Neither goal was a thing of beauty, with Dons goalkeeper Nik Tzanev badly fluffing his lines to allow Jon Guthrie’s 27th-minute header to drop over the line and Ryley Towler then diverting an Ali Koiki cross into his own net midway through the second period.But it was still a deserved win for the Cobblers, who weathered an early blitz from their hosts to gradually take hold of the game, and once they were in front they didn’t really look like surrendering it.Here are the player ratings from the Cherry Red Records Stadium, or Plough Lane if you prefer...
5. Ali Koiki
Can still switch off defensively, and got his seemingly weekly rocket from the manager on the sidelines to keep him on his toes, but Koiki offers so much positively. Defended well on the whole, and got forward to claim an assist for the own goal ...7 Photo: Pete Norton
6. Jack Sowerby
One early loose pass aside, Sowerby barely put a foot wrong at the heart of the town midfield, breaking up play, keeping things simple and sparking counter-attacks. Really good performance ...7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
7. Shaun McWilliams
McWilliams was looking like he was in the mood to dominate proceedings until his evening was cut short by injury after just 17 minutes. Jon Brady will be keeping everything crossed it is nothing serious ... 6.5 Photo: Pete Norton
8. Marc Leonard
Initially handed a more advanced role just behind the front three, things were looking promising until he had to drop back following McWilliams' injury. Just went on to enjoy a cracking game alongside Sowerby. Oozes class ...8 Photo: Pete Norton