Martin backs Mason to get sharper in front of goal

Joe Mason's reactionary strike to equalise on Saturday was a sign of things to come from the MK Dons striker according to manager Russell Martin.

The 29-year-old reacted quickest to Callum Brittain blocking a Lincoln clearance, diverting the ball past keeper Alex Palmer for his first goal of the season.

For Mason, who netted four goals in 14 appearances for Dons last season, it was his first 90 minutes on the pitch since the middle of January. And after missing two other good chances in the game at Stadium MK on Saturday, Martin says Mason will only get better this season.

"The goal is a great reaction to losing the ball when we were dominating in their half," said the manager. "We tried something and Mase does what he does with a good finish.

"He was excellent, really good and it was the first 90 minutes he's had. He'll only get better and stronger. He linked the play well and got in some really good positions which he does, he's a clever player.

"He took his goal fantastically. Two or three games down the line, he nicks two or three goals when he's got match sharpness and readiness which only comes with games."