Classy MK shine to Chuk Hyde to one side
IT WAS five years ago this week that Dele Alli made his debut for MK Dons in the FA Cup first round against nonleague opposition.
While Alli shone for Tottenham Hotspur as they dazzled against Real Madrid at Wembley in midweek, his former club found themselves in more modest surroundings at Hyde United on Friday, but at least they could reflect on a job well done.
Alli’s first appearance came in a goalless draw at Cambridge City in November 2012 and while this match against a team from Evo-Stik Division One North may not be so notable in the years to come, the result provided welcome relief.
Here, it was Chuks Aneke who took centre stage for the Dons, scoring with a delightful freekick and helping to fashion another two goals as Robbie Neilson’s team brought to an end their run of six winless games.
“It was always going to be difficult but we put in a good, professional performance,” said Neilson.
“We must give credit to Hyde because they gave a good account of themselves and the atmosphere was fantastic but we’re pleased to be through to the next round.
“I thought if we could get a second goal before half-time, it would give us a bit of a cushion and Chuks showed great technique to score.
“As the game started to open up, Chuks got into the little pockets and showed what he is capable of.”
Five divisions and 107 league places separated these teams and the gap was emphasised by two telling moments of quality at either end of the first half.
Aidan Nesbitt put Milton Keynes on their way with a sumptuous curling effort from just inside the area after Aneke had linked with Alex Gilbey before Aneke planted a 20-yard freekick into the top right-hand corner with effortless precision.
By the end, the contest became a rudimentary win for Milton Keynes and on 67 minutes, after Ed Upson had swung in a corner, Ethan EbanksLandell reacted quickest to fire in after Ryan Seager’s strike had been blocked.
Upson himself then rounded things off by side-footing home with aplomb after Aneke’s fine run and cut-back.
“To be fair to MK Dons, some of their play was fantastic, cut us open at times,” said Hyde manager Darren Kelly.
“The players gave 100 per cent. You could see that we were a bit dead on our feet after about 60 minutes. I said to the players that I’m proud of them.”