Disappointment for Dons as fans are locked out again

After just three games back at Stadium MK, Dons supporters will have to go back to their TV screens to watch their team as Milton Keynes enters Tier 3 this weekend.

Around 2,000 fans were able to return to the stadium to watch Dons' 6-0 win over Norwich City U21s, before back-to-back 1-1 draws with Burton Albion and Peterborough United.

The change in Buckinghamshire though means fans will not be attending the clash with Bristol Rovers on Boxing Day - Paul Tisdale's return to the club after being sacked last November - or for future games until the Covid-19 threat level changes.

Dons boss Russell Martin said he understood the importance of containing the virus spread, but also of his disappointment about the decision to prevent fans from coming to games.

He said: "I completely understand we have to contain the virus and be safe but fans have been socially distanced, outside, wearing masks, clubs are going about the protocols – I don't understand how high that threat is really.

"I think it has shown how important football is to people, the community. We've gone into Tier 3 at a difficult period, over Christmas, so I feel for the fans. I'm disappointed for us and them that they're not going to be here because they've made a big difference to us. It's tough.

"I'm not condemning anyone, and I completely understand we have to contain this threat, but when you weigh up the dangers of being at a match, socially-distanced, with a mask on, outdoors, I'm not sure the threat is that high. But I'm not a scientist, I'm not a medical officer, so I don't know that. I'm just talking out of disappointment and frustration for our fans."