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 A 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

Brilliant Bettoni brace gives Latics their first away win of the season – AFC Wimbledon 1 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on November 23, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Harrison Bettoni

Harrison Bettoni’s dream debut secured Latics’ first away win

  • Eighteen-year-old substitute Harrison Bettoni’s stunning brace gave Wigan Athletic their first away win of the season against AFC Wimbledon at the Cherry Red Records Stadium. 
  • Latics had the better of the first half and missed several good chances with Fraser Murray, Dara Costelloe and Callum Wright all going close. At the other end the Dons had a great opportunity on 38 minutes but Ryan Johnson headed just over.
  • The Dons were much better at the start of the second half and they went ahead on 70 minutes when Joe Lewis flicked on a long ball for Alistair Smith, who fired home via the crossbar.
  • On 77 minutes manager Ryan Lowe gave Bettoni his Football League debut and with his first touch he fired home a superb free-kick to draw Latics level.
  • Ten minutes later Bettoni’s dream debut got even better when he produced another sublime finish which secured a rare victory for Latics in the capital.
  • Latics move up to 15th place and the Dons are now in eighth place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made two changes from Latics 1-1 draw at Exeter City in their last League One outing a fortnight ago. Tyrese Francois replaced the suspended Matt Smith and Dara Costelloe returned up front after serving his three-match suspension. 

It was a quiet opening period at the Cherry Red Records Stadium with neither side creating any chances until on 13 minutes Latics had an opening.

Raphael drove forward before releasing the ball for Callum Wright. Wright found Fraser Murray inside the six-yard box but Murray somehow dragged his close range strike wide. 

Five minutes later the visitors had another chance. Costelloe charged through after a clever Christian Saydee dummy, and might have taken a shot but unselfishly squared it to Wright, who was denied by an excellent last-ditch block.

Latics had another great chance in the 25th minute when Costelloe met Wright’s inviting cross from the left and headed his near-post effort just over the crossbar.

The hosts best chance of the half came on 38 minutes when Seddon’s free-kick found Johnson free in the box but he headed just over the crossbar.

The Dons were much improved in the second half, pressing higher and moving the ball quicker.

But the visitors went close in the 67th minute when Raphael’s curling strike just cleared the crossbar. 

Latics failure to capitalise on their chances looked critical in the 70th minute when the Dons went ahead with Alistair Smith firing home off the crossbar from a Joe Lewis flick on. 

Ryan Lowe immediately introduced substitute Bettoni for what turned out to be an incredible league debut.

With his first touch of the game, Bettoni brilliantly bent a remarkable free-kick into the top corner. 

Ten minutes later Bettoni grabbed the winner, after he sublimely finished past Nathan Bishop in what was a truly remarkable debut for the eighteen-year-old.

Despite four minutes of added time Latics held on for their first away win of the season and their first win in London since 2021.

Overview

Latics had once again struggled to convert their chances against the Dons and when Alistair Smith gave the hosts the lead it looked like another frustrating afternoon in London.

Jason Kerr had gifted the Dons a corner and from the resulting play Latics had conceded and heads might have dropped but fortunately up stepped Bettoni for a stunning debut.

I’m sure the eighteen-year-old couldn’t have dreamed of a better start to his Latics career. With his first touch he curled a stunning left foot strike into the top corner and then ten minutes later he stayed composed and slotted home a remarkable winner with his right foot.

Have the Latics Academy unearthed another gem?

It’s very early days in Bettoni’s career but he could prove to be the answer to the Tics striker problems.

Christian Saydee, Costelloe and Mullin are all struggling for goals and Asamoah Junior has an injury. After such a stunning debut Bettoni deserves to start against Stevenage next Saturday.

Post match comments

Afterwards Lowe was extremely pleased to send the fans home happy with three huge points. 

“I’m pleased for the group, and I am pleased for our fans,” he told the media.

“I dedicate that win to them, because they’ve been travelling in their droves for many months now.

“We felt like we should’ve won at Lincoln, Mansfield and Exeter, and sent them home happy today with a late winner which was thoroughly deserved. 

“I thought we were the better team in the first half, but AFC Wimbledon came out in the second half and caused us a few problems. 

“We changed shape and brought a couple of players on after their goal, and were really on the front foot to get back into the game.

“The away win has been coming – the lads have been excellent all week, and we felt today was going to be a good day for us, and the work has paid off.

“The togetherness within the group is fantastic, and I want that to continue, and with our fans, who are a big part of it

“I am really pleased for the fans, as they pay their hard-earned money and have been waiting for that away win, and I am pleased for the players because they’ve taken all the information on board and executed the game plan.”

“When the free-kick was on that side, Fraser (Murray) and Morgan (Fox) were after it, and I thought let’s make the change now.

Harrison has ability so I told him to go on and pick a corner. Lo and behold, he bangs it in the top corner. 

Credit to Harrison (Bettoni) – he’s been fantastic and on the verge of getting around us. 

His attitude and application has gone through the roof, and he’s come on today and won us three points.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in AFC Wimbledon, Alistair Smith, Harrison Bettoni, League One, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics struggle to convert away draws into wins – Exeter City 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on November 9, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Callum Wright put Latics ahead
  • Wigan Athletic drew for the fifth time in six away games when they were held 1-1 by Exeter City at St James Park.
  • Latics took the lead in the 24th minute when Callum Wright produced a composed finish from Morgan Fox’s free kick.
  • Wright, Jason Kerr and Fraser Murray all had good chances to increase the visitors lead in the first half.
  • The Grecians upped their game at the start of the second half and exerted concerted pressure on the Latics goal.
  • They equalised on 53 minutes when Jayden Wareham finished at the near post from Reece Cole’s cross.
  • Both sides had good chances to win the game but Latics were particularly unlucky to have a goal chalked off when Christian Saydee was adjudged to have handled the ball when it looked like he’d sealed the three points.
  • Latics are now in 16th place and the Grecians in 19th place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made four changes from the FA Cup tie against Hemel Hempstead with Will Aimson, Luke Robinson, Matt Smith, and Raphael Borges Rodrigues returning to the side.

It was a disjointed opening period but Latics had a couple of good chances in the first ten minutes.

The Grecians Pierce Sweeney pressurised Wright from diverting Christian Saydee’s cross home, before Jason Kerr glanced a header wide from a corner.

On 22 minutes Wright had another chance when Fraser Murray’s ball was diverted into his path, and the midfielder was denied at point-blank range by the Crystal Palace loanee Joe Whitworth.

But Wright was not to be denied and two minutes later. Morgan Fox caught out the Exeter defence and Wright was allowed to get in behind and clip the ball beyond the oncoming Whitworth. It was a composed finish by the Plymouth Argyle loanee.

Latics nearly added to the lead on the half-hour mark when Saydee released Murray with a lovely reverse pass, but the midfielder’s drive was well saved by Whitworth at his near post.

Exeter started to build some momentum towards the end of the first half and Sam Tickle had to come to Latics rescue when Jack McMillan took a shot from the edge of the 18-yard box, and Tickle did well to make push the attempt wide.

The hosts were much improved at the start of the second half. Their quick interplay was causing Latics all sorts of problems.

Ilmari Niskanen delivered a dangerous ball into the box from the right-hand side, and Tickle had to react quickly to deny the arriving Danny Andrew. 

The hosts equaliser came in the 53rd minute. Following a quick move down the right, Wareham directed Reece Cole’s low cross into the net at the near post.

Latics reacted well and they almost regained the lead but Raphael’s low drive was pushed wide by Whitworth.

Exeter were dominating possession but the Latics were dangerous on the counterattack

On 65 minutes Smith, Murray, and Saydee combined superbly to set up Wright, whose curling strike was saved by Whitworth.

Latics then had to do some last ditch defending to stay level. Substitute Aitchison, Wareham, Danny Andrew and Ethan Bierley had efforts well blocked and Tickle made a vital save from Aitchison.

But with four minutes left Latics had a great chance to win the game. Kerr got free inside the six-yard box and met Jensen Weir’s left-sided corner, but his header was frustratingly wide of the target.

In added time Latics did get the ball in the Exeter net when Saydee fired home, but the goal was harshly disallowed for an alleged handball in the build-up and they had to settle for another draw.

Latics just aren’t getting any luck with crucial refereeing decisions this season.

Overview

This was Latics fifth draw in six away trips. A combination of poor refereeing decisions and a lack of a cutting edge has meant they have not accumulated as many points as they might have expected.

They could easily have had at least another six points which would’ve put them in eighth place in the table and within touching distance of the playoffs.

Lowe’s team are still very much a work in progress with plenty of room for improvement but they are also not far off being a decent team.

League One this season is a very tight division and a couple of back-to-back wins would shoot the club up the table.

If they can soon break their away day duck they are capable of making a push towards the playoffs.

Post match comments 

Afterwards Ryan Lowe spoke to the media. He said before the game he wanted a bit of consistency from referees and felt Latics had been hard done to against Exeter.

Lowe said “He was struggling for words for the decisions that go against us.“

“Having said that we had two glorious chances, a set play and one in the second half to go and win the game.”

“I’m disappointed for our fans they pay all that money to come and watch us with their hard earned money and to come all that way and we don’t get the just rewards.”

“Overall it’s a point but I want more.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com

Posted in Callum Wright, Exeter City, Jayden Wareham, League One, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics outplayed but survive in the cup – Wigan Athletic 1 Hemel Hempstead Town 1 (AET Wigan win 5-3 on pens). FA Cup 1st Round.

Posted on November 2, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Sam Tickle’s penalty save put Latics through
  • Wigan Athletic were very nearly dumped out of the FA Cup by National League South side Hemel Hempstead Town but were relieved to go through to the second round 5-3 after penalties.
  • Latics took a first half lead on 25 minutes when Callum Wright finished from close range from Paul Mullin’s low cross.
  • The visitors dominated the second half after substitute Matt Smith was red- carded on 61 minutes for a pull on Millar Mathews-Lewis and from the spot-kick Joe White equalised.
  • The hosts only survived due to some last ditch defending and important saves from Sam Tickle. The visitors also hit the woodwork but were unable to make their numerical advantage count.
  • Latics were given a lifeline when substitute Callum McManaman was brought down in the box but from the resulting penalty Mullin could only blaze over the crossbar.
  • Neither side could break the deadlock in extra time so the tie went to penalties. Latics scored all five in the shoot-out, with goalkeeper Tickle saving Adi Azeez’s effort to send lucky Latics through to the second round.

Ryan Lowe made two changes from last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Mansfield Town, with James Carragher replacing Will Aimson and Mullin replacing Smith.

Latics controlled the game in the early stages but were unable to create any clear-cut chances until the 25th minute when Wright broke the deadlock when he converted Mullin’s cross from close range.

Latics were playing too much tippy-tappy stuff in their own defence and they nearly came a cropper when a poor back pass from midfield left Fox in trouble, sliding across to clear the ball, but only into the feet of Jevani Brown.

The forward found space down by the corner before whipping in a cross. Millar Matthews-Lewis cushioned the ball, before his close-range shot was saved by Tickle.

The visitors George Williams then tried his luck from distance, his free-kick curling around the wall and forcing a good save from Tickle.

At the other end, Joe Hungbo’s cross fell to Fraser Murray, whose far-post volley was saved by Johnson.

Latics were seemingly in control at half- time although they hadn’t played particularly well in the first half.

Lowe introduced Smith and McManaman for Cooper and Wright on 56 minutes.

But on 61 minutes Smith was shown a straight red for a shirt pull on Millar Mathews-Lewis inside the box. 

The resulting penalty was converted by White to draw the visitors level.

Latics were now in disarray and Hemel Hempstead took control of the game.

But the hosts were given a lifeline when substitute McManaman went down inside the box.

The normally reliable Mullin stepped up to take the penalty, but blazed his spot-kick over the crossbar.

It now looked like there was only going to be one winner with the visitors pressing forward and Latics defending in depth.

Williams went close for the visitors, his header at the far post bouncing off the side netting.

Olatunbosun Adenola produced a superb strike from just inside the Latics half which looked goal bound but Tickle made a great diving save to deny what would’ve been the winner.

Latics were hanging on by their fingertips in normal time and in a crazy goalmouth scramble the visitors hit the crossbar before Aimson made a game-saving clearance to keep the hosts in the Cup.

Neither team gained the upper hand in the 30 minutes of extra time but Darion Dorwich went closest for the visitors firing the ball into the side netting.

Extra time ended with the scores level and the tie went to penalties.

Latics scored all their spot-kicks with McManaman, Kerr, Aimson, Saydee, and Fox successfully converting and Tickle making a brilliant save to keep out Azeez’s penalty to take the relieved hosts through to the second round.

Overview 

Latics are very lucky to still be in the FA Cup. Hemel Hempstead were the much better team and deserved to go through but Latics somehow survived and won on penalties.

Going down to 10 men clearly hampered Latics’ cause but they were outfought and outplayed for long periods of the game. 

The visitors had enjoyed more possession and had 17 shots to the hosts seven.

Hemel Hempstead Town are part-time professionals and deserve great credit for their performance but Latics players need to take a close look at themselves as they were second best for much of the game. 

Worryingly Ryan Lowe seemed clueless when looking for solutions to counteract Hemel Hempstead’s second half dominance. Tactically he had no answer to the visitors dominance of possession. 

At the moment Latics struggle to build up from the back and apart from the long balls seem incapable of building attacks from midfield. 

Unfortunately there now seems to be a disconnect between what the players do on the pitch and what the manager wants them to do.

Post match comments

Lowe was honest in his analysis afterwards. He held a post-match huddle pitchside in front of the home supporters at the Brick Community Stadium, and speaking to the media he provided an insight into how he wants his players to use the match as motivation to improve. 

“They had a desire and commitment to keep the ball out of the back of the net with ten men,” he said.

“We’re here to bring the good times back to this Football Club, and excite the fans. I know the fans were frustrated – but when we were hanging on, they got behind the lads.

“I know and understand that the performance wasn’t up to the level. After we scored, we didn’t go on to do what we should’ve done and get more goals.

“Fair play to Hemel Hempstead – they had a right good go. The things in the huddle that I said are that I want the players to be better.

“We can’t let people down, and at the moment, we’re taking two steps forward and a step back. We need to be consistent.

“Hemel Hempstead were fantastic and went about their business in the right way. They’ll be aggrieved that they haven’t gone through, but I am pleased for my lads because they put everything on the line to make sure we got through.

“It wasn’t pretty, it wasn’t nice. We need to be better, and in the huddle, there was a lot of stuff mentioned by me because I want them to understand that the performance wasn’t good enough.

“They found a way with 10 men, and we’ve got to keep building. We’re building blocks at the moment, and we’ve got to keep doing that. We’re through, we’ve got to the next round. The performance was nowhere near the levels, but we found a way to get to the Second Round.”

Posted in FA Cup, Hemel Hempstead Town, Joe White, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Latics battle the Stags for a point – Mansfield Town 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on October 26, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Ollie Cooper fires home Latics equaliser

Ollie Cooper fires home Latics’ equaliser. Photo courtesy of Wigan Athletic.

  • Wigan Athletic came from behind to draw 1-1 with Mansfield Town at the One Call Stadium.
  • In a lacklustre first half the Stags went ahead when Nathan Miriam-Welsh right wing cross found Will Evans at the back post and he drilled his shot past Sam Tickle.
  • Latics were much improved in the second half and it looked like they had equalised on 53 minutes when Will Aimson volleyed home from a corner. But referee Seb Stockbridge controversially disallowed the goal for a push by Christian Saydee in the box.
  • Latics were not to be denied however and Ollie Cooper drew Latics level five minutes later when fired home from Morgan Fox’s through ball.
  • The Stags tried to regain the lead and they forced a succession of corners but Latics held firm to gain another point on the road.
  • Latics are now in 13th place and Mansfield are in eighth place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made one change from the victory against Port Vale with Jensen Weir replacing the suspended Dara Costelloe. James Carragher returned from injury and was named on the bench.

Latics started brightly and Matt Smith had an early sighter of the Mansfield goal but his shot went wide.

The visitors best chance of the half came when a Fraser Murray free-kick from the left nearly found Aimson at the back post but he was inches away from making contact.

The Stags went ahead on 32 minutes when Nathan Miriam-Welsh right wing cross found Will Evans at the back post and he drilled his shot past Sam Tickle.

It was an underwhelming first half by Latics and most people expected changes at half-time but Lowe persisted with the same line-up, and fortunately they were much improved in the second half.

Aimson thought he brought the game back level when he volleyed Murray’s cross home, but the goal was controversially disallowed by referee Stockbridge for an alleged foul in the box by Saydee.

Latics were not be denied however and they deservedly made their pressure count and equalised in the 58th minute.

Cooper scored his first goal for the club when he latched onto Fox’s through ball powering his strike into the bottom corner past Liam Roberts.

Latics were now on top and looking to take the lead but the hosts went very close when substitute Regan Hendry’s strike from the edge of the box took a deflection off Fox and struck the outside of the post. 

Both sides battled for possession and the game became quite scrappy. Asamoah Junior replaced Cooper on 79 minutes, Paul Mullin replaced Saydee on 82 minutes and James Carragher replaced Wright in added time. 

The Stags exerted late pressure and forced a succession of corners but Latics held firm to gain another point on the road.

Overview

Latics produced a disappointing first half performance which had lacked any real attacking threat. They had clearly set up to defend against Nigel Clough’s in-form team who were looking to move nearer the play-off zone.

Latics second half performance was much improved and if it had not been for referee Stockbridge they might have come away with all three points. Latics have not had any luck with referees this season and this was another example of where they were hard done to.

Having watched the incident back several times it’s hard to understand Stockbridge’s decision. Saydee was battling for position with two Mansfield defenders one of whom threw himself to the floor and referee Stockbridge duly obliged and disallowed a perfectly good goal by Aimson.

Lowe’s men had showed good resilience in the latter stages of the second half and it was important that they did not concede despite some late Mansfield pressure.  The backline performed to a high standard with Morgan Fox probably having his best game in Latics colours. 

Worryingly Latics still haven’t won away from home this season. If they are to have a successful season the sooner they can get that away win the better.

Next up for Lowe’s men is a potential banana skin against Hemel Hempstead Town in the FA Cup. The manager must field his strongest team against the non-league outfit. The players mustn’t be complacent and they must ensure they make progress in a competition the club is famous for. 

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Lowe praised the character of his team and believes that elusive first win on the road is just around the corner.

“I thought the lads were excellent, especially in the second half,” he told the media.

“We should’ve won if truth be known. I’m not going to beat around the bush; it’s an outstanding set-play, and we’ve been undone by a decision that was never a foul.

“The lads showed real guts and desire to get back in the game, and keep the back door shut. We knew they were going to throw everything at us.

“The first half was even, and we were done after we got bodies forward too soon and didn’t secure the ball.

“We told them that they needed to get up to the ball better in the second half, and be on the front foot more. They did that in the second half for large parts until they put the pressure on after our goal.

“I can’t complain – I would’ve loved three, but it’s a point in the right direction. 

“As always, the fans were rallying us through. That’s what the players need – and the fans understand that. I believe the away win is definitely coming.”

Player ratings

Player ratings Mansfield away

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in League One, Mansfield Town, Ollie Cooper, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic, Will Evans | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Ten-man Tics back to winning ways – Wigan Athletic 1 Port Vale 0

Posted on October 19, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Asamoah Junior scored his first league goal
  • Ten-man Wigan Athletic halted their poor run of form with a deserved 1-0 against Port Vale at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • In an evenly fought first half Latics had the best chance in the 41st minute when Dara Costelloe was in a great position to score but his strike was deflected for a corner.
  • Three minutes later and Latics were down to ten men when Costelloe attempted an overhead kick and caught Kyle John in the face and he was dismissed for dangerous play.
  • Ryan Lowe made two changes at half time with Jensen Weir and Asamoah Junior replacing Callum Wright and Olly Cooper and the changes helped to galvanise Latics.
  • They made the breakthrough in the 56th minute when Asamoah Junior took advantage of a misdirected header by Ronan Curtis to slot past Joe Gauci via a slight deflection.
  • The ten men were resolute and the visitors were unable to create any clear-cut chances to equalise.
  • It was a first league win for Latics since the 13th September and Vale’s first league defeat since 6th September.
  • Latics move up to 13th and the Valiants are in 18th place in the League One Table.

Ryan Lowe made four changes to his starting lineup from the defeat against Wycombe with Morgan Fox, Callum Wright, Dara Costelloe and Joe Hungbo replacing Stephen Sessegnon, Luke Robinson, Raphael Borges Rodrigues and Paul Mullin.

Lowe’s men started strongly and they had early chance when Costelloe, inside the six-yard box, almost managed to poke the ball beyond Gauci in the Port Vale goal. 

At the other end former Latic striker Devante Cole played in Dajuane Brown, who was denied by a crucial last-ditch block from Fox.

Latics then threatened when Fraser Murray’s corner was well met by Will Aimson, and his header forced Gauci into a good save.

The hosts best chance of the half fell to Costelloe. The striker was in a great position to score in the centre of the box but his strike was deflected for a corner.

Soon afterwards Costelloe was harshly shown a straight red card by referee Ross Martin. The striker attempted an overhead kick and accidentally caught Kyle John. There was clearly no malice in the action and a yellow card should’ve been sufficient punishment but the striker had to leave the field.

The Latics manager made two positive changes at the break which would prove crucial. Weir and Asamoah Junior replacing Wright and Cooper.

Asamoah Junior was to break the deadlock in the 56th minute. The substitute took advantage of a misdirected header by Curtis to slot past Gauci via a slight deflection for his first league goal of the season.

Latics weren’t going to sacrifice the lead easily and they battled all over the pitch to retain their advantage. It was a committed and characterful second half display by Lowe’s men.

The visitors were unable to create any chances although substitute Mo Faal did head over with five minutes remaining.

Despite seven minutes of added time the visitors were unable to create any real opportunities and Latics recorded their first victory in five weeks.

Overview

There was big relief amongst Latics players, manager and fans that they had got back to winning ways.

It had been a dreadful run of form and some people had questioned the players commitment and Lowe’s ability to manage.

The controversial red card for Costelloe and manager’s half-time changes had clearly galvanised the team and their determination not to be beaten.

This performance demonstrated that the players are committed to the cause and that the manager is capable of turning the club around.

Only time will tell, but this could prove to be a major turning point in Latics’ season.

Post match comments 

Afterwards Ryan Lowe spoke to the media and was immediately proud of his side’s character and spirit after they defeated Port Vale with ten men.

It was a real showing of togetherness and grit at the Brick Community Stadium, as Latics fought as a collective to end their winless run against the odds.

“I just said to the lads that I am more drained than them, and they played 97 minutes,” he joked.

“That’s on the players today – it was brilliant. The attitude, application, desire, and commitment were brilliant from the word go. 

“The sending off hindered the game in what we were trying to do. I don’t think it’s a red card – Dara (Costelloe) couldn’t even see the kid, so it was a tough decision to take. 

“Going into half-time, I had a feeling that we could change something. I didn’t want to just go with one striker on the pitch – we took the two eights off and knew we were going to be in a battle.

“When Maleace (Asamoah) comes on the pitch, he terrifies defenders when he does the basics well.

“I thought the lads overall were fantastic. The desire and commitment to head and kick everything, and defend like they did, was different class.

“Tough times don’t last, tough players do. We’ve been through a tough time, and we’ve had to pick the lads up. They’ve had a patch where they’ve not been happy with parts of performances – conceding goals and losing games is hard to take.

“Your week is ruined until you start getting back to basics, but I thought this week in training was fantastic. 

“I knew from last Tuesday, when we really started to put the game plan together for Port Vale, I could feel something good. 

“The standards rose with each other. 

They’ve been a fantastic group to work with, and we’re going to go through bumps in the road, but hopefully we’ve got out of a big one.

“All the credit goes to the players. They were fantastic. 

“Fair play to the group. That result is on them – they performed to the levels. For the lads to fight for the badge and for our fans was phenomenal. 

“I thought the fans were fantastic by the way – fair play for them for really getting behind the group, and they take a big part in that win. 

“I was passionate towards the end, as it hurts me as well as them. I am the Head Coach of this fantastic Football Club, and we want to take it on a good journey.

“We’ve got some games now where we can potentially back it up.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Asamoah Junior, League One, Port Vale, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , | 6 Comments