Latics shock the promotion-chasing Bantams to stay out of the drop zone – Wigan Athletic 2 Bradford City 0

Posted on March 15, 2026 by ianhaspinall
An encouraging attendance at The Brick
  • Wigan Athletic recorded a vital three points in their battle to avoid relegation defeating fourth placed Bradford City 2-0 at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics went ahead in the 20th minute when Brighton loanee Caylan Vickers finished into the top corner from the corner of the six-yard box.
  • The Bantams enjoyed plenty of possession but they were unable to penetrate a well-drilled Latics defence.
  • The hosts doubled their lead when prolific striker Joe Taylor produced a brilliant solo run and finish on 78 minutes.
  • Bradford huffed and puffed but couldn’t reduce the deficit and Latics comfortably saw out the final minutes to stay out of the relegation zone.
  • Latics are now in 20th place and the Bantams in fourth place in the table.

Gary Caldwell made four changes from their midweek defeat to Plymouth with Llyton Chapman, Raphael Borges Rodrigues, Callum Wright, and Caylan Vickers replacing Luke Robinson, Callum McManaman, Matt Smith, and Christian Saydee. 

Latics started brightly and created a couple of chances in the opening 10 minutes. 

First Wright drove into the box and saw an effort blocked and away for a corner before Owen Moxon fed Vickers on the edge of the box, who took one touch and dragged a shot narrowly wide. 

Latics made their pressure count on 20 minutes when Fraser Murray cut the ball back to Vickers who took one touch on the edge of the six-yard box before rifling it into the top corner. 

The visitors enjoyed plenty of possession but rarely looked like equalising in a closely fought first half.

The Bantams introduced two former Latics men at half time with Paul Mullin and Stephen Humphrys joining the fray.

Mullin chased down a loose ball and almost found Jenson Metcalfe, but Sam Tickle was quickly off his line to make a superb interception to smother the danger.

The hosts continued to match with their high flying opponents throughout the 96 minutes. 

They also possess great quality in the final third with the prolific striker Taylor.

The Huddersfield loanee produced an accomplished finish for Latics second goal.

Taylor won the ball near the halfway line and drove forward outwitting the defenders before deceiving goalkeeper Sam Walker with a first time finish into the bottom corner with the outside of his boot.

The goal gave Latics a cushion and they comfortably saw out the final minutes to record an important victory and stay out of the relegation zone.

Overview

This was a much improved performance by Latics from the midweek defeat to Plymouth.

The two loanees Vickers and Taylor grabbed the goals and were impressive throughout.

Caldwell made a big call by making four changes to the team and giving Vickers his first start in a Latics shirt.

The Brighton loanee repaid Caldwell by score the opening goal with a fine finish.

Taylor once again showed his quality with a brilliant run and finish. His sixth goal in the last eight games. It seems incredible that Huddersfield allowed him to leave on loan.

Overall Caldwell’s men were combative all over the pitch with the backline of Chapman, Will Aimson and Jason Kerr giving a solid defensive display.

Caldwell has instilled a determination and fighting spirit into the team along with his tactical tweaks. The signs are promising that they can escape the drop if they can maintain this level of performance.

The attendance of 16,710 (4,609Away) was noticeably much better than in recent times. The atmosphere was therefore much improved.

Obviously the initiative of offering a free ticket to bring a friend had an impact. Hopefully any newcomers will have enjoyed the game and will come back again in the near future.

League One table

Post-match comments 

Speaking to the media afterwards, Caldwell was delighted with the manner of his team’s reaction.

“I am delighted with the reaction,” he said.

“We weren’t happy with Tuesday with how we performed, and I thought the way we dealt with it as a group and the accountability we showed to do something about it today was brilliant.

“The test came at 3 o’clock, and I thought the players were absolutely brilliant today against a very good team.”

Caldwell was also full of praise for Bradford, acknowledging the quality of the opposition his side had to overcome.

“I have seen Bradford a lot – and they’ve done exceptionally well this year. They are a difficult team to beat,” he added.

“I said that at half-time that this team won’t go away and keep coming, and we had to stand up to real pressure in the first 25 minutes.”

Latics eventually doubled their advantage through a fine finish from Joe Taylor, a moment Caldwell felt helped settle the contest.

“Joe then scored a brilliant second goal, which really calmed the nerves. It was a huge win for us.”

Reflecting further on the team’s reaction following Tuesday’s defeat, Caldwell highlighted the accountability shown throughout the Football Club.

“In life, nothing is easy. You sometimes have little dips and things that go against you, and what determines success in that moment is how you respond.

“I thought the whole Club – the players and staff – accepted responsibility for that performance and didn’t hide behind it.

“The reaction was first class. There will be other dips along the way that we have to recover from, and today was a brilliant reaction and result.”

Despite the importance of the victory, the Head Coach was quick to stress that the focus must now turn to maintaining that level, starting with Tuesday’s trip to Oakwell.

“It is only one game – and we now have to back it up, which is the challenge now.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Bradford City, Caylan Vickers, Gary Caldwell, Joe Taylor, League One | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics go into drop zone after a pummelling by the Pilgrims – Wigan Athletic 0 Plymouth Argyle 3

Posted on March 11, 2026 by ianhaspinall
Joe Taylor was a threat throughout
  • Wigan Athletic slipped back into the relegation zone after a 3-0 defeat to in form Plymouth Argyle at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Joe Taylor nearly gave Latics an early lead when he fired over after a brilliant mazey run had outwitted the Pilgrims’ defence.
  • The visitors went ahead on 38 minutes when goalkeeper Sam Tickle dropped the ball at the feet of Bim Pepple who forced the ball home from close range.
  • Two minutes later Pepple doubled the lead from 15 yards as Latics defence went to sleep.
  • Latics were denied a clear penalty in the second half when Taylor’s strike on goal was diverted away by a defender.
  • Soon afterwards Argyle added a third with Latics defence at sixes and sevens, Caleb Watts finished from 12 yards on 71 minutes. 
  • The hosts were completely out of luck on 83 minutes when Taylor’s strike beat the goalkeeper, but came back off the crossbar.
  • Latics are now in 21st place and Argyle are now in 10th place in the League One table.

Gary Caldwell made three changes to the team that drew at Blackpool with Matt Smith, Callum McManaman and Luke Robinson replacing Raphael, Llyton Chapman and the ineligible Callum Wright.

After a slow opening to the game the visitors threatened first when Alex Mitchell found himself free inside the box, but he headed his effort wide of the post from ten yards out.

Soon afterwards Taylor so nearly gave Latics an early lead lead when he fired over after a brilliant mazey run had outwitted the Pilgrims defence.

Disaster struck Latics on 38 minutes when following a free-kick goalkeeper Tickle uncharacteristically dropped the ball at the feet of Pepple who forced the ball home from close range.

Two minutes later Pepple doubled the lead from 15 yards as Latics defence went to sleep.

Malachi Boateng broke down the right, before rolling the ball into the path of Pepple, who finished a close-range strike into the top corner.

Caldwell made changes at half time with Joe Hungbo and Harrison Bettoni replacing Smith and McManaman.

Bettoni threatened on the hour when forced save out of Luca Ashby-Hammond when his free-kick was parried away for a corner.

Latics were denied a clear penalty in the second half when Taylor’s strike on goal was diverted away by a defender.

Soon afterwards Argyle added a third goal with Latics defence at sixes and sevens. Some chaotic defending resulted in Fraser Murray diverting the ball onto the post, before it eventually fell to Watts, who finished into bottom corner from 12 yards out.

Substitute Caylan Vickers set up Taylor in the dying minutes but his strike beat the goalkeeper, but came back off the crossbar.

It was just not to be Latics or Taylor’s night, on another occasion the on-loan striker might’ve had a hat-trick.

Overview

This was a very disappointing performance by Latics against a strong and forceful Argyle team.

Latics appeared disjointed from the kick off with Caldwell clearly agitated with his players from the touch line.

The changes the Head Coach had made, some enforced and some tactical, had not been beneficial.

The ineligible Callum Wright and the injured Morgan Fox and James Carragher were notable absentees as Latics struggled against Tom Cleverley’s powerful Pilgrims.

Christian Saydee continues to disappoint as a striker and the only bright light was the performance of Joe Taylor.

Taylor was a big threat throughout and on another night he might’ve had a hat-trick. 

The hosts were also unlucky not to be awarded a penalty when Taylor’s strike was clearly handled by a defender.

Latics must now quickly regroup and hope to bounce back against Bradford City at the Brick on Saturday.

League One Table

Post-match comments 

Afterwards Caldwell spoke to the media and said “It was a really frustrating game – and a poor performance overall.”

“We didn’t get going in that first half. I just said to the players that we win together, and we lose together, and that we all take responsibility.

“As the Head Coach, I pick the team, and we have to get back to the drawing board. 

“We knew this game was going to be difficult, and it’s a bump in the road that we have to recover from quickly because we are back here on Saturday.

“We need to look in the mirror, learn from the game, and come back stronger and ready to win a game of football on Saturday.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Bim Pepple, Caleb Watts, Gary Caldwell, Joe Taylor, League One, Plymouth Argyle | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics make an important point in the relegation battle – Blackpool 1 Wigan Athletic 1 

Posted on March 8, 2026 by ianhaspinall
Owen Moxon equalised
  • Wigan Athletic came back from 1-0 down to gain an important point at Blackpool in the relegation battle at the bottom of League One.
  • The Seasiders went ahead on four minutes from a Jordan Brown free-kick when Oliver Casey headed past Sam Tickle from eight yards.
  • Latics drew level on 39 minutes when Owen Moxon fired into the bottom corner from the edge of the area.
  • The visitors came closest to grabbing all three points when Joe Taylor produced an electric run and shot which hit the far post and rolled along the goal line before being collected by a relieved Bailey Peacock-Farrell.
  • Latics are now in 19th place and the Seasiders are in 20th place in the League One table.

Gary Caldwell made two changes to the side from last week’s win over Huddersfield, with Llyton Chapman coming in for his full debut to replace the injured Morgan Fox and Joe Taylor replacing Dara Costelloe.

Blackpool started on the front foot and were ahead after only four minutes when Brown’s free-kick from the right was invitingly delivered for Casey to head past Tickle.

Initially Latics were struggling for any cohesion but they gradually worked themselves into contention. Fraser Murray was posing a threat down the right, and Taylor was keeping the hosts’ defence on their toes.

Latics got back in the game when Raphael played Taylor in on goal, but as Peacock-Farrell closed him down he took it wide and returned it to Rodrigues again.

The wide man took a touch and set the ball inside for Moxon, who finished into the bottom corner of the net to draw Latics level.

Very early in the second half Latics went closest to taking the lead.

Taylor produced an electric run and shot which hit the far post and rolled along the goal line before being collected by a relieved Peacock-Farrell.

Taylor then almost turned provider for Wright, who, in a similar position to Taylor, struck at goal, but the Seasiders managed to clear.

Blackpool had a rare strike at goal on 70 minutes after a long ball upfield from Peacock-Farrell allowed Karoy Anderson the opportunity to shoot but his shot sailed wide after taking a deflection. 

Substitute Joe Hungbo produced a couple of dangerous crosses but no Latics player could capitalise.

Ian Evatt’s team enjoyed some late possession but they didn’t look like penetrating the Latics rearguard and the points had to be shared.

Jimmy Armfield Mural

Overview

Latics weren’t at their best at Bloomfield Road but they showed good resilience after going a goal behind and battled well for a point.

They started the game tentatively and allowed the Seasiders an early advantage but as the first half progressed they came more into the game.

Moxon’s goal gave Latics a boost and they created a couple of good opportunities in the second half with Taylor predominant.

Unfortunately Saydee and Raphael had limited impact and were withdrawn in the second half. Both players will need to improve significantly if they are to keep their places in the starting XI. Saydee won very few headers and was unable to link up play and Raphael made some basic errors and gave the ball away too often.

Caldwell will be pleased that his team came away from the seaside with a point and they maintained their advantage over Blackpool in the league table but he also recognised that they must continue to improve if they are to stave off relegation.

Post-match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards, Caldwell said, 

“It was a really hard, well-earned point. It was a disappointing start after we said about starting the game well, and I thought we looked a little tentative and gave a poor goal away from a set-piece, which we have to get better at.

“I thought we scored a brilliant goal just before half-time and created the better chances in the second half, but I think the reaction to going a goal behind, the players deserve a lot of credit, and a point is probably a fair result.” 

On the supporters, after they brought energy and showed their support for the players:

“They were brilliant. They want to come and see their team win, but we did everything to give them something. They showed their appreciation to the players at the end, and we thank them for their energy and the noise they brought today.

“It’s a quick turnaround – I said it to the players – they need to recover, our supporters need to recover and come out again on Tuesday night.” 

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Blackpool, Gary Caldwell, League One, Oliver Casey, Owen Moxon | Tagged , , , , , | 9 Comments

Caldwell’s Latics upset the Terriers – Wigan Athletic 1 Huddersfield Town 0

Posted on March 1, 2026 by ianhaspinall
Full time at the Brick
  • Wigan Athletic defeated play-off chasing Huddersfield Town 1-0 to move out of the League One relegation zone at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics had to survive some concerted pressure from the Terriers who hit the post through Ryan Hardie, with Alfie May’s follow-up cleared off the line.
  • Bali Mumba then saw a shot hit the bar, with the rebound from May being superbly saved by Sam Tickle, and the second rebound from Marcus Harness being headed clear by Owen Moxon.
  • The hosts were much better in the second half with the introduction of wingback Joe Hungbo at half-time.
  • They went ahead on 61 minutes when following a corner Callum Wright found Jensen Weir on the edge of the penalty area and his low shot deflected off a defender through a crowded area past goalkeeper Lee Nicholls.
  • Tickle pulled off a fine save to deny Harness in the 90th minute and Gary Caldwell’s Latics held on for a crucial victory in their fight against relegation.
  • Latics are now in 19th place and the Terriers are in sixth place in the League One table.

Caldwell made four changes to the starting line-up from last week’s defeat at Stockport County, with Will Aimson, Moxon, Raphael and Dara Costelloe replacing Steven Sessegnon, who is suspended, Matt Smith, Joe Hungbo and the ineligible Joe Taylor.

Latics pressed high from the kick off and the first chance of the game fell to Dara Costelloe who latched onto Christian Saydee’s pass and tried to knock it past Lee Nicholls in the Terriers goal, but the former Latics goalkeeper smothered the ball.

The visitors were creating chances and nearly went ahead when Hardie hit the post with May’s follow-up cleared off the line. 

Latics enjoyed plenty of possession but Huddersfield were putting them under pressure in the final third. 

Mumba saw a shot hit the bar, with the rebound from May being superbly saved by Tickle, and the second rebound from Harness being headed clear by Moxon.

The half-time break allowed Caldwell to make tactical changes and replaced Raphael with Hungbo who quickly made an impact attacking down the left.

Costelloe created an opportunity for Saydee. Saydee took a touch one touch before striking towards goal, with the effort taking a deflection and going wide of the post. 

Latics were now on top. They forced a series of corners and from one of the corners Fraser Murray found Wright who cut the ball back to Weir whose low shot deflected off a defender through a crowded penalty area and past Nicholls.

Smith replaced Moxon and later the FA Cup hero Callum McManaman made a rare appearance and replaced Saydee as Latics strived to maintain their advantage.

In the 90th minute Tickle pulled off a vital save to deny Harness and despite six minutes of added time Latics held on for a crucial victory in their fight against relegation.

Overview

What a difference Caldwell has made to the club. Work-rate, desire and commitment cannot be faulted at the moment. They out-fought play-off chasing Huddersfield and deserved the three points.

Under Caldwell Latics are now playing higher up the pitch and putting the opposition under more pressure. They move the ball forward much more quickly and make the opposition have to work harder to defend.

The Caldwell, David Perkins, Peter Atherton and Graham Barrow coaching combo is working wonders for the Tics.

There’s still plenty of room for improvement particularly in forward areas but the changes the coaches have already implemented have been transformative.

In fact the difference between Caldwell and Ryan Lowe’s coaching is like chalk and cheese.

Post-match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards Caldwell enthused about his players.

“I’m really happy for the players. The effort they’ve put in the short period of time I’ve been here has been incredible, and that effort will take us a long, long way. 

“The players put everything on the line. I thought we played well in moments – we looked a bit open in moments, but sometimes, character, desire and hunger go a long way in football, and we had it in abundance today. 

Caldwell reviewed what a trying first 45 minutes at the Brick, though noted how well his men reacted in the second period en route to consecutive home wins for the first time since August.

“I thought we improved as we came back out. The little details we could show them at half-time really helped in the second half. 

“Even in the first half, I thought we had some good attacking moments. We played slightly differently today, and our understanding of that was very good. 

“The players deserve a lot of credit for taking in information, new information, and they’re taking that in, in a few days and applying it under pressure on a Saturday, which isn’t easy, but again I go back to character and desire, team spirit is taking us a long way at the minute. 

“Some of our play, especially in that second half, was very good. We were aggressive, we won the ball back high up the pitch, and we dominated the game in that second half.” 

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Gary Caldwell, Huddersfield Town, Jensen Weir, League One | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments

Joe Taylor’s brilliance is not enough for Latics – Stockport County 4 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on February 22, 2026 by ianhaspinall
Joe Taylor
  • In an end-to-end game nine-man Wigan Athletic succumbed to late pressure and were defeated 4-2 by Stockport County at Edgeley Park.
  • Latics took the lead after only two minutes when Joe Taylor picked up a loose pass and showed great composure to slot past Ben Hinchliffe.
  • County responded three minutes later when Brad Hills headed in Ollie Norwood’s free-kick from six-yards out.
  • Latics restored their advantage in the 11th minute, Taylor once again showing great quality getting in front of the defender and heading home Fraser Murray’s cross.
  • But the hosts drew level on 41 minutes when Adama Sidibeh got in front of Steven Sessegnon and headed in Jack Diamond’s cross.
  • In the second half the game changed in County’s favour when Sessegnon was harshly sent off by referee Matthew Corlett for a shirt pull and second bookable offence on the hour mark.
  • Latics eventually conceded in the 92nd minute of stoppage time as Wooton headed past Tickle.
  • The visitors went down to nine men when Asamoah Junior was dismissed in the 94th minute for a reckless challenge and Wootton added a fourth in the 100th minute.
  • Latics are now in 21st place and the Hatters are in fourth place in the League One table.

Gary Caldwell made three changes from the midweek victory over Luton Town, with Owen Moxon ineligible and Will Aimson and Raphael injured replaced by Steven Sessegnon, Matt Smith and Joe Hungbo. 

It was a high octane opening with two goals in the first five minutes. 

The Tics were ahead very early when Taylor picked up a loose pass in the middle of the pitch to drive towards goal. As Stockport tried to get back, the striker produced a composed finish, cutting back onto his left foot and slotting into the bottom left corner.

But Latics were soon undone as the hosts won themselves a free-kick in a dangerous area. Ollie Norwood whipped a curling ball into the danger zone, where Brad Hill relatively unchallenged headed past Sam Tickle from close range.

Latics regained the lead when Murray crossed from the left and Taylor got in front of his marker to head past Hinchcliffe. 

The visitors were now on top and creating chances. Christian Saydee picked up a loose ball and fired towards goal before Taylor nearly grabbed a hat-trick when he was through on goal but his back-heeled effort was denied by Hinchcliffe.

Stockport threatened when a corner routine found Ethan Pye for a strike at goal but Tickle reacted superbly to deny him.

Just before half-time Latics switched off and Stockport were level again. Diamond’s cross from the right reached Sidibeh, who got in front of Sessegnon and managed to direct his effort past Tickle. 

In the second half Wooton thtreatened with a header which was saved by Tickle. 

But the game turned in the hosts’ favouron the hour mark when Sessegnon was harshly penalised for a tug and referee Corlett gave a second yellow card and then red.

Latics were now under the cosh and they had to make several last-ditch challenges to keep out Stockport.

The hosts went close when Diamond floated a ball towards Tanto Olaofe, but he headed over the bar. 

Latics eventually succumbed to the pressure in the 92nd minute. 

Diamond crossed to the back post, where Wooton was waiting to head into the net.

Latics went down to nine men when Asamoah Junior was dismissed in the 94th minute for a reckless challenge and Wooton added a fourth in the 100th minute.

Overview

Joe Taylor gave Latics a fantastic start at Edgeley Park with an accomplished finish after only two minutes but the defence soon switched off and allowed the hosts a very quick equaliser.

Taylor then produced another quality finish with a fine header at the near post to restore the lead but the defence was again at fault for another equaliser.

Offensively Latics had been excellent in the first half with the Huddersfield loanee Taylor causing all kinds of problems for the hosts. 

Defensively Latics were vulnerable and unfortunately Sessegnon does not provide a physical presence in defence and the absence of Aimson and also the continued absence of James Carragher contributed to Latics defeat.

Referee Corlett didn’t do Latics any favours throughout and Sessegnon’s harsh dismissal was the big turning point in Stockport’s favour.

Overall Caldwell will be pleased with the work rate and forward play which had enabled them to match promotion chasing Stockport but the poor defending and indiscipline proved to be the difference between the two teams.

Latics go close from a Murray free-kick

Post-match comments 

Speaking to the media afterwards Caldwell said:

“I thought we were excellent in the first half; we started so well. I think we have to be leading at half-time, we have to come in leading that game with how well we played, going forward in particular. 

“The goals we concede are poor, and it’s definitely something we have to work on, but I thought the players were superb in the first half, and felt in the second half, the week took its toll on a squad that’s been hit with players missing.”

The Head Coach also spoke about the application and approach from his players following his first week in the job, and his optimism for the weeks ahead.

“I thought the players’ effort this week has been incredible, and I said we’ve got two big weeks ahead of us now where we need to work on the training ground to fix some of the problems we’ve got in our game.

“I can be pleased with the effort and commitment the players have shown this week. Everyone is fully engaged, and everyone is trying their best, which is great. 

“Now we have to get into the details on the training pitch and work on some of the parts of our game that need to be better. 

“There were so many positive parts to the game, some of the attacking play and some of our passing today were excellent in that first half against a side that is sitting in the top three or four in the league. We can take positives, but there are definitely areas we have to work on.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Adama Sidibeh, Brad Hills, Gary Caldwell, Joe Taylor, Kyle Wooton, Stockport County, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Caldwell gets off to a fine start – Wigan Athletic 1 Luton Town 0

Posted on February 19, 2026 by ianhaspinall
Gary Caldwell got off to a winning start
  • Wigan Athletic’s new Head Coach Gary Caldwell got off to a fine start as his team defeated Luton Town 1-0 at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Neither side created many opportunities in an evenly fought first half although the visitors Kasey Palmer curled a free-kick which forced an impressive save from Sam Tickle.
  • Latics were much improved in the second half and they threatened when Morgan Fox and Joe Taylor forced good saves from the Hatters goalkeeper Josh Keeley.
  • The hosts deservedly went ahead on 73 minutes when substitute Dara Costelloe fed Taylor, who produced a composed finish over the onrushing Keeley.
  • Latics nearly doubled their lead when substitute Joseph Hungbo’s superb cross found Costelloe but his effort cleared the bar from four yards out.
  • In the seventh minute of added time it looked as though Luton would equalise when they rained shots on the Latics goal but two goalline clearances by Fox and Will Aimson secured the hosts a first victory in eight games to move them out of the relegation zone.
  • Latics are now in 20th place and the Hatters are in ninth place in the League One table.

Gary Caldwell made one change from Sunday’s Emirates FA Cup defeat at Arsenal with Jack Hunt replaced by Christian Saydee.

Neither side gained the upper hand in the early stages.

The visitors went closest when Palmer stepped up to a free-kick after Isaiah Jones was brought down outside the 18-yard box, but Tickle pulled off an impressive save diving to his right.

Latics had a rare opportunity in the first half when Callum Wright burst forward and cut the ball back for Jensen Weir, but his strike was saved comfortably by Keeley. 

Latics were much improved in the second half. 

On 55 minutes Jensen Weir was brought down and from the resulting 30-yard free-kick Morgan Fox forced an impressive save from Keeley diving across to his right.

Latics were playing higher up the pitch now and closing down their opponents much more quickly.

They were looking more of threat going forward and Taylor fired an effort towards Keeley’s near post but the goalkeeper was equal to it.

Latics made the breakthrough in the 73rd minute when Murray won a header to find Costelloe who drove at the Luton defence before feeding Taylor who ran into the area and then chipped the ball over the onrushing Keeley. 

Luton then went close to equalising when Jordan Clark fired towards the top right corner of Tickle’s goal but it was narrowly wide of the target.

In added time substitute Hungbo produced a superb cross for the sliding Costelloe, but the striker could only lift the ball over the crossbar from close range.

In the seventh minute of added time it looked as though Luton would equalise when they rained shots on the Latics goal but two goalline clearances by Fox and Will Aimson secured the hosts a first victory in eight games to move them out of the relegation zone.

Overview

Latics’ fans have been hoping for a new manager bounce with the appointment of Gary Caldwell and it was secured with a hard-fought performance against play-off chasing Luton.

Caldwell and his coaching team have only had a couple of days to work with the players but the improvement in work-rate, determination and organisation was for all to see.

The players have been low in confidence under Ryan Lowe but it appears the new Head Coach is already having a big impact.

Latics have moved out of the relegation zone but they must continue the improvement if they are to pull away from the bottom four.

Latics have a difficult game at play-off chasing Stockport County on Saturday but with Caldwell and his new coaching team in post the future looks much more promising for the club.

Coaching Team: Peter Atherton, David Perkins, Gary Caldwell and Graham Barrow.

Post-match comments

Afterwards Caldwell spoke to the media and emphasised the importance of the win for the supporters, and his pride in the application and quality on display, particularly in the second half at the Brick Community Stadium.

“Incredible. A night for the supporters, they haven’t seen their team win enough this season, and they’ve seen their team really fight and give everything tonight to win the game. 

“I thought in the first half, they were a bit tentative in how we played, but very organised, we didn’t give them (Luton) many opportunities, and second half, I thought we were by far the better team. 

“We played really aggressively. We passed forward, we ran forward, we sustained attacks very well, and kept the ball in their half. Got a deserved goal and could’ve scored more in that period. 

“The last ten minutes, it was all hands on deck, everyone defending the goal, and keeping the ball out of the net. Really delighted for the team, it’s brilliant for them. They deserve that for how they’ve been since I’ve come in the building, and it’s something for us to build on now.” 

Caldwell emphasised how pleased he was with his side’s determination and fight to secure the victory after a tense finish in injury time.

“That was the desire, the character that you need to win games at this level. I thought we deserved that. We were the better team throughout the whole game overall, and we deserved that at the end. 

That attitude and mentality as a team will go a long way.”

The Head Coach was keen to praise his team’s attacking application and was pleased his men were able to produce a decisive moment of real quality in the final third that secured an important three points.

“I thought our press was very good tonight. There were moments in the first half, we didn’t quite tidy the ball and pass forward quickly enough. 

When we did in that instance, Dara’s (Costelloe) pass and his decision to pass, his quality of pass, and the quality of finish were sensational. 

That’s where you want Joe Taylor, in front of the goal. If we get him in that situation, he will score a lot of goals.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Gary Caldwell, Joe Taylor, League One, Luton Town | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Emirates exit for the Tics – Arsenal 4 Wigan Athletic 0 – FA Cup 4th Round

Posted on February 16, 2026 by ianhaspinall
A rare Latics attack at the Emirates Stadium
  • Wigan Athletic exited the FA Cup when they were defeated 4-0 by Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
  • Latics needed to keep it tight in the early stages but they conceded in the 11th minute when Eberechi Eze played a through ball for Noni Madueke who finished past Sam Tickle.
  • The hosts doubled their lead on 18 minutes when Eze provided another assist for Gabriel Martinelli to finish into the corner.
  • Matters got worse on 23 minutes when Jack Hunt headed into his own net as he tried to make a clearance.
  • It looked as though the Gunners would go on to get a big score as they added a fourth on 27 minutes. Christian Norgaard played in Gabriel Jesus and the striker chipped the ball over the advancing Tickle.
  • But Latics rallied and Kepa Arrizabalaga produced an excellent save to deny Joe Taylor from close range.
  • Latics continued to work hard in the second half to keep the score down and Arsenal also took their foot off the accelerator.
  • Tickle made some good saves and the Latics defenders made some important blocks and the score remained at 4-0.
  • The Premier League leaders deservedly advanced to the fifth round but Latics had acquitted themselves reasonably well given the difference in class and resources.

Latics’ Interim Head Coaches Glenn Whelan and Graham Barrow made three changes from the midweek defeat against Reading. Owen Moxon replaced Matt Smith in midfield, while Raphael and Joe Taylor replaced Harrison Bettoni and Christian Saydee.

Latics needed to keep it tight in the early stages but unfortunately they conceded in only the 11th minute when Eze played a through ball for Madueke who finished past Tickle. 

The Gunners doubled their lead on 18 minutes when Eze provided another assist for Martinelli to finish into the corner.

It was one-way traffic and the hosts added a third on 23 minutes when Hunt headed into his own net as he tried to make a clearance.

Latics just weren’t doing themselves any favours as they were allowing plenty of space behind the backline.

Arsenal were playing balls in behind and they added a fourth goal when another ball over the top found Jesus who took it down before clipping it over Tickle and into the net.

A rare Latics attack resulted in a chance for Taylor. The Huddersfield loanee was able to poke an effort at goal but Arrizabalaga made an excellent close range save.

The visitors knew they would have to be improved in the second half if they weren’t to be embarrassed by the hosts.

Substitute Viktor Gyokeres nearly increased the Gunners lead when he latched onto a through ball inside the box and struck towards goal but Will Aimson did well to divert the ball onto the post and away to safety.

Latics continued to work hard throughout the second half to keep the score down and Arsenal also took their foot off the accelerator.

Tickle had to make several important saves and the defenders made some last ditch blocks.

The score remained at 4-0, Arsenal comfortably progressed to the FA Cup fifth round and Latics exited the competition.

Overview

Arsenal away was probably the hardest draw of the FA Cup fourth round. The Premier League leaders are in fine form and have strength in great depth.

Latics are currently in disarray after the sacking of Ryan Lowe and the difference between the two sides was for all to see in the first half hour at the Emirates.

The hosts were too sharp, quick and skilful for the League One strugglers.

Latics just weren’t doing themselves any favours as they were allowing plenty of space behind the backline which the Gunners quickly exploited.

Latics are low in confidence and some poor defending had not helped their cause.

It could easily have been a double figures defeat but Latics were improved in the second half and they defended much better.

The Premier League leaders deservedly advanced to the next round but Latics had acquitted themselves reasonably well given the difference in class and resources.

The priority now is to get a new management team in place and to initiate the great escape from the League One relegation zone.

Post-match comments

Afterwards interim Head Coach Whelan spoke to the media.

“After half an hour, everyone was holding their breath to see if it would be a cricket score,” Whelan admitted. 

“A lot of credit has to go to the lads. At half-time, we had a chat and spoke about rectifying and trying to work a way out of the situation.

“It was tough, but we dug in really well, and the lads put in a great shift.

“We had a game plan – we wanted to be nice and compact, but one or two lads jumped out of shape trying to get after the players, and the quality Arsenal have, they punish you with every mistake.

“We were 4-0 down at half-time, which wasn’t great, but we spoke about building blocks for the last 16 games, and I think the second half is something we can take credit for.

“We showed a little bit of guts when other teams would’ve folded. 

“You can never question the lads’ willingness to work hard and fight for the badge and fans. There is a lack of quality at times throughout the group, but it’s not from a lack of endeavour. 

“It’s a great learning curve for everyone – staff included – to come and play at a place like this.

“At times, we caught them on the break, and Joe (Taylor) could’ve scored on another day.

“Our season starts on Wednesday. It’s a 16-game season – we need to fight, battle, and get some wins on the board.

“We need to turn our form around to have a fighting chance of staying up. 

We don’t believe we are going to get down, but we now need to stop talking and putting in performances that are good for the fans.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Arsenal, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Glenn Whelan, Jack Hunt, Noni Madueke, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Review – The Power and the Glory: A New History of the World Cup by Jonathan Wilson

Posted on February 12, 2026 by ianhaspinall

The Power and the Gory - A New History of the World Cup cover

Jonathan Wilson’s comprehensive history of the World Cup is not just about football. During the five hundred plus pages he makes a strong case that the story of the World Cup is also the story of the world. 

Wilson explains, “It is a book about the World Cup, about great players, about great goals, great matches, but it is also about football as a tool for self-projection and for influence-peddling, about the role it increasingly plays as countries negotiate their positions in a globalised world. From its inception, the World Cup has been a vehicle for far more than football.”

The founder of the World Cup, Jules Rimet believed that sport could unite the world, but unfortunately the World Cup has always been exploited for other means.  

Long before sportswashing, long before Russia and Qatar had shown you that you didn’t have to win the tournament to gain a propaganda success, that hosting it was enough, the World Cup was being exploited. Every host has tried to use the tournament as an expression of self-confidence or modernity, or just to prove that they are relevant, a central part of a broader community.

It has been claimed that the World Cup put Uruguay on the map, reintegrated post-war West Germany into the global community and ended racism in France. These assertions are all nonsense of course, but that doesn’t mean that the assertions are not revealing about the people and cultures that made them.

Wilson states, “Football does matter, does offer insights, often unconscious into the desires and doubts of a culture, never more so than during the World Cup.” 

As you would expect Wilson covers every World Cup from 1930 to 2022, he delves into the origins of each tournament, the political drivers and the impacts of the tournaments as well as the key matches, players and officials.

Wilson and many others believe that from a purely football perspective the 1970 World Cup in Mexico was the most memorable. Carlos Alberto’s iconic fourth goal for Brazil against Italy capped off a superlative final victory. “For many, it’s the greatest goal scored by the greatest team in the greatest World Cup, a glorious synthesis of team play and individual technical excellence. “

Wilson summarises, “Ever since, there has been a sense of football trying to recapture the spirit of 1970, that feeling of rapturous and perhaps impossible excitement.”

‘The Power and the Glory’ is an impressive history. An epic production, impactful and extensively researched, offering new insights into football’s greatest tournament. 

It is also a great preparation for the upcoming World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA, which is likely to be one of the most controversial in the tournament’s history. 

The Power and the Glory: A New History of the World Cup by Jonathan Wilson. Published by Abacus Books. Price £25.

This review first appeared in the March/April 2026 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in Football Book Reviews, Jonathan Wilson, Late Tackle magazine, World Cup | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Latics suffer late heartache – Wigan Athletic 1 Reading 2

Posted on February 11, 2026 by ianhaspinall
Joe Taylor grabbed an equaliser
  • Despite an improved performance Wigan Athletic suffered a late 2-1 defeat to former manager Leam Richardson’s Reading at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • It looked as though Latics had gone ahead when Harrison Bettoni produced a fine angled finish on four minutes but his strike was ruled out for offside.
  • Latics showed more determination than in recent games but they fell behind early in the second half when Jeriel Dorsett headed home from close range.
  • Substitute Joe Taylor poached Latics level on 66 minutes from Fraser Murray’s left-wing cross.
  • Fellow substitute Raphael produced a superb run and shot which was tipped around the post by Joel Pereira as Latics searched for a winner.
  • But it was Reading who sealed the three points with four minutes remaining when Paudie O’Connor headed home a right-wing free-kick from six yards.
  • Latics are now in 21st place and Reading are in 11th place in the League One table.

Interim Head Coach’s Graham Barrow and Glenn Whelan made five changes to the side that faced Peterborough at the weekend, including the return of captain Jason Kerr. Jensen Weir returned for Owen Moxon, while Fraser Murray, Harrison Bettoni, and Christian Saydee replaced Joe Hungbo, Raphael and Joe Taylor. 

Latics started brightly and they thought they’d gone ahead after just four minutes when Bettoni produced a fine angled finish past Pereira, but the flag was up for offside.

Bettoni then had another chance when played through by Matt Smith but he fired wide of the target.

The Royals threatened just before the half-time whistle when a host of shots came in from Haydon Roberts and Jack Marriott, but Will Aimson made some heroic blocks to save Latics.

The final chance of the half fell to Callum Wright on the edge of the area who hit a half volley just over the bar. 

Early in the second half the Royals broke the deadlock when Kamasi Doyle’s cross found Dorsett at the back post, who was was able to head into back of the net. 

Soon afterwards Doyle tried his luck from the edge of the area before Lewis Wing had a similar effort fly over the crossbar.

Substitutes Taylor and Dara Costelloe replaced Saydee and Bettoni on 56 minutes. 

It was Taylor who showed his goal poaching skills to draw Latics level on 66 minutes.

Murray cut inside and floated a cross into the danger zone and Taylor nipped in front of Pereira and cleverly flicked the ball into the net.

Latics went close soon afterwards when a quick free-kick set Raphael free, the Coventry City loanee burst down the left, before striking a low effort at goal, which Pereira managed to tip around the post.

But Latics were to suffer late heartache as the visitors clinched the three points with just four minutes remaining.

A free-kick from the right was swung into the area by the Royals captain Wing, where O’Connor was waiting to rise and head into the far corner of the net. 

Latics next have the small matter of a trip to the Premier League leaders Arsenal in the FA Cup fourth round to contend with.

Overview

This was a much improved performance after Saturday’s debacle at Peterborough. From the kick off Latics were much more determined and competitive.

Interim Coach’s Barrow and Whelan had them well organised and returning captain Jason Kerr made a difference in defence.

Overall on the balance of play they probably deserved at least a draw but when you are struggling in the relegation zone luck can often go against you. 

Latics board are currently interviewing candidates to replace Ryan Lowe for the Head Coach role and whoever gets the role must quickly motivate and instil the confidence to pick up the points for survival. 

It’s imperative that the board make the right appointment at this time. Another bad appointment and Latics will be in League Two next season.

Latics have enough quality in the squad to survive, but they need someone who is not only a good coach but also someone who has real affinity with the club.

Of the current contenders Gary Caldwell is probably the best fit for the role.

Post-match comments

Interim Head Coach Barrow spoke to the media afterwards. He was disappointed that Latics didn’t pick up any points from the League One encounter. 

“Before the game, we were looking for a win. The way the game went, with them scoring the first goal, to come back to 1-1, you probably would’ve taken the draw,” he said.

“We did look like we could go on and win the game. It’s not luck that they scored the second goal, but more something that we have to put right.

“We’ve been soft in those areas, so we’ll work on that, but overall it was a real improvement in performance. That’s the most positive thing to come out of it.

“Reading are a decent side and coached well, but we had our own fair share of territory. 

“It’s just about improving in both boxes. In the second half, when Joe Taylor came on, there was a real positivity in attack

“I knew the fans would be behind us – it’s how it has got to be, but we have to give them something to shout about.

“It’s great when they are behind us, and looking forward, that’s the way it’s got to be. We have to stick together to get out of this trouble we are in.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Glenn Whelan, Graham Barrow, Jeriel Dorsett, Joe Taylor, League One, Leam Richardson, Paudie O'Connor, Reading | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Lowe is over and out – Peterborough United 6 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on February 8, 2026 by ianhaspinall
Ryan Lowe Wigan Athletic manager
Ryan Lowe belatedly departs the club
  • Wigan Athletic crashed to a 6-1 defeat to Peterborough United which resulted in the sacking of Head Coach Ryan Lowe. 
  • Latics were 2-0 down after only nine minutes as Kyrell Lisbie scored twice for the Posh with assists by Tom Lees.
  • Loanee Joe Taylor pulled a goal back for Latics on 27 minutes after good work by Callum Wright.
  • On 41 minutes a Jimmy-Jay Morgan header restored the Posh’s two goal advantage.
  • Harry Leonard made it 4-1 on 68 minutes when he headed home Morgan’s cross from close range.
    Substitute Pemi Aderoju made it 5-1 on 84 minutes.
  • The rout was completed in the 90th minute when some shambolic defending allowed Lisbie to complete his hat-trick and make it 6-1 to the hosts.
  • Latics drop into the relegation zone in 22nd place and Peterborough are now in 10th place.

Lowe made four changes for the trip to Peterborough with new signing Jack Hunt, Steven Sessegnon, Raphael and Joe Hungbo coming into the starting line-up. Jensen Weir, James Carragher, Fraser Murray and Asamoah Jr were left out.

The hosts were ahead after only seven minutes. Lees burst down the right and crossed to the back post and Lisbie, tapped in from inside the six-yard box.  

Just two minutes later, the Posh doubled their lead after a short free-kick was played to Cian Hayes, who crossed towards the back post, where Lees was waiting to turn the ball for Lisbie to head home from close range. 

Latics reduced the deficit on 27 minutes  after good work by Wright who dispossessed a defender and picked out Taylor who finished into the bottom corner from 12 yards out.

Lowe changed his line-up soon afterwards when Sessegnon was replaced by Christian Saydee, but Peterborough were soon able to increase their lead.

A long kick from Alex Bass eventually came to Jimmy-Jay Morgan who lobbed the ball over Sam Tickle and onto the bar before he reacted quickest to head in the rebound. 

After the break, both sides struggled for opportunities but on 58 minutes Fraser Murray replaced Hungbo which sparked some good work between Owen Moxon and Saydee, but Moxon’s final strike was well saved by Bass.

Peterborough effectively sealed the three points on 68 minutes when Latics failed to clear their lines, and Jimmy-Jay Morgan crossed to the back post and Leonard headed home from very close range.

The Posh further increased their advantage on 84 minutes as Latics lost possession in the final third and Decland Frith fed Aderoju, who finished into the bottom corner. 

The rout was completed in the 90th minute when some shambolic defending allowed Lisbie to complete his hat-trick and make it 6-1 to the hosts.

Overview

This was a desperately poor performance by Latics that sealed the departure of Ryan Lowe.

They went behind after only seven minutes and then Peterborough doubled their lead after only nine minutes and matters only got progressively worse as the game progressed. 

It was evident to the players and the fans that Lowe should’ve been sacked weeks ago but the board persisted in the belief that he could turn it around.

Director of Football Gregor Rioch stupidly stated (although he later backtracked) that Latics wouldn’t be relegated. 

It was a ridiculous claim given Latics situation and the downward spiral of results.

Lowe had seemed oblivious to the results and his manner in his press conferences was delusional to say the least.

It was inevitable that he would eventually be sacked but it was incredible that it has taken so long for the board to act.

The team are in a desperate run of form, they have not won in seven games and are now in the bottom four.

The change now at least gives the club an opportunity for survival. 

In the interim, Glenn Whelan & Graham Barrow will take on First Team matters, while the club identify and appoint a new Head Coach.

Post-match comments

Ryan Lowe did not give a press conference after the game.

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Harry Leonard, Jimmy-Jay Morgan, Joe Taylor, Kyrell Lisbie, League One, Pemi Aderoju, Peterborough United | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments