AFC Wimbledon rising from the ashes

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2007

LONDON (AFP) — AFC Wimbledon, formed by fans heartbroken at Wimbledon FC's controversial relaunch in Milton Keynes, have hit a crossroads on their surge towards England's professional leagues.

Six tiers below Wimbledon FC's Premiership heights, AFC sees itself as the rightful successor to the old club, rather than Milton Keynes Dons, and dreams of restoring the Wimbledon name to the big time.

But now the south-west London club, which is easily the best-supported team in the Isthmian Premier with an average attendance of 2,512, faces some big decisions.

AFC Wimbledon, created in 2002, face painful compromises seemingly unavoidable if they are to reach the fourth tier and professional football.

Firstly, whether to continue as a fan-owned club, with...