1 min
AFC Wimbledon secured their League One status despite a 3-1 defeat to Portsmouth at Plough Lane as results elsewhere went in their favour.
Portsmouth started the game strongly with Marcus Harness working the ball into the path of Ronan Curtis in the box, but the winger was unable to control his strike.
However, it was Wimbledon who broke the deadlock through Joe Pigott in the 23rd minute, finishing well with a low strike amidst confusion as to whether he was onside or not.
The Dons lead lasted a matter of seconds though, with Portsmouth launching an attack straight from the restart and ball dropping at the feet of Curtis in the box who this time did not make any mistake.
Pompey then extended their lead twice in first-half stoppage time with two emphatic finishes from left-back Lee Brown to make it 3-1 at the interval.
The second-half was much quieter as Portsmouth comfortably controlled the game – although John Marquis failed to round the keeper whilst clear through late one with Harvey White firing wide with the subsequent follow-up.
In the end, losses for both Northampton and Rochdale meant they were relegated with Wimbledon surviving with the final game of the season, away to Lincoln City, to spare.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Lee Brown’s outside of the foot finish to make it 3-1 at the dying stages of the first-half made a Wimbledon comeback unlikely against an impressive Pompey side.
Moan of the Match
Joe Pigott was far too isolated for large periods. The Dons should have played the ball into their talisman in better areas if they were going to get something from the game.
Talking Point
With League One status now secure, will Mark Robinson experiment with a new formation to try to get the best out of the attacking players at his disposal?
Man of the Match
Lee Brown – an afternoon that will live long in the memory of the experienced left-back, scoring two incredible goals that will boost his side’s Play-Off hopes.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Charles Breakspear (Surrey) – in a game of strong passion and high stakes, the official did well to control both sides whilst making no major errors.
Atmosphere
Both benches made their voices heard throughout, whilst some fans cheered and applauded goals from their balcony around Plough Lane.
Verdict
The Dons were outclassed by a side pushing for promotion, but ultimately they won’t care as their main aim of League One survival was achieved with results elsewhere going their way.
