Wimbledon Hold Ipswich in Thrilling EFL Cup Tie
AFC Wimbledon fought back from a goal down to earn a draw against Ipswich Town in a captivating EFL Cup encounter at Plough Lane.
The Tractor Boys, fresh off their promotion to the Championship, started the game brightly and took the lead through Ali Al-Hamadi in the 52nd minute. The goal came after a corner kick, with Al-Hamadi heading home Conor Townsend's cross.
However, the Dons, who currently compete in League Two, were not to be denied. They equalised just six minutes later when Omar Bugiel rose highest to head in a Jake Reeves cross from a set-piece.
The momentum swung back and forth throughout the remainder of the game, with both sides creating chances to claim a winner. Matty Stevens had a glorious opportunity to put Wimbledon ahead, but his header sailed narrowly over the crossbar. At the other end, Ipswich's substitute, Liam Delap, saw his effort denied by a superb save from Joe Lewis.
The game was a testament to the fighting spirit of both teams, with the Dons, despite playing at a lower level, showing that they are capable of competing with their Championship counterparts. The draw sets up an intriguing replay at Portman Road, where the two sides will battle it out for a place in the next round of the EFL Cup.
Match Summary:
Venue: Plough Lane
Attendance: 6,000
Score: AFC Wimbledon 1-1 Ipswich Town
Goalscorers: Al-Hamadi (Ipswich), Bugiel (Wimbledon)
Key Moments:
52' Al-Hamadi heads home from a corner kick to put Ipswich ahead
58' Bugiel equalises for Wimbledon with a powerful header
74' Stevens misses a golden opportunity to put Wimbledon in front
87' Delap's shot is saved by a superb Lewis save
Reaction:
AFC Wimbledon Manager: "We were a little slow out of the blocks in the first half, but the lads showed great character to come back and get an equaliser. It was a fantastic performance against a very good Ipswich team."
Ipswich Town Manager: "We were disappointed to concede the equaliser, but it was a good test for us. We'll need to be more clinical in front of goal if we want to progress in this competition."
What's Next:
A replay will be played at Portman Road to determine which side advances to the next round of the EFL Cup. The date for the replay is yet to be confirmed.
