Milton Keynes Dons captain Alex Gilbey has publicly apologised for the team's performance in Saturday's 5-1 home defeat to Reading. The skipper took to social media after the match to say sorry to supporters and call for a collective response from the squad.
Gilbey stated the display was embarrassing from everyone involved and that it was time for the boys to step up. He acknowledged the team's efforts have not been anywhere near good enough as a whole and asked fans to stick with the Dons, saying they need their support. Their current position of 23rd in the table is a direct result of this poor run, having accumulated just six points from the opening eight games of the season.
Substitutions fail to spark revival
Gilbey was introduced from the bench alongside Ibrahim Fullah in the 54th minute with his side already two goals down. The changes failed to stem the tide as Reading scored four more times after the double substitution. The defensive collapse was stark, with Cohen Bramall scoring an own goal and Kyreece Lisbie netting twice for the visitors. The team's overall defensive record now stands at 20 goals conceded, the worst in the division.
Collins provides late consolation
Aaron Collins scored a late consolation goal for the Dons in the 84th minute, his ninth of the season. The strike came from a cross by substitute Sam Silvera. It was a rare bright spot on an afternoon where defensive errors proved costly. Collins remains the team's top scorer, responsible for over half of the Dons' total of 15 league goals this campaign.
Attention now turns to a key local derby next Saturday when Jack Wilshere's Luton Town visit Stadium MK for an early kick-off. The Dons will be desperate to avoid a third consecutive league defeat and improve their position in the standings. The match represents a critical opportunity to halt their slide, with the team having taken only one point from the last twelve available.
More detail at miltonkeynes.co.uk
