Luton’s first game back in Sky Bet League One following back-to-back relegations saw them edge to a 1-0 win over newly-promoted AFC Wimbledon thanks to a late own goal from defender Ryan Johnson.
Matt Bloomfield’s side, who were playing in the Premier League 15 months ago, had produced barely a chance of note – against a team which at the same time were finishing 10th in the fourth tier – until the Dons defender inadvertently lifted the ball over Nathan Bishop from Nahki Wells’ forward punt and in off the crossbar with five minutes left.
It was the first time since 2019 Luton had played at this level and an immediate return to the Championship looked like being anything but straightforward as Johnnie Jackson’s visitors, fresh from victory in the League Two play-off final, contained them with relative ease for much of the match.
The opening 45 minutes saw the teams muster two shots on goal between them, both off target and one of which landed on the roof of the Oak Stand behind Wimbledon goalkeeper Bishop.
Visiting defender Joe Lewis might have been lucky to escape harsher punishment when he halted a clear run on goal for Wells, receiving just a yellow card for tripping the Hatters debutant when seemingly the last man.
Reuell Walters finally had Luton’s first shot on target after 63 minutes, drawing an outstanding one-handed save from Bishop with a drilled half-volley from range.
Wimbledon looked to have done enough to earn a point, but then came Johnson’s unfortunate wayward header to gift the Hatters victory.
