How AFC Wimbledon's solid defence led to Play-Off success

AFC Wimbledon's remarkable season culminated in victory at Wembley last Monday as they secured a long-awaited return to Sky Bet League One via the Play-Offs.

The Wombles battled through formidable challenges en route to the National Stadium after clinching a fifth-place finish in League Two.

They nullified Notts County over two legs before remaining strong to edge out Walsall 1-0 in the Final to get their hands on the trophy.

While prolific frontman Matty Stevens will rightly receive plaudits for his 17-goal haul in 49 games this season, AFC Wimbledon's solid defensive structure has been equally instrumental in their success.

Below, we've taken a closer look at their journey to success under manager Johnnie Jackson...

Jackson's rebuild

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When Johnnie Jackson first took the reins at Plough Lane back in May 2022, there was only one thing on his mind: a return to the third tier.

His appointment was widely viewed as a coup at the time, given he'd stepped down from the division above where he'd previously managed Charlton Athletic.

Wimbledon initially struggled to adapt to life in League Two and narrowly avoided relegation from the EFL with a 21st-place finish in their first season back in the fourth tier.

But rather than panic, the Club embarked on a strategic rebuild in the summer, an overhaul that formed the bedrock of this year's promotion-winning side.

Key acquisitions such as Josh Neufville, Ryan Johnson and Omar Bugiel were among those to arrive on free transfers, while defensive stalwart Joe Lewis also bolstered the backline.

Fan favourite Jake Reeves also returned for a third stint to further strengthen the squad's spine.

It laid the perfect foundation for the future, with the Dons climbing to a 10th-place finish in 2023/24 before clinching a Play-Off place and a Wembley success in 2024/25. Mission complete.

Owen Goodman's golden touch

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A strong presence between the sticks is a familiar theme with every promotion-winning side, and for AFC Wimbledon, it's been no different.

Owen Goodman was arguably their standout performer of the campaign, having spent the season on loan from Premier League side Crystal Palace.

The 21-year-old firmly made his mark, with 45 appearances and 21 clean sheets, netting him the Sky Bet League Two Golden Glove.

He remained strong throughout the Wombles' Play-Off campaign, keeping both Notts County and Walsall off the scoresheet, with his tally of goals conceded in the league campaign set at just 33.

Goodman's impressive campaign also earned him a deserved spot in the League Two Team of the Season at the EFL Awards back in April.

And while he will now return to his parent Club, Palace, it remains to be seen whether another loan spell in the EFL, and the continuation of his successful development, is on the cards for next season.

Solid foundations key to survival

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As the Wombles look ahead to life in League One next season, staying up will be the primary objective, and their solid defensive structure will be key to achieving it.

If they are unable to persuade Goodman to remain at Plough Lane for the new campaign, then first on boss Jackson's list of priorities will be to recruit a goalkeeper who is just as good.

While that will be a difficult ask, it's crucial, as clean sheets will be just as important as goals if AFC Wimbledon are to avoid the bottom four.

All eyes will be on the fixture release day later this month as they look to map out their route to survival, with the hard work starting now.