AFC Wimbledon has made changes to their team lineup for their upcoming match against Carlisle United in League Two. Following a 1-0 victory over Salford, James Tilley, Callum Maycock, and Matty Stevens have been included in the starting 11 while Jake Reeves, Joe Pigott, and James Furlong have been left out.
This match is significant for Wimbledon as they are playing at home for the first time since the pitch and stadium were damaged due to flooding caused by the River Wandle bursting, an event that has not occurred since 1968. The stadium had to undergo extensive repairs, including pumping around 100,000 litres of water out and laying a replacement section of the pitch. The repairs also involved fixing the attenuation tank beneath the pitch.
The home team’s lineup for the match includes Goodman, Tilley, Ball, Ogundere, Harbottle, Neufville, Maycock, Hippolyte, Smith, Bugiel, and Stevens, with Ward, Biler, Furlong, O’Toole, Johnson, Kelly, and Pigott on the bench. On the other hand, Carlisle United will be fielding Lewis, Davies, Harper, Lavelle, Wyke, Biggins, Vela, Neal, Mellish, Sadi, and Barclay, with Breeze, Guy, Charters, Ellis, Robinson, Dudik, and Armstrong available as substitutes.
The last time Wimbledon played at home was on September 14, when they secured a 3-0 win over rivals Milton Keynes. Now, they are looking to continue their winning streak in front of their home crowd after a long absence.
This match is not just about the game itself, but also about the resilience and determination shown by the club in overcoming the challenges posed by the flood damage. The fans are eager to support their team and witness the first home game in months, hoping for another memorable victory.
As both teams take to the pitch, the atmosphere is electric with anticipation and excitement. The players are ready to give their all and put on a great show for the fans who have been eagerly waiting for this moment. It’s a testament to the spirit of football and the unity it brings to communities, especially in the face of adversity.
