AFC Wimbledon 1 Northampton 0 – Pigott goal earns win but Tzanev makes superb penalty save

Joe Pigott’s 16th goal of the season earned AFC Wimbledon a 1-0 victory over Northampton Town at Plough Lane.

The victory for the Dons, their first since February 23, moved them up to 21st in the League One table and they remain in the bottom four only on goal difference.

There was late drama as Wimbledon keeper Nik Tzanev saved Sam Hoskins’ penalty – which was literally the final kick of the match.

Pigott had not scored for nine matches but was on hand to pounce from close range after a deep corner dropped to him.

And Tzanev then produced a superb save to makes sure that Wimbledon held on to a lead whch could prove vital in the final shake up.

The late drama was at odds with a largely scrappy match. Both teams struggled to create clearcut chances although Ryan Longman had an excellent opportunity to put the home side in front on 28 minutes as he raced through but keeper Jonathan Mitchell managed to block his shot.

Luke O’Neill also had a shot blocked after cutting inside on to his left foot following some nicely-worked approach play by the Dons.

Longman tried his luck from distance but failed to find the target in a half which had six minutes of stoppage time due to an injury to one of the referee’s assistants, who was unable to continue. It saw Dennis Lowndes, a pitch volunteer for the Dons, take on the role of fourth official.

Wimbledon were the better side in that first period but the second half was even more disjointed than what had preceded it.

Peter Kioso headed wide at the back post for Northampton while Alex Woodyard and Jack Rudoni both saw shots shut down.

Wimbledon looked set for a sixth draw in seven matches until Pigott struck – and they also needed Tzanev ‘s heroics to ensure that wasn’t the case.

PHOTOS: KEITH GILLARD