Northampton reach EFL Trophy semi-finals with away win at AFC Wimbledon

Northampton Town will be in the EFL Trophy semi-finals after they were 2-1 winners away at AFC Wimbledon.

Tom Eaves’ goal won the day for Kevin Nolan’s side in an all-League One match in South London, after Matty Stevens had cancelled out Jack Vale’s opener.

Victory at the Cherry Red Records Stadium means that Northampton will be in the competition’s final four, making this Northampton’s best ever run in the competition. Their previous best had been to regional semi-finals, which were equivalent to the current quarter finals.

The semi-final draw takes place tomorrow (12/02), with Northampton alongside Stockport and Doncaster as definitely in the round. The other tie is between Luton and Plymouth, but has been delayed due to Swindon Town’s exclusion. The ties are scheduled to be held in early March.

A busy opening phase had seen both sides miss chances, with Northampton even seeing a goal disallowed amid the hustle and bustle.

An opening goal would fall Northampton’s way after 38 minutes. Michael Jacobs’ flick released Vale and the striker duly beat home goalkeeper Joe McDonnell.

AFC Wimbledon equalised through Matty Stevens five minutes into the second half, with the striker on hand to turn in the rebound after an initial strike by Callum Maycock had been saved by Cobblers keeper Lee Burge.

The ultimate winner came in the 73rd minute. Jack Perkins had seen an initial strike saved, but the visitors kept the attack alive and Kyle McAdam set up substitute Eaves to finish.

Victory means Northampton have now won back-to-back matches, having won in the league at the weekend, and Kevin Nolan’s side will aim to keep up their momentum when they visit Exeter City.