Two minute guide to: AFC Wimbledon
We take a look ahead to Tuesday night’s League Two opponents – AFC Wimbledon – with another of OVF’s brief two minute guides to the opposition.
Man in charge
Former Wimbledon star Neal Ardley has been in charge for 20 games, winning 5, drawing 7 and losing 8.
Last time we met
It was just twelve days ago that the two sides met in a televised encounter. Wimbledon took a 2-0 lead thanks to two goals from leading scorer Jack Midson. But Vale debutant Daniel Jones netted just before the break and Vale pulled level when Tom Pope commando-rolled past keeper Neil Sullivan’s challenge and got to his feet to roll in his 27th goal of the season.
Overall record
We naturally count encounters between Port Vale and Wimbledon. So… the two sides have met thirteen times. Vale have won three times, Wimbledon have won nine and there has been one draw. However, Wimbledon’s away record is pretty decent with two wins and a draw in their last three away games.
Match Essentials
Venue:
Vale Park
Kick-off:
7:45pm
Vale form:
L-W-W-D-W
Wimbledon form:
W-W-D-D-D
Connections
Vale legend Robbie Earle is also one of Wimbledon’s favourite sons, while Wimbledon’s purchase of Gareth Ainsworth remains Vale’s record sale. Other players to appear for both sides include Dean Holdsworth, Wayne Gray, Andy Clarke, Aidan Newhouse and Brian Bithell.
Selected links:
Team news
Micky Adams has hinted at changes but there’s every chance that Vale will line-up unchanged. Vale’s squad has been boosted by the return of Louis Dodds (pictured), Joe Davis and Rob Taylor and the trio are in contention for a place on the bench.
Wimbledon midfielder Harry Pell, who was linked to Vale earlier in the season, serves a two-game ban after picking up his 10th booking. Jonathan Meades is away on Wales U21 duty. Centre-half Alan Bennett could make his debut for the Dons.
Pre-match chat
“It’s going to be tough because they’re scrapping for their lives, so we’ll have to be at the top of our game.”
– Vale defender Daniel Jones
“Tonight is going to be another difficult game. They have forecast high winds and it won’t be pretty by any means but in this time of the season it is about getting three points on the board.”
– Vale assistant manager Mark Grew
“It is a big pitch at Port Vale and they are a very good team. It is going to be tough as not many teams have come away from their place with a positive result this season.”
– AFC Wimbledon manager Neal Ardley
One more thing…
The Valiants have reduced ticket prices for this game which could see the side move four points clear at the top of the table.