Stefan Payne sends Shrewsbury back to top with winner against AFC Wimbledon

Posted Sunday, March 25, 2018 by PA

Stefan Payne’s goal early in the second half gave 10-man Shrewsbury a 1-0 win over AFC Wimbledon as they returned to the top of Sky Bet League One.

Payne struck in the 54th minute as he fired in his 13th goal of the season in all competitions before midfielder Bryn Morris was sent off for a second bookable offence late on.

Shrewsbury were first to threaten when Shaun Whalley’s free-kick from the left was turned wide at the near post by Omar Beckles.

Andy Barcham then fired a shot straight at Craig MacGillivray for the Dons before visiting midfielder Liam Trotter forced a more impressive save from goalkeeper MacGillivray.

Shrewsbury winger Alex Rodman was next to go close when his well-struck effort from 30 yards was well dealt with by Wimbledon goalkeeper George Long.

Shrewsbury created two good chances early in the second half but Carlton Morris glanced a header wide from Rodman’s cross before Payne headed straight at Long.

Then came the decisive goal as Payne fired home from close range after Morris helped on Luke Hendrie’s cross from the right.

Lyle Taylor’s clever flick was kept out by MacGillivray as Wimbledon chased an equaliser before Shrewsbury had to play the closing stages with 10 men after Morris saw red in the 86th minute.