Doncaster Rovers boss expecting extra spring in step of AFC Wimbledon as they open new Plough Lane home

Construction has been completed on the new stadium and Wimbledon will mark their return to the area 29 years after departing the old Plough Lane, as they host Rovers tonight.

Moore knows the Dons will want to kick off their new era on a winning note and feels his side must avoid getting drawn into the occasion.

“In their situation you want to try to get off to the right possible start and they’ll be no different,” Moore told the Free Press.

“I imagine that they’ve been up there all week training and getting used to the new surroundings.

“It’s great for Wimbledon that they're back at Plough Lane, they’ll feel that they’re back home.

“It’s a wonderful occasion and spectacle for them. A lot of hard work has gone in over the years to see them back there and credit to them as a club.

“We play the game not the occasion. We’re the away team so we’ve just got to be professional like we always are.

“All we know is within the constraints of the game we know player for player it’s going to be tough.

“They’re fast improving under Glyn [Hodges]. They’re well organised, full of energy, disciplined. We know they cause you problems.

“I expect a tough game and also need to manage the occasion of them being back on their home patch.”

Wimbledon boast a mean defensive record having conceded no more than one goal in their last six matches.

Rovers have struggled against sides looking to shut them down this season but Moore is unsure of what to expect from the Dons as they open up their new home.

“They’re the home team and I would imagine they will want to stamp their authority on the game and go all out for the win,” he said.

“If it is and they want to stop us and set up a game plan to nullify us, there is nothing we can do about it.

“If teams want to do that then it’s up to us to find ways around it.”

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