The home side dominated for the majority of the first period, but were unable to land a blow on their southern visitors.

It was Wimbledon who created the big chance of the opening half, when Layton Stewart found himself through one on one.

However, Wigan goalkeeper Sam Tickle was off his line in a flash to make a fantastic save.

The other moment of note before half-time was a bizarre incident which saw Dons’ assistant manager Terry Skiverton punch the ball – which had just gone out of play – from the technical area towards the Wigan goal.

Referee Matt Corlett walked over and brandished a straight red card.

The second period mirrored the first, offering little goalmouth excitement, with Hackford thinking he was in on goal before being denied by Wigan defender Will Aimson.

However, Hackford wasn’t finished and he was in the right place at the right time to convert fellow substitute Zack Nelson’s cross with seconds remaining to ensure safety.