‘Really poor’ – AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson bemoans late penalty decision in Bradford defeat

AFC Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson lamented the decision from referee Scott Simpson not to award his side a late penalty for a foul on James Tilley in their 1-0 defeat at home to Bradford on Saturday afternoon.

Bradford took the lead in the 62nd minute with their first shot on target when substitute Emmanuel Osadebe collected the ball on the edge of the box and slotted beyond Alex Bass.

The Dons came close to equalising minutes, but forward Omar Bugiel could only direct Jake Reeves’ corner onto Harry Lewis’ post.

Jackson brought on Aron Sasu, Ryan McLean and Charlie Lakin to change in the final 20 minutes of normal time, but the Dons were unable to find their breakthrough and saw their five-game unbeaten run come to an end.

“We should have won the game – let alone come away with nothing,” said Jackson.

“As far as the balance of play and chances, it is very frustrating.

“It’s impossible to know, but Armani Little’s chance just before they score is a pivotal moment.

“Armani would expect himself to score that and then they go down the other end and score.

“We still came on strong and had chances – one hit the inside of the post and came back out.

“Omar’s chance at the end comes off the post. On another day, we win that game – just wasn’t to be today.”

James Tilley went down inside the area in the 85th minute but referee Scott Simpson waved play on.

“It’s a penalty,” said Jackson.

“All day long, it is a penalty. He has got the wrong side of the defender. It was clumsy and into the back of him.

“Tilley doesn’t turn down opportunities on his left foot to shoot, does he?

“That tells you what you need to know.

“It’s poor from the referee. There is a lot we can blame ourselves for today in terms of our finishing, but that’s on him.

“It’s a really poor decision.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD