By Martin Atherton
MK Dons played out an entertaining, though perhaps frustrating, home draw at Sunderland, overseeing a 2-2 draw that moves them further away from the drop zone.
Lee Johnson’s side had initially taken the lead through Charlie Wyke, but goals from Joe Mason and Cameron Jerome saw the Dons in front before Luke O’Nien levelled in the second half.
Wyke opened the scoring against the run of play, being found in complete space on the right-hand side of the box before firing past Fisher. 0-1.
But the lead didn’t last long at all, as confusion in the box – thanks to some great work from Jerome – allowed Mason to tap home into an empty goal and level the scoring. 1-1.
And it was that man Jerome who then gave the Dons the lead after, latching onto an excellent cross by Matt O’Riley to touch past Burge in the Black Cats’ net. 2-1!!
The second half was all Sunderland’s way, though, as the away side looked to capitalise on a Dons side sitting deep against a strong opposition.
Not long after the break former Wycombe fan Luke O’Nien levelled the scoring, firing past Fisher after the ball had fallen loose to him on the box. 2-2.
It then looked like the hosts’ had won themselves a penalty as a Dons player handled the ball in the box, but referee Tom Nield waved away claims and showed Leadbitter a booking for his troubles.
O’Nien then arguably should have seen a second yellow – blocking off Laird and stopping a Dons attack – but Nield once again turned away appeals.
Fisher was forced into one more last minute save, but the Black Cats were unable to find a way past a resolute MK Dons defence. FT 2-2.
Maybe a frustrating afternoon on some accounts, but a great result considering the circumstances in my opinion.
Sunderland have been a superb side this season away from home – as stated on the brilliant MK1 Podcast prior to the game – and there’s no shame in failing to beat them.
Laird, in my opinion, needs a rest – I don’t think he’s there just yet, and it might be worth sticking Sorinola in to add some value for summer’s window.
Rochdale away on Tuesday presents a far different game – one that, I think, we should be winning – but also a re-debut chance for Will Grigg…. Exciting!
Come on You Dons!
