Northampton 0-0 AFC Wimbledon
AFC Wimbledon claimed their first Sky Bet League One point of the season on the road at Northampton Town.
The Dons played out a goalless stalemate with the Cobblers at Sixfields but will be delighted to get off the mark and keep a clean sheet.
Tom Elliott was given a rest for Tuesday night’s defeat to Scunthorpe at Kingsmeadow but made an impression off the bench against the Iron.
He was rewarded for that cameo by Neal Ardley as the big man was restored to the starting XI as he partnered Lyle Taylor in attack.
Tyrone Barnett returned to to the dugout to watch on as a substitute and he had barely taken his seat when Ryan Clarke produced a magnificent early save to keep Northampton at bay.
It was difficult to watch at times in what became a poor first half at Sixfields as the blustery conditions played their part and the home side produced some steely resistance.
AFC Wimbledon lacked a bit of composure in possession and needed a few more level heads as they continue to try and find their feet at this level.
It was an improved performance in the second period from Neal Ardley’s side as they looked the more likely of the two teams to sneak a win.
Sean Kelly rattled the bar but that was the only real concern for the Cobblers keeper as he remain largely untroubled despite some better build-up play from Wimbledon.
The Dons began to start threading the needle with some intricate midfield play, which was so sorely missed in the first 45 minutes, however they survived a late scare as Matt Taylor nearly stole the points at the death.
AFC Wimbledon: Clarke, Fuller, Robinson, Charles, Kelly, Whelpdale, Bulman, Reeves, Barcham, Taylor (Barnett), Elliott (Poleon).
Subs (not used): Shea, Nightingale, Beere, Parrett, Fitzpatrick.
