Dean's goal was first in 11 years

Blackwell celebrated his comeback from injury with his first goal in over 11 years in last Saturday's 4-1 romp at Withdean.

The centre half's header from a Richard Carpenter free-kick just before half time ended an incredible drought dating back to October, 1991.

That is when Blackwell bagged his only goal in 212 League games for Wimbledon. On as a substitute, he scored with a header in a 2-1 home win against Sheffield Wednesday in Division One.

Blackwell was on target again for the Dons in an FA Cup third round tie at Notts County two years ago, but his 'goal' was deleted from the record books as the match was abandoned shortly after due to fog.

The 33-year-old's rare contribution came on his first start since suffering hamstring trouble at Preston in November.

Coppell said: "Dean is a good quality centre half. In recent weeks the three at the back have been playing well and it was just a question of him being patient.

"He showed as far as he is concerned possession is nine tenths of the law and he doesn't want to be removed from that position."

Blackwell's return in place of the injured Nathan Jones saw Kerry Mayo reverting to the left wingback role.

The willingness to get forward of Mayo and Paul Watson on the other flank played a major part in Albion's win.

Coppell said: "Sometimes the wingbacks get anchored and we play almost like a five. I am always challenging them to get forward and make it three at the back, rather than five.

"Kerry was adventurous. He overplayed a few times in defensive positions but you want to encourage him to play and not be frightened of making mistakes.

"He loves getting forward and Watto also likes to try and get up there."

Albion embark on a burst of three away games out of four at Bradford on Saturday, culminating in the trip to relegation rivals Stoke on March 5 for which admission prices have been slashed to £5 for home and away fans.

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