JOHNNIE Jackson heaped praise on Connor Evans for his goal and display in yesterday’s 3-1 win at Walsall.
The midfielder joined AFC Wimbledon on loan for remainder of the campaign from Stockport earlier this month and struck his first goal for his new club to open the scoring early on at the Bescot.
Walsall were reduced to 10 men before the break after Taylor Allen saw red for a nasty looking challenge on Omar Bugiel.
Armani Little’s second half penalty was saved by Owen Evans and Wimbledon were made to rue the miss shortly afterwards as Freddie Draper levelled for the hosts.
Wimbledon’s advantage was restored just after the hour courtesy of Jack Currie before Ali Al-Hamadi added a third with seven minutes remaining to give Jackson’s side their first win in September.
And what makes the result even more impressive is it came despite top scorer James Tilley being absent through injury, something Evans was able to take full advantage of.
Jackson told afcwimbledon.co.uk: “He was outstanding. I brought him to the club because I know he’s got that quality.
“I’ve been watching him for a long time. When the opportunity came to bring him in, we jumped at it.
“He’s had to bide his time because the lads have been playing so well – Tills who didn’t play today and Josh (Neufville) on the other side.
“Connor was brilliant in the friendly during the week, he put the work in, scored a goal and looked really sharp.
“With Tilley being out, it was the perfect opportunity to bring him in.”
Jackson was also delighted to see Al-Hamadi get off the mark for the campaign after a frustrating time in front of goal for the Iraqi striker.
The Dons boss said: “I’ve heard the way that he talks, he always says that he’s built differently and I believe that.
“I don’t think he’s been affected at all by not scoring the goals.
“He’s playing so well for the team, he’s causing headaches for everyone he plays against, it was only a matter of time before he scored.
“The goal was all his own doing really, he’s been nice and positive, it was a great finish on his left foot.
“Someone that good will always turn it around.
“He’s never panicked, he’s kept doing what he does, he’s been a menace for the opposition and today he’s got his goal.
“We’re really pleased for him.”
Wimbledon are back at Plough Lane next Saturday to face Tranmere. Click here for ticket information.
