Thomas-Asante makes an impression on Dons' tour

Brandon Thomas-Asante netted his third goal in as many games in a 3-3 draw with Tranmere Rovers on Wednesday as MK Dons concluded their pre-season tour of Ireland.
Brandon Thomas-Asante (Pic: Lee Scriven)Brandon Thomas-Asante (Pic: Lee Scriven)
Brandon Thomas-Asante (Pic: Lee Scriven)

The 17-year-old netted 31 minutes, after goals from Connor Furlong and George Baldock had twice seen Dons twice take the lead, only to be pegged back by Rovers.

Thomas-Asante wasn’t part of the initial party to fly to Dublin last week, but flew out to the Emerald Isle on Monday, just hours before he took to the pitch to play St James’s Gate.

He was a second half substitute for Karl Robinson’s side in that game, but took just five minutes to open his pre-season account, netting from a tight angle.

Brandon Thomas-Asante (Pic: Lee Scriven)Brandon Thomas-Asante (Pic: Lee Scriven)
Brandon Thomas-Asante (Pic: Lee Scriven)

“It’s a really good feeling,” he said afterwards. “I’m thankful for the opportunity. I just had to concentrate on the match while I was flying here, and make it count. I did myself a bit of justice, but I think I’ve still got a lot to do.”

The young striker was given half an hour the following night against Drogheda, and got himself on the scoresheet again when, six minutes from time, he broke clear and beat the keeper to complete a 3-1 win.

And when he was handed a start on Wednesday against Tranmere, he took his opportunity again, this time latching onto Samir Carruthers’ pass to make it 3-2 after 31 minutes.

“I just have to keep trying to do my best and push on,” Thomas-Asante added. “If I can build momentum than anything is possible.

“It has been a good experience playing with the first team, and hopefully I’ll get more chances.”