One way traffic as Latics are dominated by the Bluebirds – Cardiff City 1 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on January 5, 2026 by ianhaspinall
Sam Tickle made some brilliant saves
  • League One leaders Cardiff City recorded their eighth consecutive home win with a dominant performance against Wigan Athletic at the Cardiff City Stadium.
  • Latics were thoroughly outplayed by the Bluebirds who had 80 percent possession, forced 18 corners and had 17 shots.
  • But due to the brilliance of Latics goalkeeper Sam Tickle and some resolute defending the Bluebirds only managed one goal.
  • A superb 25-yard strike by Calum Chambers was ultimately the difference between the two teams.
  • Latics are now in 15th place and the Bluebirds remain in first place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made one change from the starting line-up against Barnsley on New Year’s Day with Tobias Brenan replacing Harrison Bettoni.

The hosts dominated right from the kick off and they forced the first opportunity in the second minute, when a corner was cleared into Chambers’ path, his well struck volley had Tickle at full stretch.

Latics adopted a low block to try to counteract wave after wave of Cardiff attacks.

On 10 minutes Chris Willock cut inside and shot from 18 yards out but his strike flew over the crossbar.

Tickle had to deny Omari Kellyman twice on 16 minutes, the first getting down low to push the attacker’s goal-bound strike away and then producing quality save in the centre of his goal.

Latics only opportunity of the game came on 19 minutes when Fraser Murray picked up Dara Costelloe’s flick-on and toe-poked his strike towards goal but goalkeeper Nathan Trott did well to push his effort away.

Chambers made the breakthrough in the 24th minute, producing an unstoppable strike from 25 yards out into the top corner. 

Latics just couldn’t get a foothold in the game with the hosts dominating possession and forcing numerous corners as the visitors defended in depth.

On 41 minutes Kellyman had another opportunity. Cian Ashford cut the ball back to the Chelsea loanee, but his strike was just wide of the post.

Finally Alex Robertson fired wide of the target on 45 minutes after a first half totally dominated by the hosts.

Ryan Lowe made a change at half time, replacing Brenan with Asamoah Jr and moving to a 3-5-2 formation.

But the hosts started the second half as they had done the first, by controlling possession.

A Cardiff corner caused a scramble in the Latics box on 53 minutes and on 58 minutes Yousef Salech’s glancing header was narrowly wide of Tickle’s post.

Then on 70 minutes Salech had another great chance but he headed over from close range.

Tickle then produced a series of brilliant saves to deny the hosts. First, he tipped substitute Callum Robinson’s shot around the post, before he somehow backpedalled to claw away Robertson’s deflected strike from under the crossbar. 

Tickle then touched the ball away following a dangerous cross as the Bluebirds continued their onslaught. The Latics keeper made his final save from Ryan Wintle in the 90th minute to keep out the hosts, but it was all to no avail as Latics were unable to summon a late equaliser.

Overview

Latics were outplayed by a superior team and did well to keep the score to only 1-0. 

Lowe may be criticised by some fans for adopting a low block and trying to restrict the number of chances Cardiff could create, but if they had adopted a more expansive approach they would probably have been beaten by a much bigger score.

Lowe did go with two forwards in the second half but the Bluebirds grip on the game was so powerful that Latics just couldn’t create any chances.

Brian Barry-Murphy’s young team are by far the best team in League One and the difference in quality was there for all to see.

Latics are currently an average team in League One and it will require the recruitment of some better quality players if they are to make an advance into the top half of the table.

Latics have a good defence and goalkeeper, but unless they can recruit more creativity in midfield and a proven goalscorer they will continue to struggle in the lower reaches of League One. 

Post-match comments

Lowe had challenged his players to show more belief, especially when competing against teams at the top of the pyramid. 

“It’s disappointing,” he told the media.

“I thought the lads were resolute for large parts of the game. We knew we had to come here with a different game plan and stay in the game as long as we could.

“They (Cardiff) had large spells with the ball. We could’ve done better with the ball, as we turned the ball over too easily.

“We had a word with them at half-time, and brought another striker on because we felt we needed something in behind.

“The lads do a lot of hard miles and ground work with the distances they cover, and the blocks and defending they do, but I am asking for more with the ball.

“I said to the group that they need to believe in themselves more, and that they can have a little spell with the ball. 

“We know what Cardiff are about – they are a fantastic team, and the best in the division. Lo and behold, we were undone by a 30-yard screamer.

“I can’t fault the lads – the belief coming to these types of places is something we have to keep working on, and hopefully one or two bodies coming through the door can give the lads a lift.

“The lads don’t want to let the Football Club down. They are working their socks off to try and represent the Football Club well.

“I can’t fault the lads. They are doing everything that I am asking them to do, but they are getting punished by good teams and good players.”

Sunday marked the end of the festive period, an action-packed time of year which has seen Latics play five matches in the space of two weeks. The manager paid special tribute to the supporters for their backing over Christmas, and expressed how the players will debrief before heading into Friday’s Emirates FA Cup clash at Preston North End.

“It’s been tough. We’ve had three away games over the course of the Christmas period, and the fans have travelled in their numbers. 

“Thank you to the fans for that. It’s been hard for players, let alone the fans, getting up early and travelling.

“The players will have a recovery day tomorrow, and we’ll do some analysis work with them on Tuesday. 

“We’ll get some feedback from the lads on what they believe, and then we’re going into an FA Cup game, which takes the focus off the league a little bit.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Calum Chambers, Cardiff City, League One, Ryan Lowe, Sam Tickle, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

Tics and Tykes share the points – Wigan Athletic 1 Barnsley 1

Posted on January 2, 2026 by ianhaspinall
Barnsley defend a Fraser Murray free-kick
  • Wigan Athletic and Barnsley played out a hard-fought 1-1 draw at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics dominated the first half and went ahead after only six minutes when Callum Wright’s cross was superbly volleyed home by Dara Costelloe at the near post.
  • The Tykes had a big chance to draw level when David McGoldrick broke clear but was denied by the left leg of Sam Tickle.
  • Latics had a triple chance to increase their lead but Barnsley goalkeeper Murphy Cooper pulled off a superb double save from Fraser Murray and then Costelloe, before Harrison Bettoni saw a shot deflected off the line.
  • The visitors were much improved in the second half and they equalised on 69 minutes when McGoldrick’s cross was smashed home by Adam Phillips.
  • Substitute Christian Saydee nearly regained Latics the lead but Cooper produced an outstanding save to deny him.
  • The Tykes went down to 10 men with six minutes remaining when captain Luca Connell saw red for kicking Will Aimson in the chest during an off the ball incident.
  • Substitute Asamoah Jnr had a late chance to get all three points but he headed over from a great position.
  • Latics are now in 14th place and Barnsley in 16th place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made two changes from Monday’s victory at Burton Albion with Jensen Weir replacing Tobias Brenan, while Fraser Murray came back in for Joe Hungbo.

Latics started on the front foot. Straight from kick off, they went on the attack, with Murray almost finding the run of Bettoni at the far post. 

Latics were quickly in front as Costelloe produced a superb finish on six minutes. Murray found Wright on the left who crossed for Costelloe, who fired a superb volley into the roof of the net.

Latics dominated possession and looked likely to get a second goal.

But on the break Barnsley had a great opportunity to equalise.

McGoldrick timed his run to perfection and slipped the Latics defence to go clear but fortunately Tickle was off his line quickly to make an important save with his leg.

Latics almost made it two before the break when they created three good chances but Barnsley goalkeeper Murphy Cooper pulled off a superb double save from Fraser Murray and then Costelloe, before Harrison Bettoni saw a shot deflected off the line.

Barnsley boss Hourihane made a double change at the break, with Reyes Cleary and Jonathan Bland replacing Patrick Kelly and Fabio Jalo. It proved to be a positive change as the visitors were much improved in the second half.

Morgan Fox had to head away with McGoldrick well positioned while Phillips saw his effort well saved by Tickle on the hour mark. 

The Tykes pressure resulted in the equaliser on 69 minutes as Phillips smashed his strike into the net after a swift counter attack.

Substitute Saydee replaced Bettoni and he nearly put Latics back in front with eight minutes left. The former Portsmouth striker forced Cooper into an outstanding save at full stretch. 

The Tykes went down to 10 men with six minutes remaining as captain Luca Connell saw red for kicking Will Aimson in the chest during an off the ball incident.

Latics pressed for a late winner and substitute Asamoah Junior could only head over from a great position and the points had to be shared.

Overview

Latics had produced an impressive first half creating several good chances but they were unable to add to their early goal and this proved critical.

The Tykes were on top at the start of the second half and they deservedly equalised.

Latics did rally late on and substitutes Saydee and Asamoah Junior had good chances to win the game.

In such a tight division taking your goalscoring opportunities will be the difference between mid-table and a play-off position.

Lowe’s men are showing signs of improvement but they are still very much a work in progress.

Recruitment in the January transfer window will be crucial to their hopes of a play-off place. 

It is to be hoped a quality striker, a creative midfielder and another wing-back can be brought in before the end of the window.

Post-match comments 

Afterwards Lowe was particularly pleased with the first half and expressed the importance of taking their clear-cut opportunities. 

“It was a game of two halves,” he told the media.

“We were very good in the first half, and should’ve come in with a minimum two-goal lead.

“We scored probably the hardest chance, and there were some good moments. I thought we were excellent and played some fantastic stuff.

“We knew it was always going to be different in the second half. We knew Barnsley would make changes, and when you’re 1-0 down, it’s easier to find a rhythm. 

“The goal we conceded was poor – we were in possession, turned it over, and we gave a good player a good opportunity to smash it into the roof of the net.

“We had a late rally towards the end, but you always feel vulnerable when the other team goes down to ten. You have to make sure you keep the back doors shut.  

“I am pleased that we got a point and scored again. We had enough chances to win, but it’s another point.

“We needed a little bit more composure. When you have those types of opportunities, you have to put the ball in the back of the net. 

“We need to start converting those chances – we need more composure in front of goal.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Adam Phillips, Barnsley, Dara Costelloe, League One | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics burst the Brewers bubble – Burton Albion 0 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on December 30, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Harrison Bettoni Wigan Athletic

Harrison Bettoni made the breakthrough at the Pirelli Stadium. Photo courtesy of Wigan Athletic

  • Wigan Athletic got back to winning ways with a 2-0 victory against Burton Albion at the Pirelli Stadium.
  • The confident Brewers had defeated Northampton Town 5-1 on Boxing Day but Latics burst their bubble with two second half goals.
  • Latics went ahead on 64 minutes when 18-year-old Harrison Bettoni headed home his third goal of the season from Joe Hungbo’s cross.
  • The visitors doubled their lead on 87 minutes when Dara Costelloe finished into the bottom right corner for his second goal of the season.
  • Latics move up to 12th place and the Brewers drop to 18th place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made four changes to the Latics XI from the defeat at Bradford on Boxing Day with Tyrese Francois, Tobias Brenan, Joe Hungbo and Costelloe starting.

Both teams had good chances to score in the first six minutes.

Hungbo’s left-sided cross was almost back-heeled home by Costelloe, before Francois fired his strike just over the crossbar from the edge of the box.

At the other end Sam Tickle made a good save to deny Tyrese Shade.

Bettoni was the next to go close for the visitors in the 13th minute, his strike had Brad Collins beaten but came back off the post.

Then on 19 minutes Tickle came to Latics’ rescue with a vital save.

Former Blackpool striker Jake Beesley looked odds on to score but the Tics goalkeeper did brilliantly to block the striker’s effort from point-blank range.

Worryingly Latics kept conceding set-piece situations on which the Brewers usually thrive. Alex Hartridge peppered the  visitors penalty box with numerous long throws but the defence held firm.

Costelloe had the final chance of the first half from the edge of the area but his strike was comfortably saved by Collins.

An even first half with chances not taken at both ends.

It was a scrappy opening to the second half with both sides conceding possession. 

Latics then threatened on 51 minutes. A Morgan Fox throw came to Callum Wright, whose volley was straight at Collins.

Bettoni was showing some good touches down the wing. One brilliant run down the right and through ball almost had Raphael in on goal, but Collins recognised the danger and was off his line quickly to snuff out the danger.

Latics made the breakthrough on 64 minutes. Hungbo drove down the left-hand side, and his deep cross was headed home at the far post by Bettoni for his third goal of the season.

Christian Saydee replaced Brenan on 67 minutes and Kgaogelo Chauke fired over for the hosts on 77 minutes.

Fraser Murray replaced Bettoni on 81 minutes.

The Brewers then had a glorious chance to draw level on 87 minutes but Kyran Lofthouse headed just wide of the post.

The points were sealed for Latics moments later when striker Costelloe scored only his second goal of the season. 

Substitute Murray lifted a ball over the Brewers’ defence, and Costelloe produced a composed finish into the bottom right corner.

Latics will want to try for back-to-back wins when they face Barnsley at the Brick on New Year’s Day.

Overview

This was an important confidence boosting victory for Lowe’s men after the two recent defeats.

Both sides had good chances in the first half and Latics had to contend with numerous Burton throw-ins and corners. 

They defended resolutely, but could they find the cutting edge that has been missing for most of the season?

On this occasion they found the back of the net with the exciting prospect Bettoni heading home, before the out of form Costelloe finally managed to get his name on the scoresheet.

Lowe’s men had once again battled hard, but the difference was that this time they were able to convert some of their chances.

Latics are a workmanlike outfit and similar to many teams in a very average division (only three points separate ninth and 21st place) but if they can find some quality reinforcements in the transfer window they might still make a run for the playoffs.

Post-match comments

Afterwards Lowe was made up for the players, staff, and supporters. 

“I am really pleased, and buzzing with the result,” he told the media.

“We knew it was going to be ugly at times – fair play to Gary (Bowyer), as that’s how he sets up his teams.

“I thought we could’ve been 2-0 up at half time, but I’ve got belief in the group, and I’ll always stick with them.

“Dara (Costelloe) has been through a tough time not scoring any goals, and we put belief in an 18-year-old kid.

“I thought we were fantastic without the ball, and I cannot fault the lads’ belief, desire, and determination to come here and get a result, as it’s not an easy place to come.

“When the lads perform like that, the credit goes to the players. We give them the game plan, and it’s up to them to take it into fruition.

“I’m buzzing for the lads, and for the away fans because they’ve certainly gone home happy tonight.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Burton Albion, Dara Costelloe, Harrison Bettoni, League One, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics’ Boxing Day battle ends in late defeat – Bradford City 2 Wigan Athletic 1 

Posted on December 27, 2025 by ianhaspinall
View from the away end
  • Nine-man Wigan Athletic suffered a late defeat against high-flying Bradford City at Valley Parade.
  • Joe Wright headed home Max Power’s 90th minute corner after Latics had both Jensen Weir and Matt Smith sent off.
  • In an evenly contested first half Raphael fired over the bar for the visitors before the hosts threatened, with Jenson Metcalfe’s long-range shot well pushed away by Sam Tickle.
  • The Bantams took the lead in the 45th minute when James Carragher and Tickle hesitated and former Latic Stephen Humphrys nipped in between them to finish.
  • Latics equalised on 64 minutes when Christian Saydee fed Callum Wright to convert from close range.
  • The game turned on 70 minutes when Latics were reduced to 10 men after Weir was shown his second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Ibou Touray.
  • Sixteen minutes later Smith became the second Latics player to be sent off when he was shown a straight red card for a foul on Metcalfe.
  • The nine-men were desperately hanging on at the end but they were cruelly undone when Wright headed home in the 90th minute winner from a corner.
  • Latics drop to 18th place and the Bantams are now in third place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made one change from Latics defeat against Blackpool last Saturday, with Harrison Bettoni coming in for his first league start, replacing Dara Costelloe.

It was a closely contested opening period but the hosts threatened first as Humphrys produced a dangerous low cross which nearly found Bobby Pointon in the middle.

Bettoni had a couple of opportunities to break forward but was closed down well by the Bantams defence.

Latics probably should have broken the deadlock on 40 minutes but Raphael volleyed over the crossbar from a good position.

At the other end Tickle made an important save to push Metcalfe’s strike wide, before Metcalfe’s deflected strike was almost bundled into the back of the net by Joe Wright. 

It looked like the teams would go into the break level but on 45 minutes Latics’ defence switched off and the Bantams were ahead.

A long ball was flicked on, Carragher and Tickle hesitated, and former Latic Humphrys nipped in between them to finish.

Latics started the second half strongly and were committing players forward. They nearly drew level but a last-ditch Wright clearance came in between Murray’s cross and Bettoni’s left foot.

But Latics deservedly drew level on 64 minutes. Saydee did well to improvise and hook the ball over his head and into the penalty area, and there was Callum Wright to finish beyond Sam Walker.

Latics were in the ascendancy now but the game turned in Bradford’s favour on 70 minutes. Weir was dismissed after a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Touray. 

On 86 minutes Latics were down to nine men as Smith was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Metcalfe.

The nine-men were desperately hanging on at the end but they were cruelly undone when Wright headed home in the 90th minute to break Latics’ hearts.

Overview 

Latics had produced a hard-working and committed performance but the two sending offs changed the game in Bradford’s favour. Both Weir and Smith made reckless challenges which ultimately led to the defeat. If Latics had kept eleven on the pitch they would most likely have come away with a point.

However, the team’s deficiencies remain, a lack of quality in the final third, a lack of creativity from midfield and Lowe’s tactics leave much to be desired.

Just hopefully lumping the ball forward will not get you results in this division.

Wingers Raphael and Murray are employed as wingbacks and have to spend most of the time defending rather than attacking.

The January transfer window provides an opportunity for reinforcements but are Lowe and the recruitment team capable of bringing in players of sufficient quality?

Post-match comments

Speaking afterwards, Lowe was naturally disappointed by the outcome but he praised his players for continuing to fight despite having a clear numerical disadvantage. 

“I am proud of the boys – they deserved more from that,” he told the media.

“We should’ve had a penalty in the first half, as their defender had his arms all over Cal Wright, and body slammed him to the floor. 

“When we scored, the momentum was in our favour, and then Jensen (Weir) got a second yellow card. 

“We were then done by a sucker punch from a set play. We were missing two key players – Jensen is a marker, and Matt is a blocker – and it does become a sickener. 

“I’ve told the lads, through no uncertain terms, that they have to stand up and be counted. 

“They have to be men. I’ll lead them, and they have to follow. We’ve got more games which are going to be tougher and tougher, and we want to try and climb the table as quickly as we possibly can.

“We don’t like being outside of the top 12, but there aren’t many points from where we want to try and get to.

“We need to keep believing and keep doing the right things. I’ll pick the group up because they are on the floor, and we’ll go again.  

“I thought our fans were brilliant from start to finish, and they realised what the lads had done with eight outfield players to carry on, and try and compete.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Bradford City, Callum Wright, Joe Wright, League One, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Toothless Tics’ tangerine torment – Wigan Athletic 0 Blackpool 2

Posted on December 21, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Ryan Lowe Head Coach Wigan Athletic
Ryan Lowe’s team continue to lack a cutting edge
  • Two former Wigan Athletic players came back to haunt them as they lost 2-0 to Blackpool at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics had the better of the first half and should’ve been ahead after 16 minutes but Will Aimson could only head over the crossbar from close range.
  • The visitors upped their game in the second half and were gifted the lead in the 59th minute when Matt Smith was dispossessed and substitute and former Latic Dale Taylor crossed for another former player Ashley Fletcher to slot home.
  • The Tangerines doubled their lead five minutes later when Fletcher flicked the ball for Taylor to finish.
  • The hosts tried to respond and substitute Paul Mullin had a goal ruled out for offside, and later blazed over the crossbar from close range.
  • Latics drop to 14th place and the Tangerines are now in 22nd place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made one change to the side that drew with Huddersfield Town with Dara Costelloe coming in for Luke Robinson, who was named on the bench.

It was a quiet opening to the game with the first shot coming from the visitors on 10 minutes when Josh Bowler’s strike was comfortably saved by Sam Tickle.

At the other end Callum Wright’s header was easily saved Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

The best chance of the half fell to Latics in the 16th minute. 

Fraser Murray’s in-swinging corner from the right resulted in a game of head tennis before it was met by Will Aimson at close range, who really should’ve given Latics the lead.

With both sides lacking a goal threat the scores were level at the break.

The visitors were much improved in the second half.

Almost inevitably it was two former Latics players who combined to open the scoring for the Tangerines.

Smith was dispossessed by the touchline and substitute Taylor crossed for Fletcher to finish at the near post.

The hosts tried to respond and Costelloe’s flick on was met by Aimson, whose header at close range was parried away by Peacock-Farrell.

The visitors doubled their lead five minutes later as they broke quickly and Fletcher’s back flick was finished by Taylor. 

Latics now pushed men forward to try and get back in the game but it was all in vain as substitute Mullin had a goal ruled out for offside, and later blazed over the crossbar from close range.

Latics will need to be much improved if they are to get anything from the trip to high-flying Bradford City on Boxing Day.

Overview 

Latics were the better side for much of the game but they continue to struggle in front of goal.

The visitors only had a few chances but they were clinical when the chances arose.

It was almost inevitable that former players Taylor and Fletcher would come back to punish Latics. 

Taylor was the Tics top scorer last season and it’s such a pity that they couldn’t afford the transfer fee to keep him at the club. Fletcher is something of a journeyman and struggled for goals at Latics, but he now seems to have found his mojo and has scored 13 goals this season.

It’s now evident that Latics’ strike force of Costelloe, Saydee and Mullin lack the quality to get the goals they will need this season. They aren’t getting good service but when the chances do arise they are invariably missed.

Ryan Lowe has invested in Saydee and Costelloe but it’s just not working out, and the on-loan Mullin may return to Wrexham in January.

A rethink is required if Latics are to make a push for the playoffs. 

Young striker Harrison Bettoni should be given his chance and they need to bring in at least another striker in January if they are to make the progress required.

Post-match comments 

Speaking post-match, Lowe showed frustration with missed chances in the game, and the fine details in football that swung the game in Blackpool’s favour.

“I thought we were the better team for most of the game,” he told the media.

“The big moments, that’s what happens in this division, and we had them moments, three big chances and we didn’t score any of them.

“They (Blackpool) have three chances on goal and score two. Sam (Tickle) had nothing to do in the first half, we were good, we dominated.

“Speaking to Ian (Evatt) before the game and we were saying, small margins, and that’s what’s happened.

“It’s been a bit of a smash and grab. People will look at it a bit different because it’s 2-0, but they scored the big chances and we didn’t.

“There’s not much more we can do, I said to the lads in there, we do the work with them on a daily basis, and they followed the gameplan for large parts.

“For the first goal, a throw in back, we give it away and don’t track our runners. The second one was a diagonal, pass round the corner, and we don’t track our runners.

“When that happens, you concede goals. I thought we played some good stuff today.

“We were on the front foot, in good areas, we need to score when we’re on top, we know that.

“We just didn’t have that quality to do that, so, that’s obviously then down to is something going to drop for you, is it not?

“When you leave good players unmarked and good players in the box they can punish you, and that’s what’s happened.”

Lowe, meanwhile, expressed the spirit his side will need to push forward after their unbeaten run came to an end on Saturday.

“We’ve got to go again. Listen, the unbeaten run, seven games, it was three wins and four draws.

“It’s good, but now it’s gone, it’s moved on, it was going to end at some point.

“Now we’ve got to get into this Christmas period, and we’ve got to believe we can go and win games of football.

“We’re going up against some good teams, tough teams, but hopefully we can relish that opportunity of playing against good teams.

“Teams in the playoffs, and first and second, and give a good account of ourselves. That’s got to be the reaction.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Ashley Fletcher, Blackpool, Dale Taylor, League One | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

Latics battle the Terriers for a point – Huddersfield Town 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on December 14, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Raphael celebrates his first goal for Latics

Raphael celebrates his first goal for Latics

  • Wigan Athletic and Huddersfield Town played out a hard-fought 1-1 draw at the Accu Stadium.
  • The Terriers went ahead in the 34th minute following a harshly awarded free-kick against Matt Smith. Lynden Gooch crossed and Murray Wallace converted a free header from the centre of the box.
  • Latics rarely threatened in the first half but Christian Saydee had an opportunity on 42 minutes but he miscued his effort well wide.
  • The visitors were much improved in the second half and they drew level on 52 minutes when Raphael scored his first goal for the club finishing through Lee Nicholls legs.
  • Raphael went close again on 63 minutes when his curling strike nearly found the top corner but came back off the crossbar.
  • Morgan Fox, Callum Wright, and Saydee all had chances to put the visitors ahead but poor finishing once again let Latics down.
  • Sam Tickle made an important save diving low to his right to keep out substitute Bojan Radulovic’s deflected effort on 78 minutes.
  • Despite six minutes of added time neither team could get the decisive winner and the points had to be shared.
  • Latics are now in 11th place and the Terriers are in seventh place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made three changes from the FA Cup win against Barrow AFC last weekend, with Luke Robinson, Jensen Weir, and Christian Saydee replacing Tyrese Francois, Dara Costelloe, and Paul Mullin in the starting line-up. Captain Jason Kerr was noticeably absent from the match day squad.

It was a physical opening to the game and the hosts Murray Wallace was booked for a high challenge on Fraser Murray and later Luke Robinson was yellow carded for a late challenge.

Saydee’s pressure led to a chance for Murray, but the former Kilmarnock midfielder’s strike was too tame to pose a problem for ex-Latics goalkeeper Nicholls.

At the other end, Matt Smith made a goal-saving sliding challenge to deny Alfie May who was poised to pounce in the box.

Leo Castledine drove forward for the Terriers on 17 minutes but his shot was well saved by Tickle.

Tickle was again called into action soon afterwards when Sean Roughan unleashed a low, left-footed drive from 20-yards out, but Latics Number One dealt with it superbly pushing it away from danger.

Huddersfield went ahead controversially in the 34th minute.

Referee Darren Drysdale harshly adjudged Smith to have fouled Castledine and Gooch whipped in the free-kick, which Latics failed to defend properly and Wallace headed home from close range.

Latics had rarely threatened in the first half but Saydee had an opportunity on 42 minutes but he miscued his effort well wide.

The hosts went close again just before the interval when Ryan Ledson saw his swerving strike well tipped over by the impressive Tickle.

Dara Costelloe replaced Robinson at half time and Lowe rejigged the formation. 

Latics were much improved in the second half and they drew level on 52 minutes when Raphael scored his first goal for the club.

The on-loan Coventry City man collected Callum Wright’s superb through-ball  and poked his strike through Nicholls’ legs.

The hosts briefly threatened when Marcus Harness’s ball into the box was deflected over his own crossbar by James Carragher.

But Latics now looked capable of going on to win the game had a series of good goalscoring opportunities.

Raphael went close again on 63 minutes when his curling strike nearly found the top corner but came back off the crossbar.

Morgan Fox, Callum Wright, and Saydee all had chances to put the visitors ahead but poor finishing once again let Latics down.

Tickle made another important save diving low to his right to keep out substitute Radulovic’s deflected effort on 78 minutes.

Both sides pushed for a late winner but the battle at the Accu Stadium ended level and the points had to be shared.

Overview

This was another point on the road for Latics. If only they could start converting the draws into wins they would be amongst the playoff contenders.

Lowe’s men had been competitive in the first half but they were unable to create many real chances.

They were much improved in the second half and really should’ve gone on to win the game. They created enough chances but Latics’ forwards clearly lack confidence in front of goal and their finishing has been pretty dreadful for much of the season.

They are currently hard to beat but continue to struggle for goals. Hopefully the two players identified by Lowe in the January transfer window can help to give them the cutting edge they so desperately need.

Looking positively they are now unbeaten in seven league games and ten in all competitions.

Post-match Lowe said that captain Jason Kerr had been injured in an accident at home and wouldn’t be available for some time, which will be big blow for the club over the busy Christmas period.

Post-match comments

Speaking post-match, Lowe praised his players for their efforts and expressed his pride in their current run of form. 

“It’s a fantastic point,” he told the media.

“The lads performed to the levels. I said to them in the changing room, it’s just about having a little bit more belief. 

“I believe that we can win anywhere – they are well-coached, well-drilled, and we know what we are trying to do.

“It was a sloppy goal from a wide free-kick that we conceded, but our goal was a fantastic, well-worked goal.

“It was a ball into space – Raph (Raphael) got on the end of it, and poked it through the keeper’s legs.

“The defensive shape without the ball was good – they couldn’t break us down and turned over the ball a bit.

“To come here, get a point and dominate the second half as we did was pleasing. I thought we could’ve nicked it at the end, but as always, I am pleased with the group and thought the fans were fantastic as well.

“This is a hard-earned point and one that we’ll relish because not many teams will come here and win.

“Huddersfield have some fantastic players – they haven’t got going, but I’m really pleased with the performance and result.

“If you draw your away games and win your home games, it bodes well for you.

“We’re 10 games unbeaten now – I know there’s not a lot of wins in there – but that’s something special in my eyes as Head Coach.

“We should be proud of our unbeaten record, and we want to keep building on it.”

James Carragher once again led by example after being entrusted with the captain’s armband, and the Gaffer confirmed post-match that Latics are set to be without Jason Kerr for a while.

“Jason is not good. He’s had an accident in the park with his baby. He’s got a crack on his kneecap after falling over one of the benches in the park while running after his son.

“He’s going to be out for a while. We haven’t got the real diagnosis – we’re disappointed, but the defence has been excellent, and we’ve got players who can step in.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Huddersfield Town, League One, Murray Wallace, Raphael Borges Rodrigues, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Review – The Football Battalions: The Elite Players Who Fought in the Great War by Christopher Evans

Posted on December 9, 2025 by ianhaspinall

The Football Battalions cover

The Football Battalions is the heartbreaking story of how professional footballers went to war. Christopher Evans explains, ‘In 1914 Britain is slowly becoming football obsessed: players are turning into household names, attendance is increasing and George V attends the FA Cup final in May and then the war breaks out. ‘

Once the war began, footballers were put under immense pressure to sign up by the newspapers of the day and many public figures. Many individuals and institutions denounced players and supporters as cowards and shirkers. There are strong similarities with certain sections of the media of today and how it can quickly shape public opinion.

The resulting formation of the Football Battalions was therefore partly a result of the footballers’ desire to help the war effort but also due to the fever whipped up by newspapers and others.

Football Battalions recruitment poster

Drawing on archival material, Evans recounts the wartime stories of the leading footballers of the day. Well known footballers such as Vivian Woodward, an Olympic gold medallist and football’s first superstar; Frank Buckley, who would emerge from the war a hero and would go on to redefine the role of a football manager; and Walter Tull, Tottenham and Northampton hero, who faced racism both on the football field and on the battlefield before becoming the first Black man to win a commission and command a unit in the British Army.

The build up to the footballers going to war is a little pedestrian but the high stakes narrative picks up when they reach France.

Private George Hill wrote of his experiences in France in 1916, when he lost his friend Joseph Adams and saw Captain Vivian Woodward wounded.

“I saw them all carried out of the trench. I was out of the trench when the Germans exploded two mines and commenced rapid firing on the trench. It was an awful situation when those two mines blew up, sandbags and dirt flying about. You must look after yourself or you will get buried. We were 80 yards from the German lines.”

Evans summarises, ‘Face down in the mud, sand and water, England’s most famous footballer, Vivian Woodward, lay motionless. The shrapnel from the grenade had torn through his skin, burying itself deep into the sinew of his lower legs, and he bled profusely. Alongside him lay the body of Joseph Adams. Very soon the dreaded news would arrive at his home in Clay Cross.’

On the first day of the Battle of the Somme 19,240 men lost their lives and in total 485,000 British and French soldiers were killed. The soldiers were incredibly brave during the Great War, but such horrendous slaughter of young men is hard to comprehend. It was a tragic waste of life.

Evans’ book provides a poignant reminder of the sacrifices that footballers made during the First World War. It is a worthy tribute to the footballers who fought, were wounded or lost their lives.

The Football Battalions – The Elite Players Who Fought in the Great War by Christopher Evans. Published by Bloomsbury. Price £20.

This review first appeared in the January/February 2026 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in Christopher Evans, First World War, Football Book Reviews, Late Tackle magazine, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Latics do it the hard way – Wigan Athletic 2 Barrow 2 (AET Wigan win 4-3 on pens). FA Cup 2nd Round.

Posted on December 7, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Acting captain James Carragher scored his first FA Cup goal
  • Wigan Athletic survived another FA Cup scare when they defeated League Two AFC Barrow after extra time and penalties at the Brick Community Stadium. 
  • After struggling against Hemel Hempstead Town in Round One Latics once again toiled against lower league opposition.
  • Latics led at half-time through acting captain James Carragher’s header but Barrow were the better team in the second half.
  • The visitors equalised on 65 minutes when Ben Whitfield’s cross was poked home by Jack Earing and with five minutes remaining it looked as though they had secured a place in the third round when Charlie McCann’s corner was headed home by Niall Canavan via the bar.
  • Will Aimson then came to Latics rescue when he headed home a Callum McManaman cross in the last minute to take the game to extra time.
  • In the penalty shootout McManaman, Fraser Murray, Aimson and Christian Saydee all converted for Latics, while Sam Tickle denied Ben Jackson, and MJ Williams struck the crossbar to send Latics through to the third round.

Ryan Lowe made three changes from the midweek victory against Burton Albion, with Carragher, Tyrese Francois and Callum Wright replacing Kerr, Jensen Weir and Saydee in the starting XI. Carragher took the captain’s armband in the absence of Kerr.

Latics controlled the game in the early stages and after eight minutes Paul Mullin’s strike had Stanway scrambling across his goal.

The hosts deservingly went ahead in the 13th minute when captain Carragher was in the right place at the right time. Murray’s corner from the left wasn’t convincingly cleared by Stanway, and Carragher headed home at the far post.

Latics went close again soon afterwards when a quickly taken free-kick allowed Wright and Murray and the latter’s cross was almost tapped home by Costelloe.

On the half hour Francois’ turn and cross into the box was just too far ahead of Mullin for the striker to capitalise.

Just before half-time Latics had another chance. Following some good play down the right, Murray’s low ball found Mullin, who saw his first-time effort fly wide of the post.

Latics had in early chance in the second half with Mullin having another sighter on goal. Picking up the ball on the edge of the box his curling strike was well saved by Stanway. 

Barrow upped their game as the half progressed. A cross from the right looked destined for Gordon, but Carragher did just enough to avert the danger.

The visitors deservedly brought the game back level on 65 minutes. Whitfield’s cross into the box was poked into the bottom corner by Earing. 

Latics tried to respond straight away, and substitute McManaman cut inside from the left and his strike took a big deflection and nearly dipped over Stanway and into the far corner.

It looked like the visitors had caused a big upset with five minutes remaining, they took the lead after a corner was headed in by Canavan. 

But Latics were not to be undone and in the 89th minute, McManaman lifted a cross to the far post, and Aimson was there to head home and keep the Tics Cup hopes alive.

There was time for another twist in the game when former Latic Scott Smith nearly won it at the death. The Wiganer took aim from the edge of the area, and despite the strike taking a big deflection, Tickle somehow managed to claw it away. It kept Latics in the game and into extra time.

In the first period of extra time, Charlie McCann saw a strike narrowly miss Tickle’s post and at the other end substitute Harrison Bettoni fired straight at Stanway after a mazy run.

Latics dominated possession in the second half of extra time.

McManaman had a header caught by Stanway and a well-blocked volley, while Saydee was also denied by a last-ditch defending after good skill inside the area.

The game finished all level and the lottery of penalties commenced.

McManaman, Murray, Aimson and Saydee all confidently converted for Latics, while Tickle denied Ben Jackson, and MJ Williams struck the crossbar to send the relieved hosts through.

Overview

Latics had once again struggled against lower league opposition. Recent performances have been far from convincing and as against Burton Albion on Tuesday night they had been outplayed in the second half.

Credit should go to Barrow for a battling performance. They caused Latics plenty of problems and many other League One teams might have folded under the pressure but the hosts had shown a never-say-die attitude to stay in the game and ultimately go through.

Despite their current failings particularly in the final third they had shown the character and spirit to progress.

They had done it the hard way once again but had made it through and will be hoping for a good draw in the Third Round on Monday.

Post match comments

Afterwards Lowe spoke to the media and was delighted that they are now in the hat for the Third Round of the FA Cup.

“We’re through to the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup, where the big hitters are, and hopefully we can have a day out with our fans,” he said.

“Whether it’s at home or away, the Third Round is the stage everyone wants to get to in our division and League Two. It’s a job well done.

“We have to pay Barrow the respect they deserve – they have a good set of lads who are well experienced and well equipped. 

“It was never going to be easy. We found ourselves 2-1 down, from something we felt we could deal with.

“I’ll give our lads their due – they got themselves back in the game. Both teams in extra time were looking to see it out into penalties because both teams were shattered.

“It was our third game in a week – our lads were on their feet, but that’s what the FA Cup is all about.

“There have been two games now where we’ve gone through on penalties, but I don’t care how we get through, as long as we do get through.

“Hopefully, we can now have a special day out with this Football Club, and our special fans.”

Posted in AFC Barrow, Jack Earing, James Carragher, Niall Canavan, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Latics ride their luck and scrape past the Brewers – Wigan Athletic 1 Burton Albion 0

Posted on December 3, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Paul Mullin edged Latics ahead
  • In a game of poor quality Wigan Athletic defeated Burton Albion 1-0 at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Neither team really threatened until the 41st minute when Christian Saydee drilled a shot across goal and the ball hit Paul Mullin and Terence Vancooten before finding the back of the net.
  • The Brewers were much improved in the second half and went close when substitute Dylan Williams’ corner was headed just beyond the far post by Jake Beesley.
  • Later a Beesley toe poke looped over goalkeeper Sam Tickle and came back off the crossbar.
  • Tickle came to Latics rescue in the closing stages making fine saves to deny both Kyran Lofthouse and Vancooten.
  • The hosts extended their unbeaten run to eight games but it was a far from impressive victory.
  • Latics move up to 11th and the Brewers are now in 19th place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made two changes from the draw with Stevenage at the weekend with Matt Smith and Mullin replacing Tyrese Francois and Callum Wright.

Lowe employed three strikers for the fixture with Mullin partnered with Dara Costelloe and Christian Saydee being deployed in an attacking midfield position.

Latics controlled possession in the opening period but were unable to create any clear-cut opportunities.

Latics’ first real opportunity came when Raphael drove into the area. The on-loan Coventry City winger curling his strike just wide of the post.

Latics made the breakthrough somewhat fortuitously when Saydee drilled an effort from the right across the six-yard box and the ball hit Mullin and Vancooten before finding the back of the net. 

The hosts again struggled to create much in the second half and as the half progressed the visitors started to assert themselves.

The Brewers went close in the 70th minute when substitute Williams found Beesley with a corner and he headed narrowly wide.

Another Beesley effort came bank off the crossbar as Latics rode their luck.

The hosts were now retreating further into defence and unable to keep possession. The visitors sensed an opportunity to get something from the game.

Tickle had to come to the Tics rescue on two occasions. Having pushed a Kyran Lofthouse strike away, the Latics keeper somehow managed to tip over Vancooten’s curling strike.

Latics held on for the three points but it was a far from impressive victory. 

They will have to show a marked improvement if they are to progress in the FA Cup on Saturday when they take on Barrow in a Second Round tie at the Brick.

Overview 

This was a disappointing performance by Latics against a team who were low in confidence and had been defeated 4-0 at home by Leyton Orient on Saturday. 

Latics used three strikers in the starting line-up but they struggled throughout to create chances. Had it not been for Tickle’s two outstanding saves and the Brewers missed opportunities they could easily have lost the game.

Graham Barrow has suggested there was sickness in the camp prior to the game and this meant Callum Wright was unavailable and that others may have been affected.

Whether this was a contributing factor in this lacklustre performance is hard to say but it was definitely an unsatisfactory display by the hosts.

On the positive side Latics are now eight games undefeated, have moved into the top half of the table and are only three points off a playoff spot.

Post match comments 

Club Ambassador Graham Barrow spoke to the media afterwards and explained that there was a sickness bug in the Latics camp and it had affected some players and the coaching staff.

Barrow believes that Latics are growing as a group and are building momentum ahead of the hectic festive period.

“We took it as a two-game block – including this game and the Stevenage game – and after getting those points away from home, we wanted to build on that.

“Stevenage came here and made it hard for us, and I thought ironically we played better than what we did tonight and got the point, but got the three points tonight.

“It’s much easier now in football with the modern tactics to stop teams playing, and we are learning to deal with that.

“We feel very strongly that we are growing as a team, and that things are coming together.

“We took ourselves near the top ten tonight, and if we win on Saturday, we can go into the New Year with a lot of hope.

“We aren’t completely happy with the performance tonight, obviously – the win was more important. 

“Everyone is working really hard behind the scenes – from the technical staff to the coaching staff – and the players are as good a group as we’ve had here. 

“We are a strong group, and we will get it right. It’s not always been pretty, but we want to improve and feel like we are improving.

“We came up against an experienced manager tonight, who set up his team to make it really difficult for us. We got over the line, and that’s the most important thing.

“We understand people’s feelings, and appreciate the people who did come tonight, and stayed till the end.

“They got their just rewards. It’s only just over two years since I was on holiday that summer, and Shaun Maloney said we are out of business tomorrow morning. 

“This is a brand new project – I was here when Dave Whelan bought the Club, and it feels a little bit like that at the moment.

“That took a little bit of time, and we just need to be a bit more patient. Stick with the lads, and what’s going on – there is a plan in place, and this is just the start of it.”

Player ratings 

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Burton Albion, Graham Barrow, League One, Paul Mullin | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Stalemate with Stevenage at the Brick – Wigan Athletic 0 Stevenage 0

Posted on November 30, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Fraser Murray wasted a golden opportunity
  • In a hard-fought game Wigan Athletic were held to a 0-0 draw by league leaders Stevenage at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics were left to rue their chances in a game of few chances. In the first half  Dara Costelloe had a shot blocked before Jensen Weir sliced an effort wide of the post.
  • At the other end, Gassan Ahadme’s header was tipped over by Sam Tickle and later the Latics keeper turned Jamie Reid’s effort around the post.
  • The hosts might’ve had a penalty just before half-time when Callum Wright was hauled down by Dan Sweeney, but referee Ross Joyce waved away the appeals.
  • Latics had two great opportunities in the final fifteen minutes but Fraser Murray and substitute Harrison Bettoni were unable to make their headers count.
  • Latics drop to 17th place and Stevenage slip to second place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe named an unchanged starting XI from their 2-1 victory at AFC Wimbledon last weekend. 

Latics started the game on the front foot with Raphael Borges Rodrigues and Murray both sending inviting crosses into the box, but they came to no avail.

The visitors were a threat from set-pieces and Tickle had to be on his toes to deny their aerial threat.

At the other end of the field, Costelloe’s shot was blocked before Weir sliced an effort wide of the post.

The visitors threatened when a miscued clearance fell kindly to Jamie Reid 12 yards out, but Tickle was quick off his line to block the strike.

The hosts had a great opportunity when Murray’s corner from the right was met by Jason Kerr inside the six-yard box, but Filip Marschall did well to get down low to keep it out.

Stevenage’s best opportunity of the half came when Reid’s goal-bound flick was turned around the post by the agile Tickle.

Latics might’ve had a penalty just before half-time when Wright was hauled down by Sweeney, but referee Joyce waved away the appeals.

The second half started slowly but Latics gradually built momentum and started to dominate possession.

Chances were few and far between but when they came it was for Latics.

The best opportunity of the game came on 83 minutes. Fox’s inviting cross from the left found the run of Murray, who glanced his header agonisingly wide.

Substitute Harrison Bettoni then had a good chance but the 18-year-old misdirected his header well wide of the target and the game finished level.

Overview

Before the game a draw with the league leaders would’ve been perceived as a good result but on the balance of play Latics will feel aggrieved that they didn’t take all three points.

Stevenage are well-drilled and physical opponents but as the game went on Latics gained control and were the team most likely to take all three points.

It was obvious that the visitors were happy with a point given their time-wasting tactics in the second half.

Murray and Bettoni had great opportunities to make the breakthrough but chances just aren’t being taken at the moment.

Lowes’s men really do lack a cutting edge. Saydee, Costelloe, Mullin, and Murray are all struggling for goals. 

Latics are now seven games unbeaten but if the draws had been converted into wins they would now be sitting in a strong position in the table.

If they can find that cutting edge they will surely start climbing the table.

The quest for goals continues on Tuesday night when they host Burton Albion at the Brick.

Post match comments

Afterwards Lowe spoke to the media, and he praised the efforts and endeavour of his players in what was a real battle against a resilient Stevenage, and expressed the importance of building on their seven-match unbeaten run next time out. 

“We had the best chances to go and win it,” Lowe said.

“We didn’t have much quality in the final third – whether that was crosses, little pull-backs and sets to finish.

“We knew Stevenage were going to be difficult to break down. I can’t fault the lads’ efforts – it was a battle out there.

“We knew we’d be coming up against the land of giants. Alex (Revell) has got his team really set up – they are solid, resolute and don’t concede many goals.

“We knew it was going to be one of these days where we needed to have a moment of quality to break them down. 

“I thought we had it when Fraser Murray flicked his header wide, but I can’t complain. The lads have been excellent. 

“It’s a point – and another point. You don’t want to lose any games of football.

“Stevenage were top of the league for a reason, but we need to be better in certain areas. I am disappointed we haven’t got two more points – but I can’t complain because the lads have been excellent, and I have to give credit to Stevenage. 

“We can be a match for anyone in this league. If we have a bit more belief and desire, I believe we can score these goals as we are creating the chances. 

“It’s another draw and clean sheet – and we’ve got another important game on Tuesday night. 

“If we take three points in that game, it bodes well for the weekend.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments