Dons keep up pressure with win

Only goal difference is preventing MK Dons from occupying an automatic promotion place during the week-long break from League One.

The Dons strengthen their position by taking three points from Bristol Rovers, while second placed Charlton were handed a shock 3-1 defeat by Carlisle.

However, Charlton's superior goal difference has saved them from dropping into the play-offs but has set up a tantalising clash between the Addicks and Dons when the League resumes next weekend.

On the back of their poor display at Southampton assistant Karl Robinson was happy to see the Dons return to winning ways against Rovers with a performance he described as 'professional'.

Rovers, with ex-Dons Dominic Blizzard, Carl Regan and Mark Wright in their starting line-up, were organised in defence and did their best to frustrate the home side, making it a dreary first-half for supporters.

Of the few moments to excite the crowd Rovers' Steve Elliott's header onto the woodwork, and Jason Puncheon's free-kick which forced an awkward save from Mikkel Andersen were the highlights.

Thankfully the second-half opened up, with Wright coming into the game for the visitors to supply dangerous crosses including one that saw Jo Kuffour nod on to the woodwork.

Then, on the 71st minute, Dons were handed a breakthrough when Elliott's shove on Mathias Doumbe was spotted by the referee and Peter Leven confidently posted them ahead from the penalty spot.

But it was a dazzling right-footed strike from Puncheon that confirmed the win.

Robinson, pleased with the patience his side showed, said: "I think 'professionalism' is a good word to use, we kept our shape, conducted ourselves in the right way and moved the ball quicker in the second half.

"It's important we're patient because we've got enough match-winners in this team to do something special.

"It was a little bit of brilliance from Punch that finished it off."

The only blemish came deep in injury time when in spirit the Dons had already walked back into the dressing rooms, and Chris Lines was able to head in a consolation.

Robinson added: "It was a solid, strong performance and they're the performances that good teams put in.

"We always looked the stronger and the better team against a good Bristol Rovers side. The better we become at home, the harder it's going to get because their game plans are going to become increasingly defensive.”