Smith strike and Bishop saves earn AFC Wimbledon victory over Blackpool

AFC Wimbledon beat Blackpool 1-0 at the Cherry Red Records Stadium on Saturday, with Alistair Smith's first-half goal and a series of Nathan Bishop saves securing the League One points. The Guardian reported that the result ended Wimbledon's 10-match winless run in all competitions. The hosts protected their narrow lead through a late spell of Blackpool pressure.

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According to Wimbledon's official match report, Johnnie Jackson made three changes, giving Bishop his first league start in place of Joe Bursik. Andy Yiadom and Callum Maycock also came into the side, replacing Myles Hippolyte and Ryan Johnson. Blackpool changed five players after illness affected their squad, with goalkeeper Luke Southwood making his debut for the visitors.

Blackpool threatened before Wimbledon scored. Sky Sports reported that Dale Taylor had an early effort blocked and Bishop kept out Hayden Coulson's header in the 11th minute. Smith then struck from outside the penalty area to put Wimbledon ahead. The club's account credited James Tilley with setting up the midfielder, whose finish was his first goal of the season.

Wimbledon had further opportunities before the interval without extending their advantage. Maycock's attempt from a Tilley cross was held by Southwood, while Yiadom fired wide from distance, according to the club report. After half-time, Bishop saved from substitute Dion Charles. Blackpool also threatened through CJ Hamilton, whose header took a deflection and went over the bar as the visitors searched for an equaliser.

Sky Sports reported that Wimbledon missed a chance to settle the contest in the 80th minute when an Albie Morgan pass sent Jayden Stockley through, only for the striker's first touch to let him down. Bishop subsequently denied Morgan and Wimbledon survived a stoppage-time scramble. Their own report described a late double save that kept out Jordan Williams.

The final whistle did not end the confrontation. Sky Sports reported that Stockley received a second booking and was sent off as the teams clashed after the match. Wimbledon nevertheless retained all three points, with their official report listing Leyton Orient away as their next fixture.