'Momentum has swung' – MK Dons vs AFC Wimbledon prediction: The72

11/01/2024 05:38 AM

AFC Wimbledon travel to face MK Dons in the FA Cup on Sunday afternoon in search of their third consecutive victory over their rivals.

AFC Wimbledon have had a steady start to their League Two campaign, currently sitting 13th in the table but just three points off the play-off spots with three games in hand.

Johnnie Jackson’s men have lost their last two outings, however, 3-0 against Brighton & Hove Albion U21s in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy and 3-2 against current fourth tier table toppers Port Vale.

Despite the recent defeats, the visitors will surely be relishing the opportunity to take on their rivals once again and return to winning ways by progressing to the next round of the cup.

It will not be that straightforward, though, as MK Dons have also enjoyed a fairly solid start to their season and have won each of their last three fixtures.

Scott Lindsey’s side have recorded victories over Morecambe, Accrington Stanley and Grimsby Town – most recently taking the spoils away from home in a 3-1 triumph over the Mariners.

The hosts occupy 8th spot in the League Two table at present and will want revenge for their 3-0 defeat at the hands of their rivals earlier in the season. Both teams are bound to be well up for this encounter.

Here, a handful of our writers make their prediction for the game…

Jacob Hackett

“The tide seems to have slightly turned in terms of results in this fixture recently, and there is no reason why AFC Wimbledon can’t feel confident ahead of their second meeting this season.

“MK Dons will be desperate to ensure their winless run against their rivals does not stretch any further, and it is bound to be a game mixed with emotions.

“With little to separate the sides in the League Two table, we will surely witness a very tense clash this weekend.

“My gut feeling suggests that the visitors will take the bragging rights once again, so I am backing a narrow win for Jackson’s side.”

Prediction: MK Dons 1-2 AFC Wimbledon

James Ray

“Momentum has swung for MK Dons under Scott Lindsey and they’ll be hoping the same can be said for their record against AFC Wimbledon after back-to-back defeats against the Dons.

“Johnnie Jackson’s side are in inconsistent form though, so the hosts should be hopeful of claiming the win and a place in the FA Cup second round this weekend.

“I can see this being a closely-fought tie, but I am leaning towards a home win.”

Prediction: MK Dons 2-1 AFC Wimbledon

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