbledon and believes the occasion should provide an extra motivation.
“I’m well aware of the importance for both sets of fans,” he said. “But fundamentally it’s still a game of football that we need to win.”
The MK Dons manager says his players have been told to embrace the occasion while maintaining their discipline and composure.
He also believes the atmosphere at Plough Lane can make a difference, with a strong travelling support expected to be behind his side.
“The away fans are even more essential in these sort of environments,” Warne said.
“You don’t want to feel as a player it’s you against the world. You want to feel like everything that you’re trying to do is helping the fans enjoy it, but you hear their noise, you hear them sing, you hear them clap.”
Warne says the support could provide his players with an extra lift during difficult moments of the game.
He is also expecting an intense contest, with the Dons boss stressing the importance of playing with both passion and control.
“If we can play at a tempo and be brave on the ball, you give yourself a chance to win,” he said.