Wycombe manager Gareth Ainsworth believes Adebayo Akinfenwa is in ‘better shape’ this season than last year, following his important goal in Wanderers’ 1-1 draw away at AFC Wimbledon.
The 39-year-old came off the bench to score the equaliser in the last 10 minutes against his former club, which has kept the Chairboys in the play-off places with two league matches of the season remaining.
62 - MASSIVE CHANCE FOR AKINFENWA! Obita's pinpoint cross is met by Bayo but he crashes it against the bar. So close! #Chairboys #AFCW
— 🏴 James Richings 🇲🇾 (@James_BFP) April 18, 2022
🔵🟡 1-0 🪑
During his 35 minute spell on the pitch, Akinfenwa, who replaced Daryl Horgan, was influential in Wanderers’ performance, as the Dons backline struggled to contain his physical presence.
The Beast had earlier crashed a header against the crossbar and had several other attempts blocked.
80 - GGOOOOOAAALLL!!!!!!!!! @daRealAkinfenwa HAS DONE IT AGAINST HIS OLD CLUB!!!!! GAME ONE!#Chairboys #AFCW
— 🏴 James Richings 🇲🇾 (@James_BFP) April 18, 2022
🔵🟡 1-1 🪑
Speaking after the 1-1 draw at Plough Lane on Easter Monday, Ainsworth said: “We had a real long chat yesterday and I think he is in better shape than what he was in the Championship last year.
“This is because Uche Ikpeazu was injured for so long last season that Bayo had to play so much at the start of the season, we really wrecked his body that he couldn’t recover.
“This season, he’s had almost cameo roles and we had a real solid chat about what he can do from now to the end of the season and how we can impact this team, and goals like today which saw both substitutes combined was a nice moment for me.
READ MORE: Recognise him? Former Wycombe striker makes surprise appearance for Non League side
FT: AFC Wimbledon 1-1 Wycombe Wanderers.
— 🏴 James Richings 🇲🇾 (@James_BFP) April 18, 2022
A late @daRealAkinfenwa header rescues the #Chairboys a point at a heated Plough Lane. Wanderers remain in the play-offs.
“I do think though however that we could have had one or two more, as we snatched the shots at the final moments.
“We could have been better today but I got some stuff wrong as well and we’re in it together.
“So let’s try and beat Sheffield Wednesday at home next weekend.”
The draw away in London means Wycombe are now unbeaten in 10 league matches.
This is their best run of form since the 2016/17 season.
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