Other results shine Cobblers draw in a better light

While unimpressive for long periods of the game at Sixfields against League 2 opposition, Dons salvaged a late equaliser to force a replay back at stadium:mk next week and ensure their name remains in the hat for tonight’s (Monday) fourth round draw.

Dean Bowditch got the final touch to a scrappy opener after 12 minutes to put Dons into the lead, but two second half goals from Ricky Holmes fired Cobblers ahead. And it was nothing more than the League 2 side deserved.

Making three substitutions on the hour mark, introducing Matt Upson, Samir Carruthers and Nicky Maynard to the fray made a huge difference for the Championship outfit, and they forced an equaliser when Ben Reeves’ shot deflected off Ryan Cresswell with eight minutes to go to send the tie to a replay.

With other results, like Oxford’s win over Swansea and Eastleigh’s draw with Bolton, going against the grain, Dons boss Robinson says it shines a better light on the draw with Cobblers.

“Although people thinks we should win that game, and they’re right, the run Northampton have had at home is phenomenal,” said Robinson on Monday. “They’re a point ahead of Oxford with a game in hand, and Oxford went and beat Swansea. Bolton’s result, Shrewsbury beating Cardiff - that’s why we have the magic of the FA Cup.

“We know some of our players were below par but we’re still in the hat.

“But you saw my intent with the substitutions. Those came from a group who didn’t want to get knocked out. To be fair to the lads who came on, they had a right good go.”

The draw for the fourth round of the FA Cup takes place at 7pm on BBC 1. Dons and Northampton will share ball 9.