Fleetwood 0 MK Dons 3

A young Fleetwood Town side, skippered by Antoni Sarcevic, more than held their own against Karl Robinson’s men.

Their contain and counter game kept the visitors at bay before the break - although both teams hit the bar.

On-loan Chelsea teen Lewis Baker rattled the woodwork for the visitors, who also went close through Will Grigg.

Fleetwood’s best opening came when Josh Morris found space down the left, crossing for Gareth Evans, who couldn’t keep his weight over the shot, smashing against the frame.

Evans was guilty of squandering Town’s best chance after the break, Sarcevic surging to the dead ball line, and pulling his cross back to the penalty spot.

His hard work deserved a better finish, Evans ballooning a dismal effort well over.

It proved costly for Town who were stung by MK, ironically, on the break.

Rob Hall set things going, £5m Spurs signing Dele Alli flicking on for Baker to finish.

Town were for a moment rattled but soon found their feet again - young gun Ashley Hunter, on his first start, and contract-hunting David Ball looking to haul the hosts back.

But the Dons quality in the final third was unquestionable and they put the game beyond reach with 15 minutes to go.

First Will Grigg, on loan from Brentford, left Stephen Jordan for dead, slotting low past Maxwell.

They two minutes later Alli showed his Premier League class, a stunning half volley to slam home Dean Lewington’s cross and seal the win.

It was for more harsh than Town deserved - the performance up to the back-to-back strikes among the strongest of recent months.

And there are clear signs the future is bright for Highbury’s youngters as boss Graham Alexander was keen to press home.

He said: He said: “There’s lot to come from that team and I’m optimistic about what I’ve seen on the pitch.

“We pressed, we got in their face, we were on the front foot and made it difficult for them.

“The goals changed the outcome and the final feeling but I still remember all the good points.

“I’ve had to pick the players up because they think their chances of sneaking in are gone now.

“But the future is bright for a lot of those young boys.”