"Defences cannot cope": Lindsey wants MK Dons to cross more to create chances

Scott Lindsey wants to see his side put in more crosses into the penalty area after his side created good chances doing just that against Barrow on Tuesday night.

While MK Dons were beaten 2-1 at Holker Street, they hit the post and had a goal ruled out from balls from wide, while several other chances came as a result.

The switch in formation recently, which the head coach believes is nominal, has afforded an extra attacker on the field, but it has been the decision to cross from deeper areas which has created more chances to score.

“At the end of the day, a formation is where you stand at kick-off,” said Lindsey. “We have so many rotations when we play, whether it's three at the back, a box or a diamond midfield, two up front, or one with two 10s, it doesn't matter because we mould into the same shape in possession.

“We're crossing from deeper areas now. Our best chances the other night came from crosses from deep - Gilbey's header off the post and Scott Hogan's goal which was just offside.

“I'm not a percentage coach, I want the ball and to create better chances, but we need to put the ball in the box a bit more. At this level, defensive units can't cope with a lot of balls coming in. If you put the ball in 20 times, you're likely to get three or four chances. We're working hard on that, and they are areas we can keep improving on.”

Not only on the front foot, Lindsey has demanded more from his players when they get in front in games too. After taking the lead in the Lake District on Tuesday, Barrow were able to equalise within a couple of minutes, something which the head coach is eager to nip in the bud.

He continued: “We've got to be more streetwise, a bit more aggressive and harder to beat, and to see a game through. We're a new team, and I know people want instant success, and so do I, but we have to be patient to make it perfect. At the moment, we're seeing a team performing but not being able to win. We've got to find a way.”