*** NEW BLOG ***. That's why we're going up. Here I take a stats-based look at some of the reasons behind the Dons' promotion. As always, shares, retweets and comments greatly appreciated.

Dont mind this. Tough balance between putting out team to win & rotating squad to share workload. Big question is whether Maycock and McCoy-Splatt get overrun in MF. Also interesting to see how back 3 set up - IMO will look better with Harbottle rather than Johnson in the middle.

RT @AFCWimbledon: “Just one more pass and they’ll be clean through…” 🫣. Joe Lewis: “Hold my beer!” 💨 . #AFCW 🟡🔵

Early days, but I'm not sure we'll see a better piece of defending than Joe Lewis's recovery run and tackle yesterday this season. See ground he had to make up below - first when they won the ball, then when they played it forward. Too slow for L1 according to Troy Deeney.

Obvs playing against 10 men for 70 mins helps, but so much to like today. Gave them next to nothing (2 shots all game). Loads of good performances - Asiimwe, Lewis, Ogs, Smith all stood out. Perfect situation for Sasu to come on in and made a big difference. Hope Lewis is okay.

Find the lack of Bugiel in the squad a bit odd, unless he's not fit. Think we miss his physicality and link play, and not sure any of our other forward options really offer that.

Still time to listen to the latest Womble Coefficient pod to get you in the mood for today's game.

To conclude - two competive teams that don't give much away and don't seek to dominate the ball. Doesn't scream a classic but you never know. Despite all the evidence, I think there might be goals. Will say 2-1 to Wimbledon with a rare late winner.

Any weaknesses? Lincoln are not the quickest at the back. Two CBs in their 30s. Hackford's pace could cause them problems. Also likely to start Ryley Towler at left back - clearly a good defender but not natural there and Asiimwe's pace could trouble him (hopefully).

Lincoln lost their most exciting player last week - Jovon Makama, moving to Norwich for 7 figure fee. But other attacking threats. James Collins (10 goals in 20 games last season). Rob Street (12 in 24 for Doncaster). Also watch Darikwa (5 goals, 5 assists from RB last season).

Lincoln were brilliant at set pieces last season. Scored 30 of them, highest in the entire EFL. Set piece goal difference of +18! They did lose a big set piece threat in Paudie O'Connor over the summer but look to have replaced him well with the experienced Sonny Bradley.

Lincoln are good at winning the ball back. Topped L1 for interceptions last season. Both Lincoln and Wimbledon ranked 2nd in their divisions for fouls conceded last season. Expect a competitive affair.

Lincoln are not a big possession team. Averaged 45% last season, 5th lowest in L1. Only had 34% of the ball vs Reading last week. Might be a rare game where Wimbledon have more possession.

Michael Skubala now entering 3rd season in charge. Formerly England Futsal manager. Often played a back 3 in the past but switched to back 4 midway through last season and worked well. Played 4231 vs Reading and expect the same vs Wimbledon.

Lincoln had good defensive numbers last season. 5th lowest xG against in L1. Actually conceded 13 more than expected based on quality of chances given up. Attacking numbers a bit less impressive. 13th for goals scored, 15th for xG, 13th for shots on target, 14th for big chances.

Lincoln were a fair bit better at home than away last season. Only managed 6 away wins and 15th best away record in L1. Maybe some hope there.

Lincoln finished 11th in L1 last season. 61 points from the 46 games. 17 points outside the playoffs, 15 clear of relegation. Have been a solid L1 side for a while. Now entering 7th straight season at the level (finishes of 16th, 5th, 17th, 11th, 7th, 11th).

Lincoln beat Reading 2-0 on opening day. Reading had more shots (9 vs 6) but Lincoln had the better chances and looked good value for the win. Limited Reading to 0.35 xG.

Wimbledon vs Lincoln stats-based preview thread. #AFCW .#imps.

RT @trevwomble72: This is a thread that should embarrass wider football authorities. Imagine these people losing all this- it’s utterly fuc….

RT @sammymacuk: League One mascots ranked based on whether you'd trust them as a babysitter . 🧵.