AFC Wimbledon were the on the wrong side of a five-goal scoreline against Sheffield United.

How did it happen - and what did we glean? Try this.

Dons grit is pivotal to survival

Despite an undoubted gulf in class, AFC were very much in the game and Poleon's header and Elliot's strike kept them in the game even when the visitors should have been out of sight.

The continued running and endless challenges will be an essential trait if they are to survive in England's third tier this term despite the odds.

On the ball: Jake Reeves

Give the ball to Jake Reeves

The central midfielder was the best man in blue by a distance and his ability to play a pass were key in putting Neal Ardley's men in the right areas.

The game, especially in the early and latter stages was played at a frantic pace but the young midfielder brought a sense of calm, composure and thought to the home side's attack

Lyle Taylor's return a bonus

The star man has been out since an injury sustained at Rochdale two weeks ago kept him out but he returned as a sub on the hour mark.

Taylor not only brings goals but his ability to get something out of nothing and simply lift his team with his presence which is an aspect they will need if they are to grind out points heading in Autumn.

He will no doubt improve as he regains match fitness and will chip in with a fair share of goals.

It's that easy: Dominic Poleon soaks in the applause

Dominic Poleon knows the way to goal

The ex-Leeds United man must have loved scoring against Sheffield United given the White Rose rivalry between the clubs.

His smart header was his fourth goal in three games following a late winner last week and his double in the cup. Given Taylor's absence, Poleon has accepted the mantle as the Dons leading goal getter and stepped up sufficiently.

AFC defence - and its lack of pace

For all their experience at the back in Paul Robinson and Barry Fuller, Dons are not the quickest, and a Sheffield attack possessed plenty of pace.

Both Matt Done and Billy Sharp were able to run in behind with shooting boots on. Their side could have been out of sight by the time Tom Elliott pulled one back to set up a nail biting finale.