On May 7, 2024, Crawley Town and MK Dons will face off in the first leg of the League Two playoff semi-finals at Broadfield Stadium.
With the stakes high and a spot in the League One promotion on the line, this encounter promises an exciting clash between two ambitious sides.
Match Preview
Crawley Town secured their playoff spot on the final day of the season with a 2-0 victory over Grimsby Town, while Barrow's 1-1 draw against Mansfield Town played in their favour.
Goals from Danilo Orsi and Klaidi Lolos ensured Crawley's first-ever playoff participation after finishing seventh with 70 points.
MK Dons, on the other hand, ended their campaign in fourth place with 78 points, boasting a remarkable attacking record.
Despite their defensive lapses towards the end of the season, MK Dons scored 83 goals, ranking fifth in League Two.
Recent Form
Crawley Town's Form: WLLDDW
MK Dons' Form: WDWLWD
Head-to-Head
Crawley have historically struggled against MK Dons, winning just one of their last six meetings.
However, their last victory against MK Dons came in their most recent home encounter in August, where goals from Nicholas Tsaroulla and Danilo Orsi sealed a 2-1 win.
Team News
Crawley Town
Manager Scott Lindsey has a fully fit squad to choose from, with Kellan Gordon and Harry Forster expected to return to full training.
Ronan Darcy is likely to be recalled to the starting lineup after being benched in the final game.
Orsi and Lolos, who have netted 32 league goals combined, will lead Crawley's attack.
Predicted Starting Lineup
Addai; Wright, Conroy, Maguire; Adeyemo, Williams, L Kelly, J Kelly; Lolos, Darcy; Orsi
MK Dons
MK Dons will likely miss forward Matthew Dennis due to injury.
Joe Tomlinson returned against Sutton United and will most likely retain his place in the side.
Max Dean will probably spearhead their attack after finishing as MK Dons' top scorer with 15 goals in 29 league appearances.
Predicted Starting Lineup
Kelly; Tucker, O'Hora, Harvie; Lofthouse, Payne, Bate, Tomlinson; Wearne, Gilbey; Dean
Prediction
Given MK Dons' recent attacking prowess and Crawley's determination to secure a positive result in the home leg, this promises to be an entertaining and high-scoring affair.
Our Prediction: Crawley Town 2-2 MK Dons
Crawley 
Milton Keynes 
