View from Kingsmeadow, Volume 60: Futile November continues for Wimbledon

Terry Brown's AFC Wimbledon took time off the Football League Two trail for a couple of important cup ties. Up first was the Johnstone's Paint Trophy match with Swindon Town FC.

"I spoke to Terry earlier today and he plans to be there, but not in the dug out," said assistant manager Stuart Cash. "He wants to be back in harness and we want to see him back here.

"Depending on how things are progressing at home we may well see him back in the dug out for the Scunthorpe game on Saturday. I know his presence will give the players a boost - and the fans too."

Matt Ritchie led Swindown in goals scored with 13. However, it would be the supporting cast that would get on the feast first.

In the 68th minute, Namibian international Oliver Risser gave Swindon an early 1-0 lead.  In the 82nd minute, Rashid Yussuff off a Lee Minshull volley equalized for the Dons.

Both teams could not produce any further goals, and so the match would be decided on another penalty shootout.

In the end, it was the Phil Smith show as the Swindon goalkeeper stymied Lee Minshull, Chris Bush and Ricky Wellard with a trio of saves. In spite of Fraser Franks converting his penalty, Swindon Town advanced to the next round 3-1 on penalties.

The winless streak was sure to continue when the Dons took on Scunthorpe United in the first round of the FA Cup.

"As you know I missed the Swindon game and I've not really had a chance to absorb the DVDs yet, so Stuart and Simon are choosing the team for Saturday," Brown told reporters on Friday. "But I'll be in the dug out and I'm really looking forward to a return to a normal Saturday.

"As for the game itself, Scunthorpe have had a small dip in form lately and they'll be looking to take advantage of playing a lower league team to get back on track. But we have to treat it as a major opportunity to get ourselves back into winning ways and show again the quality and movement that we showed against Morecambe and Stevenage.

"We know we can do it and the team are feeling confident, so I'm looking forward to a close game and a great atmosphere because our fans love a cup game."

Unfortunately for Wimbledon, they would be consigned to a scoreless draw, the result of being unable to finish their chances when created. The replay will be scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 15.

AFC Wimbledon also have a match with Tooting & Mitcham United in the Surrey Senior Cup on Wednesday, Nov. 16. Kickoff at Imperial Fields is scheduled for 10:45 a.m. PT/1:45 p.m. ET.

The Dons' next Football League Two match will take place on Saturday, Nov. 19 against Swindon. Kickoff at Kingsmeadow is scheduled for 7 a.m. PT/10 a.m. ET.