Crawley Town will face AFC Wimbledon in a key EFL Trophy clash on Tuesday as both sides aim to strengthen their position in Southern Group B.
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Crawley currently sit third with two points from one game, while Wimbledon lead the group with three points from two fixtures.
Match Preview
Crawley Town’s return to League One after their playoff success last season has seen mixed fortunes. After a promising start, they’ve struggled, failing to win any of their last eight matches and seeing their manager, Scott Lindsey, depart for MK Dons.
New boss Robert Elliot had a tough debut, losing narrowly to Wycombe, but he’ll be hoping to secure his first win against a familiar League Two rival.
AFC Wimbledon, under Johnnie Jackson, have also seen inconsistency. While they’ve had impressive moments, like a penalty win against Ipswich Town in the EFL Cup, they come into this game on the back of two straight defeats.
The Wombles have fared well against Crawley in recent history and will hope to maintain their edge.
Team News
Crawley could still be without captain Dion Conroy, who is sidelined with injury, while Joy Mukena may also miss out. Robert Elliot may stick with a similar lineup to the one that played well despite the defeat to Wycombe.
For AFC Wimbledon, Joe Lewis is a doubt after being forced off in their loss to Salford City. Callum Maycock is expected to return to the lineup.
Predicted Lineups
Crawley Town: Wollacott; Mullarkey, Barker, Flint; Kelly, Ibrahim, Williams, Forster; Quitirna, Darcy, Swan
AFC Wimbledon: Goodman; Harbottle, Lewis, Ogundere; Neufville, Smith, Maycock, Reeves, Tilley; Bugiel, Stevens
Though both teams have struggled recently, Crawley may have the slight edge at home.
Stay tuned to SoftFootball for live updates, scores, and more from this exciting EFL Trophy encounter!