English soccer's biggest grudge match is born from a controversial and resented US-style relocation
The rivalry between AFC Wimbledon and MK Dons is one of the most bitter in English football.
The two clubs were originally one entity, Wimbledon FC, but in 2003 the club was controversially relocated to Milton Keynes, a town 60 miles outside of London. The move was deeply unpopular with Wimbledon fans, who felt that their club had been stolen from them.
In response, a group of fans formed a new club, AFC Wimbledon, which began playing in the ninth tier of English football. AFC Wimbledon has since risen through the ranks and is now a League One club, just two divisions below the Championship.
The rivalry between AFC Wimbledon and MK Dons is intense, with both sets of fans holding a deep hatred for each other. The two clubs have met several times in recent years, and the matches have always been fiercely contested.
The relocation of Wimbledon FC to Milton Keynes was a controversial decision that has had a lasting impact on English football.
The move was opposed by many fans, who felt that it would destroy the club's identity and history. The relocation also set a precedent for other clubs to move to new towns and cities, which has led to a number of other controversial relocations in recent years.
The rivalry between AFC Wimbledon and MK Dons is a reminder of the importance of tradition and history in football. It is a rivalry that is likely to continue for many years to come.
Here are some of the key moments in the history of the rivalry between AFC Wimbledon and MK Dons:
- 2003: AFC Wimbledon is formed in response to the relocation of Wimbledon FC to Milton Keynes.
- 2004: AFC Wimbledon begins playing in the ninth tier of English football.
- 2011: AFC Wimbledon is promoted to the Football League.
- 2013: AFC Wimbledon and MK Dons meet for the first time in a competitive match.
- 2016: AFC Wimbledon wins the League Two title.
The rivalry between AFC Wimbledon and MK Dons is one of the most bitter in English football. It is a rivalry that is born out of controversy and resentment, and it is a rivalry that is likely to continue for many years to come.