AFC Wimbledon boss bursting with pride in the face of FA Cup disappointment (From Sutton Guardian)

Ardley holds his head up high after Dons' so near, and yet so far FA Cup adventure

6:17pm Sunday 2nd December 2012 in Sport By Tim Ashton

AFC Wimbledon boss Neal Ardley spoke of his pride in his players after their heartbreaking exit from the FA Cup.

Jack Midson’s excellent header was not enough as MK stole a place in the third round with a last-gasp freak goal and a 2-1 win.

Ardley said: “I have nothing but pride. We set out a game plan and the players stuck to it – we were worried they might revert to type but they didn’t.

“Everything single player carried their instructions out to a man. We were inches away from going 2-1 up, and then we’re hit by a lucky goal.”

He added: “The fans were excellent and when Jack scored I think we all enjoyed the moment, if you cannot enjoy those moments, then you might as well stop playing.

“We wanted to ask MK the question – can you break us down? As far as the game plan went it went well, we needed a bit of luck, but we didn’t get.

“Today was a celebration of how far this club has come.”