Aaron Ramsey, the former Arsenal star and new MK Dons manager, declared that his team will not be content with just drawing matches after their 2-2 stalemate with Oxford United. The Dons secured the point in the 95th minute, thanks to a dramatic equalizer by Ciaron Brown, following goals from Mark Harris and Charlie Goode and Aaron Collins earlier in the match. Despite the late goal, Ramsey emphasized the importance of the team's determination and the fight to the end, stating, 'I'm not here to celebrate draws and things. But in the context of things, I think it was really important for us to do that because also this has been a team that has struggled the last couple of seasons.'
The U's were without key players Stanley Mills, who has agreed a January transfer to Preston North End, and Brian De Keersmaecker. Ramsey, who has been in charge for nearly two months, has been working to instill his methods into the squad. He highlighted the team's performance in the first 20 minutes of the game and the second half, stating, 'We handled that really well and started the game really brightly. And then as soon as we got a grip on it again, second half, we were dominant again.'
Ramsey believes that the team needs to improve their consistency, aiming to maintain this fighting spirit for longer periods. 'Now it's just about adding layers and, maybe, can we go for 60 minutes next week? Can we do it for 75 minutes? Then as soon as we can get that mentality and that throughout large periods of the game, then we'll be a real dominant team that will be a threat for everybody.'
The U's will look to build on this result in their next match, an away trip to Stevenage, who finished in the play-offs last season. Fans have seen flashes of exciting play, particularly in the four friendly victories, but Ramsey is focused on the long-term development of the team.
