AFC Wimbledon's defensive record is a growing concern for supporters ahead of Saturday's trip to Cambridge United. The Dons have conceded an average of 1.43 goals per match in a recent run of games, failing to keep a single clean sheet.
That vulnerability at the back comes despite a solid league position. Wimbledon currently sit seventh in League One with 11 points from seven games, a record built on a recent run of three wins, one draw and one defeat. The team's form guide reads DWWLW, with the most recent result a goalless draw against Milton Keynes Dons. The team's next fixture is against Cambridge United at the Abbey Stadium on Saturday.
While the points return is positive, the underlying numbers suggest a fragility. The team's average goal differential stands at -0.3, having scored 0.71 goals per game while conceding nearly double that amount. A shots on target percentage of 42% and a save rate of 63% indicate room for improvement at both ends of the pitch. The squad's disciplinary record shows 76 fouls committed, while opponents have committed 88 against them. In their recent run, the team has conceded a goal every 63 minutes on average.
This defensive trend will be tested immediately against a Cambridge side positioned fifth in the table. The Dons will need to tighten up to maintain their top-half standing. The club's current standings show they are four points behind leaders Bradford City. Myles Hippolyte, the team's top scorer with three goals this season, will be key to providing the attacking threat needed to relieve pressure.
The focus now shifts entirely to the Abbey Stadium this weekend. A positive result there would provide a significant boost and help solidify Wimbledon's promising start to the campaign.
The report in full is at m.espn.com
