ADAM Barrett could not bring himself to celebrate scoring against Southend United for AFC Wimbledon.

The experienced defender, who made 289 appearances during six years with the Shrimpers, netted a stunning 25 yard shot to take the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy clash to a penalty shoot-out which the Dons won 4-2.

But Barrett felt it would have been disrespectful to have outwardly enjoyed his own part in Tuesday night’s win for his current side.

“I was pleased to score but I didn’t want to celebrate out of respect to the club and the fans,” said Barrett, who grew up supporting Blues.

“I had so many fantastic years playing for Southend and everyone knows what the club means to me.

“I was delighted to score and I’m a professional footballer doing my job.

“It was also up there with the best I’ve ever scored but I think my volley at Southampton remains my favourite.”

Barrett’s injury time strike secured a 2-2 draw for the Dons who played more than 70 minutes of the match with 10 men after Harry Pell was sent off for a poor challenge on David Worrall.

And, despite being under pressure for most of the game, Barrett felt victory was just reward for Wimbledon’s hard work.

“It was very difficult with 10 men but we dug in well,” said the 34-year-old.

“Southend had a lot of possession but we maybe deserved the result because of how hard we worked to stay in the game.”

Wimbledon have now beaten Blues twice in the last fortnight having previously won 1-0 at Roots Hall in the league.

However, Barrett has been still been impressed by Phil Brown’s side and fully expects them to be up towards the top of the table come the end of the season.

“They have dangerous players and are a good side,” said Barrett.

“I played with Myles Weston so I know what he can do and I would be surprised if they aren’t in and around the promotion mix at the end of the season. “