Liam McAlinden headed home an 81st-minute winner as Wolverhampton Wanderers secured a hard-fought 1-0 win away to 10-man MK Dons in League One today.
More than 9,000 Wolves fans made the trip to Milton Keynes, but the travelling supporters had to wait some 45 minutes before watching their team threaten to take the lead.
Stellar defending from both outfits ensured that chances were at a premium in the first half, but Nouha Dicko forged an opening on the stroke of half time before seeing his effort tipped over by David Martin.
Dean Bowditch was handed just his second start of the season for the visit of Kenny Jackett's men, and the striker would have justified his inclusion in style if not for the intervention of goalkeeper Carl Ikeme.
The 27-year-old's 30-yard free kick looked to be sailing into the top corner, but Ikeme tipped it past the post early in the second half.
Sanmi Odelusi's second yellow card in the space of a minute handed Wolves fresh impetus in their quest for victory, and Jackett's troops took a giant step toward the win shortly after.
McAlinden rose highest to head home a Kevin McDonald cross with nine minutes remaining to send Wanderers six points clear of Brentford at the summit of the League One standings.
Shane Callaghan
