Kyran Lofthouse nets winner as Burton edge relegation rivals AFC Wimbledon

Kyran Lofthouse netted the winner as Burton claimed a vital 1-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon as the battle for League One safety intensified.

Albion leapfrogged their opponents as the Wombles found themselves dragged into the battle as their winless run extended to seven games, six of them ending in defeat.

A scrappy first half saw chances at a premium in blustery conditions.

Tyrese Shade tried his luck early on with a looping effort that Wimbledon goalkeeper Nathan Bishop grabbed before the onrushing Burton attackers could pounce.

Jake Beesley mistimed his header as he looked to convert Alex Hartridge’s inviting cross and Lofthouse’s tame shot from the edge of the box, straight at Bishop, summed up a disappointing half for the home side.

Injury-ravaged Wimbledon rarely threatened until Jake Reeves fired a hopeful shot straight at Brad Collins on the stroke of half-time.

Albion grabbed what proved to be the winner 10 minutes after the break when Hartridge’s long throw was flicked on by Jasper Moon and Lofthouse provided the simple headed finish at the back post.

Lofthouse should have doubled his and Albion’s tally midway through the half with a towering header that ended up wide of the post.

Wimbledon substitute Layton Stewart glanced a header wide as the visitors sought an equaliser, but Burton hung on for a big three points.