Humphrys’ quality shines through the fog as Latics progress – York City 0 Wigan Athletic 1 – FA Cup 2nd Round

Posted on December 2, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Man of the match Stephen Humphrys scored his ninth goal of the season

  • In foggy conditions and in front of the BBC cameras Wigan Athletic defeated York City 1-0 at the York Community Stadium to progress into the third round of the FA Cup.
  • Latics had chances to go ahead in the first half with Stephen Humphrys and Callum Lang going close.
  • York kept Latics at bay until the the 61st minute when man of the match Humphrys broke the deadlock. He latched onto a long ball before producing a cool finish by rounding goalkeeper David Stockdale and slotting home.
  • The hosts best chance to equalise came in added time when Lendell John-Lewis headed wide from a good position.
  • Latics now go into the third round draw which will be shown live on ITV at 1.15pm on Sunday.

Manager Shaun Maloney named an unchanged starting XI from the midweek victory against Fleetwood Town.

Latics made an hesitant start to the game and it was not until the 20th minute that they tested the York goalkeeper. Lang setting up Martial Godo but the Fulham loanee shot straight at Stockdale.

Eight minutes later Latics had a good chance to take the lead after great work by Humphrys. Latics top scorer created space in midfield and drove forward purposefully into the York box before firing at goal but Stockdale did well to save low down. 

Humphrys had another opportunity a minute later but this time his strike was well blocked by a York defender.

Lang then had an opportunity when he broke beyond the York defence and was one-on-one with Stockdale but the former Brighton and Wycombe goalkeeper did well to thwart him.

Latics had had the best opportunities in the first half but they had lacked the killer touch against the Minstermen.

0-0 at half time.

In the second half York continued to get men behind the ball and frustrate Latics.

Humphrys fired over the crossbar from a short free-kick on 54 minutes and Lang fired over the crossbar on 57 minutes after good work by Scott Smith.

But Latics did break the deadlock on 61 minutes when Humphrys latched onto a long ball before producing a cool finish by rounding Stockdale and slotting home.

Latics continued to look the most likely to score as York rarely threatened. Godo had a shot from distance on 67 minutes and Stockdale was lucky not to be red carded when he denied Lang by handling  outside his area on 69 minutes.

York had a rare chance on 77 minutes following a corner when Olly Dyson had an effort that was narrowly wide of the target.

Tom Pearce had to be replaced on 85 minutes after badly twisting his knee in a challenge. Harry McHugh came on to slot into the left back role. 

Sam Tickle then produced the best save of the game tipping a strike from substitute Maz Kouhyar onto the crossbar and over on 86 minutes.

It was end to end stuff now and Humphrys had a shot blocked on 87 minutes and substitute Callum McManaman should’ve scored when he ran free into the box but Stockdale saved in the bottom right corner on 88 minutes.

Sean Clare then broke free down the right hand side with only one defender back, but his pass failed to find Lang free in the centre of the box on 91 minutes.

John-Lewis then had a great chance to equalise on 92 minutes but his header was high and wide.

Liam Shaw and Josh Mageniss replaced Humphrys and Lang on 93 minutes as Maloney looked to run down the clock.

In the 99th minute McManaman had another great chance as he ran clear of the defence and was one-on-one with Stockdale but he fired over from close range.

The game ended after 112 minutes and Latics deservedly progressed into the third round.

Overview

Latics will be pleased to have overcome a potential banana skin at National League side York City. The margin of victory could easily have been much greater if Latics had been more clinical in front of goal. They certainly had enough chances to have put the game to bed much earlier.

York defended in depth in the first half and Latics found it hard to break them down. At least in the second half they moved the ball quicker and got more players forward.

Towards the end of the game they could have been pegged back if York had converted their late chances.

Man of the match Humphrys was the difference on the night creating several good chances for himself and coolly scoring the winner. 

Nine goals for the re-invigorated striker, but there is still a feeling that he is capable of much more. Maloney must keeping pushing him to score more, but for now he deserves all the plaudits.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Maloney spoke of his happiness that his side overcame the test and booked their place in the next round of the competition. 

“I am very happy that we’re in that Third Round draw,” he said. 

“I was reasonably happy with the performance – definitely in the second half. The last few minutes got a bit nervy but I’m really happy. 

“The only criticism is that we could’ve been more clinical and I have to also give credit to York as they had a fair few chances as well.

“Once we started to control the game, I thought we played well. I am really happy with the players.

“After the first 20 minutes, I started to like the game. The biggest thing was to get through to the next round and we’re looking forward to that draw.”

FT York City 0 Wigan Athletic 1 graphic

Posted in FA Cup, Shaun Maloney, Stephen Humphrys, Wigan Athletic, York City | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

Maloney’s men move on up – Wigan Athletic 3 Fleetwood Town 0

Posted on November 29, 2023 by ianhaspinall
Tom Pearce scored a superb free-kick

Tom Pearce scored a superb free-kick

  • Wigan Athletic emphatically defeated Fleetwood Town 3-0 at the DW Stadium.
  • Latics were ahead after only four minutes as Tom Pearce’s pass found Jordan Jones in the clear and the winger fired past Jay Lynch.
  • It was 2-0 on 31 minutes when Stephen Humphrys worked a short corner and crossed for Sean Clare to bundle the ball home via goalkeeper Lynch.
  • In first half stoppage time Fleetwood’s Joshua Earl picked up a second booking for diving in the box, reducing his side to 10 men.
  • Latics’ Pearce completed the scoring with a superb free-kick which was very similar to his curled near post strike against Fleetwood in the EFL Trophy.
  • Latics move up four places to 14th place and Fleetwood remain in 21st place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made three changes from Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Leyton Orient, with Kell Watts, Liam Shaw and Callum McManaman being replaced by Pearce, Scott Smith and Martial Godo.

Latics were quick out of the blocks, with Godo winning a corner within the opening minute as they applied early pressure to the Fleetwood backline.

They were ahead in the fourth minute with Jones on target for his second goal of the season.

The winger ran onto Pearce’s excellent pass behind the Town defence before slotting the ball past Lynch.

Latics nearly added a second goal in the ninth minute. Humphrys burst into the Fleetwood penalty area but saw his powerful strike deflected away from goal.

After the initial Latics pressure, the visitors rallied and probably should’ve equalised in the 14th minute. A deep free kick to the far post found Ben Heneghan, but his header went narrowly wide of Sam Tickle’s near post.

In the 19th minute Heneghan drew a save from Tickle, with the Latics keeper having to palm his effort over the crossbar following a succession of Fleetwood corners.

The hosts had taken their foot off the pedal and the visitors were now threatening to equalise. 

Tickle had to palm away Ryan Broom’s curling effort after the visitors had won the ball off of the Latics backline on the edge of the area.

Heneghan might’ve been dismissed in the 25th minute as he brought down Callum Lang as the last defender. The Fleetwood captain was lucky to only be shown a yellow card for his late challenge as Lang looked to be through on goal.

Just after the half hour mark Latics doubled their lead.

A short corner was played to Humphrys, who made his way into the penalty area before firing a low cross into the six-yard box, with Clare sliding in to score via the Fleetwood keeper Lynch.

The hosts were now in confident mood and they looked to go further ahead in the 39th minute.

A speedy counter-attack saw Humphrys, Godo and Lang all involved before Lang played Jones through on goal, with the winger drawing a superb save from Lynch diving low to his right.

In first half stoppage time the visitors were reduced to ten-men when Earl was dismissed after being shown a second yellow card for diving in the box.

2-0 to Latics at half-time.

Lang nearly added a third in the 57th minute after excellent work from Godo down the right-hand side. The winger’s cross found Lang free in the penalty area, but Lang’s header went wide of Lynch’s far post.  

However, Latics did add a third goal in the 61st minute through Pearce’s superb curled free kick which was reminiscent of his free-kick against Fleetwood in the EFL Trophy.

In the 67th minute Chris Sze, Josh Magennis and Callum McManaman replaced Lang, Humphrys and Jones.

In the 78th minute Josh Stones and Liam Shaw replaced Godo and Clare. 

The visitors tried to get a consolation goal but Latics held firm in the remaining minutes. Maloney’s men are now unbeaten in six games and are gradually moving into mid-table.

Overview

This was a much improved team performance after the disappointing draw at Leyton Orient on Saturday. Latics were much sharper going forward and this time they got the early goal that they had craved at Orient with Jones firing home after only four minutes.

Man of the match Godo had an outstanding game and was a constant thorn in the visitors side. Twisting and turning the Fleetwood defence and creating opportunities for his colleagues. Lang was also much improved on recent displays and could with a bit more luck have got on the scoresheet. 

Latics looked fairly solid defensively although it’s fair to say the opposition are not the best they will face this season. Omar Rekik had one of his best games and Charlie Hughes was excellent as usual.

Tom Pearce also had one of his better games and scored another superb free-kick. He now needs to be more consistent and produce good performances week in, week out.

Positive signs for Maloney’s men, but it is important that they keep the momentum going as they now face a potential banana skin when they travel to York City in the FA Cup on Friday night.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Maloney was pleased with his side’s free-flowing attacking display. 

“It was good especially in the first half. The second half was a different contest, with them down to 10 men, he said.

“Some of the attacking play was very good. In that final third, when you have [Stephen] Humphrys, [Martial] Godo and [Jordan] Jones we’re a big threat. I thought Callum Lang was excellent as well.”

“It was his movement I was most pleased with. When a team high presses us you have to attack the space in behind. Jordan Jones was unplayable at times tonight. He was very, very good.”

Maloney was also pleased with the defensive performance of his team after a clean sheet and also paid credit to Tom Pearce after his goal.

“What also pleased me was the back four today. Even in the last seconds, we had Charlie Hughes diving to put his body on the line to keep a clean sheet.

“[Tom] Pearce’s set plays are very good. We’re continuing to work with Tom, he’s really improved. He’s working really hard. Tom was at his best today and my challenge to him is to do it everyday. I’m pleased for Tom, he keeps his head down and works hard. He got his rewards tonight.”

The Gaffer concluded by admitting he felt the mentality was spot on today before shedding some injury news ahead of Latics Emirates FA Cup tie against York City on Friday.

“It was pretty controlled. If the scoreline was different we may have been more aggressive. Today it felt more controlled. I was really happy with the boys that came on. It was a good night.

“We try to (keep winning at home). I loved the mentality out of possession. The talent we have going forward, even some of the player’s we’ve got injured at the moment.

I know they’re talented. I think the fans are enjoying watching them right now.

“On Friday we’ve got a big test. I will give everyone until the last moment. I don’t think Charlie Wyke will be ready for Friday [hip]. James Balagizi will be more like weeks [hamstring]. Liam Morrison won’t be available after his injury with Scotland.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Whoscored.com notes

Whoscored.com notes

Posted in Fleetwood Town, Jordan Jones, League One, Sean Clare, Shaun Maloney, Tom Pearce, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics fail to capitalise on early promise – Leyton Orient 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on November 27, 2023 by ianhaspinall
Orient defend a Latics corner
  • It was a frustrating afternoon for Wigan Athletic as they drew 1-1 with Leyton Orient at Brisbane Road.
  • Latics had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the opening minute when Orient goalkeeper Sol Brynn brought down Sean Clare, but Stephen Humphrys failed to convert the resulting penalty.
  • In an end-to-end first half the hosts went ahead with a superb strike from Shaq Forde on 18 minutes.
  • But Latics drew level on 46 minutes when Humphrys redeemed his penalty miss with an excellent drive into the bottom corner.
  • The hosts had the better of the second half and Latics faded to settle for an away point.
  • Latics remain in 18th and Orient are in 14th place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made three changes from Latics’ last league outing at Cheltenham with Clare, Kell Watts and Callum McManaman starting.

Latics attacked from the kick off and they had a great opportunity in only the first minute.

Callum Lang found Clare in behind the Orient defence. Clare knocked the ball beyond goalkeeper Sol Brynn, who brought the wing back down, and after initial hesitation by referee Sam Purkiss Latics were awarded a penalty.

Humphrys stepped up but for the second league away game running he failed to convert. His powerful penalty hitting the post and going wide.

Latics were stunned and the hosts would have taken the lead if not for a brilliant save from Sam Tickle.

Ruel Sotiriou was allowed to get behind the Latics defence but he couldn’t find a way past Tickle who did superbly to close down the striker before claiming the ball.

Tickle saved well again soon afterwards. Theo Archibald found space down the left-hand side and crossed onto the head of Joe Pigott, who saw his effort well held by the Latics goalkeeper.

It was end-to-end stuff now and Maloney’s men created another good opportunity in the 16th minute.

McManaman and Jordan Jones linked up down the left with Jones’ cross into the area eventually falling to Humphrys who saw his shot excellently blocked by a combination of Ed Turns and Dan Happe.

Two minutes later and the hosts were ahead.

A long ball from the back found Sotiriou who flicked the ball onto Shaq Forde and the winger cut inside and curled a tremendous strike into the top corner from the edge of the penalty area.

Forde should have added a second goal in the 20th minute but this time he dragged his shot wide of the far post.

Tickle was in the action again in the 30th minute when Archibald tried his luck from nearly 40 yards out, but the Tics keeper did well to palm the strike around the post.

As the match moved towards half-time Latics found the equalising goal in the 46th minute thanks to a superb Humphrys strike.

Jones played a short free-kick to Humphrys and the former Rochdale striker took the ball towards the penalty area before sending a powerful low drive into the bottom corner.

1-1 at Half-time.

The first chance of the second half fell to the hosts with Forde’s cross well defended by Clare to prevent it reaching Pigott for a tap in.

At the other end Charlie Hughes found Jones in behind the Orient defence and the winger cut the ball back to Lang, but Happe was in the right place to intercept the pass.

Latics huffed and puffed and struggled to create any clear-cut chances in the second half. The hosts always looked a threat but Latics held firm. A share of the points was probably a fair result at the end.

Overview

Like Cheltenham this was a missed opportunity by Latics. Once again they started well and should have taken the lead from Humphrys early penalty. However for the second league away game in succession the striker failed to convert from the spot.

As well as the penalty they had early chances to put the game out of Orient’s reach but they failed to capitalise.

Against the run of play the hosts hit Latics on the counterattack and grew in confidence.

Humphrys did at least partially redeem himself by equalising with an excellent strike just before half-time.

If Latics had won at Cheltenham and Orient the additional four points would have put them in 13th place.

There is definitely a sense that this was a missed opportunity to move up the table but Maloney’s team of free transfers, loans and academy graduates are still very much a work in progress with plenty of room for improvement.

Latics could easily have lost at Orient as they were left exposed on several occasions.

Man of the match Sam Tickle made several important saves which kept Latics in the game.

It should also be noted that Latics have got several players missing due to injury. Matt Smith, Thelo Aasgaard, Stephen Sessegnon, Liam Morrison, and Jason Kerr are all unavailable.

Maloney will be looking for improved performances against Fleetwood Town on Tuesday night and against York City in the FA Cup on Friday.

Post match comments

Speaking post-game to the media, Manager Shaun Maloney thought a point was a fair result for both sides. 

“It probably was (a fair result). I don’t think there was much control in that game. In the first half, there were more chances, but it never felt like a controlled game,” he admitted.

“The big positive for us is we’ve had plenty of games like that this season, Stevenage, Burton, Cheltenham. It felt like we stood up to the longer ball, the physicality. I spoke to the players, and that’s the biggest positive we’ve got. I’d like us to play a bit more at times, but a point is about right, I think.

“I want us to be hard to beat, I want us to be able to do lots of things. High press when we have to, defend the long ball when we have to. Today, we showed a side to us that is, getting better. [In the past] we have come to games like this and we come away with nothing.”

The Gaffer also had plenty of praise for the mentality of goalscorer Humphrys after he missed a first minute penalty, before grabbing the vital equaliser on the stroke of half-time.

“It shows his mentality, wanting to take the penalty again, he continued.

“He’s in very good form. He is really leading the team from his position. It was an outstanding goal. He’s a really talented boy and there is loads more to come from him.

“When he came off, we had to change slightly but hopefully, he’ll be alright.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Whoscored.com notes
Whoscored.com notes
Posted in League One, Leyton Orient, Shaq Forde, Shaun Maloney, Stephen Humphrys, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

Latics not at the races against Cheltenham – Cheltenham Town 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on November 13, 2023 by ianhaspinall

View from the away end

  • Wigan Athletic were not at their best as they drew 1-1 against second bottom Cheltenham Town at the Completely-Suzuki Stadium.
  • Latics were ahead after only six minutes when Lewis Freestone deflected Jordan Jones cross into his own net.
  • The visitors had started well and Martial Godo nearly increased the lead on 12 minutes but his angled drive hit the post.
  • The hosts gradually grew into the game and when Will Goodwin was tripped in the box by Baba Adeeko, Liam Sercombe converted from the penalty spot on 32 minutes.
  • Cheltenham continued to push forward in the second-half with Goodwin hitting the post after Curtis Davies’ flick-on from Southwood’s free-kick.
  • The out-of-sorts Latics had a great chance to win the game on 64 minutes when Godo was brought down in the area, but Stephen Humphrys’ tame penalty-kick was easily saved by Luke Southwood.
  • Latics drop to 18th place and Cheltenham remain second bottom in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made just one change to his side that defeated Peterborough United in midweek with Baba Adeeko replacing Scott Smith in midfield.

Latics started brightly and they were in front after just six minutes. Humphrys beat two men before feeding Jones and the winger’s cross was turned into his own net by Freestone.

It was nearly two on 12 minutes as Godo found space on the right and fired a low angled drive against the post.

At the other end, defender Curtis Davies’ fired wide of Sam Tickle’s left post from the edge of the box.

Curtis Thompson then fired over following a long throw into the Latics penalty area.

Latics had to make an early change when Steven Sessegnon went off with an injury and Scott Smith came on in his place.

The hosts were gradually growing in confidence and they were looking particularly dangerous from set pieces and a free kick from the left was met by Goodwin whose header was deflected just wide.

Cheltenham drew level when referee Carl Brook awarded a penalty on 32 minutes as Adeeko brought down Goodwin in the box and Sercombe stepped up to convert the spot-kick.

1-1 at half-time.

The hosts started strongly at the start of the second-half and Thompson dragged his shot wide before Goodwin was denied by the woodwork.

Latics just couldn’t get out of their half and when they did they quickly lost possession.

Goodwin had two efforts comfortably saved by Tickle as the hosts pressed forward.

Latics were given a massive opportunity on 63 minutes when referee Brook awarded a penalty after Godo was brought down.

Humphrys’ stepped up but his tame penalty-kick was easily saved by Luke Southwood.

S

Humphrys penalty was saved by Southwood

Maloney made two changes on 75 minutes as Josh Stones and Callum McManaman replaced Lang and Godo.

The changes did not stem the tide as Cheltenham went for the winner but Latics just about held firm.

Substitute Aidan Keena fired over before he had another effort from 20 yards which went wide.

In five minutes of added time Tickle collected a back pass and it appeared the referee had awarded a free-kick, but he had blown for full time and Latics had escaped with a point.

Overview

After an excellent midweek display against Peterborough Latics once again showed their inconsistency with a below-par performance at struggling Cheltenham.

After initially starting well and taking an early lead with an own goal they quickly lost their way.

In forward and defensive positions they lacked the energy to close down their opponents and Cheltenham were allowed to dominate for long periods.

The hosts were particularly threatening from set pieces but at least Tickle and his defenders coped well under pressure.

Latics had missed the injured Thelo Aasgaard in a central role and Steven Sessegnon had to be withdrawn early with an injury.

But this does not excuse the lack of creativity and energy from the forwards and midfielders. Several players were well below their usual standards and Latics could so easily have lost.

Latics inability to play through the thirds meant that they resorted to aimless long balls, which seemed a crazy strategy given that they were playing without an obvious target man. Humphrys lacked energy and drive and Lang was once again ineffective.

They might have stolen all three points with the Humphrys penalty, but that would’ve been very harsh on a hard-working Cheltenham outfit.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Shaun Maloney said that it was a point gained for his side due to the nature of the League One encounter. 

“I think for the first 20 minutes, I was really pleased with how we played,” he said.

“We scored a really good goal, but the build-up play was good and we created enough chances to be further ahead.

“In fairness, once they scored their penalty, it became a big fight. We had to defend a lot of long balls and set plays.

“I still felt we were a threat on the counter attack and in terms of missing the penalty, Stephen has been so good for us and it’s one of those things in football.

“It’s a point gained. If anyone was at the game, it was a big battle and we had to defend a lot in our box.

“We went to Stevenage and Burton where we got asked big questions and we didn’t come up with the answers. Today, we certainly came up with the defensive answers so it was a point gained. 

“In general, I’m happy. Some of our young players have never had a game like that so it’s a point gained.”

Following the result, Latics extended their unbeaten run to three matches in all competitions, and Maloney was full of praise for his side’s performance levels after the last month.

“It’s been a brilliant month and my challenge to them now is to go again. We’ve got a big game on Tuesday, we’re already through but it’s a big game for our players. 

“We have to go again. In the last four weeks, the players have been brilliant and I can’t say a negative thing about them.

“Even today, they battled until the last minute not to concede. We have to go again next month.

“I’m very pleased. I am pretty stable with the results but I have to give the players credit to get that amount of points after the run we were on and get through in the FA Cup. The players have been very good but I need more.

“The mindset has to be the same. We’ll have more games like this – more battles – and we may have to find a way of gaining control of the game more. There are certain games where you just have to fight and today was one of them.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Whoscored.com notes

Whoscored.com notes

Posted in Cheltenham Town, League One, Lewis Freestone, Liam Sercombe, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Macca magic gives Latics the edge – Wigan Athletic 2 Peterborough United 1

Posted on November 8, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Callum McManaman produced a magical winning goal

  • FA Cup winner Callum McManaman’s superb 82nd minute strike helped Wigan Athletic to a hard- fought 2-1 victory against Peterborough United at the DW Stadium.
  • Latics had gone ahead after only seven minutes when Martial Godo nipped in front of goalkeeper Nicholas Bilokapic to poke home.
  • Jordan Jones crashed a stunning effort against the crossbar for Latics but Posh grew into the game and enjoyed plenty of possession. 
  • Early in the second half the visitors drew level when Kwame Poku fired low under Sam Tickle from inside the box.
  • Peterborough continued to press forward but Latics defence was resolute, and from substitute Tom Pearce’s corner fellow subsititute McManaman produced an unstoppable drive to secure the three points.
  • Latics move up to 17th place in the table and Peterborough remain in fourth place.

Shaun Maloney made three enforced changes to his starting line-up with Omar Rekik, Liam Shaw, and Callum Lang coming in for Sean Clare (injured), Baba Adeeko (suspended) and Thelo Aasgaard (injured).

It was a cagey start by both teams, but on seven minutes Martial Godo got in front of keeper Bilokapic to poke the ball home from Jones inviting cross.

Lang had a great chance to increase Latics’ lead on 23 minutes after good work in midfield by Stephen Humphrys, but the striker fired just wide of the target from 20 yards out.

At the other end full back Harrison Burroughs dangerous strike was well saved  by Tickle on 24 minutes.

Humphrys then tried his luck from distance on 28 minutes but his effort was comfortably saved by Bilokapic.   

As the game developed Peterborough enjoyed more possession but Latics were always dangerous on the counter-attack.

The hosts might’ve added to their lead when they twice went close on 33 minutes. Jones cut inside before striking a swerving and dipping effort which crashed against the crossbar before Godo’s curling follow up shot was narrowly wide of the far post.

Mason Clarke’s effort from distance was then well saved by Tickle on 40 minutes at the other end.

Just before half time Humphrys surged forward and was brought down on the edge of the box, but from the resulting free-kick Lang curled an effort just over the crossbar.

1-0 to Latics at half time.

Peterborough started the better at the beginning of the second half and but for some last ditch defending they would have been level.  

David Ajiboye had a right footed shot from the centre of the box blocked before Jadel Katongo’s shot from outside the box blazed wide of the target.

But on 54 minutes the visitors did draw level when Poku fired low under Tickle from Ajiboye’s cut back.

The game looked to be moving in Peterborough’s favour, but on 56 minutes Maloney made some important substitutions to turn the tide. Tom Pearce and Chris Sze replaced Jones and Humphrys.

Godo then produced a brilliant attacking dribble on the hour mark before he was blatantly obstructed on the edge of the box, but referee Ollie Yates waved away Latics appeals.

Peterborough nearly contributed to their own downfall on 67 minutes when a back pass surprised Bilokapic but the keeper recovered at the last moment.

It looked like Latics had regained the lead on 72 minutes when Charlie Hughes produced a brilliant strike, but his effort smashed against the near post.

Forwards Josh Stones and McManaman replaced Godo and Lang on 73 minutes as Maloney looked to up the energy levels.

Ten minutes later McManaman produced a magical strike to give Latics the advantage. Pearce’s corner came to the FA Cup winner on the edge of the box and he unleashed an unstoppable drive into the Peterborough net.

The visitors responded and they forced Latics back into defence. Substitute striker Jonson Clarke-Harris was introduced and he immediately started to cause problems.

On 84 minutes Clarke-Harris headed into the path of Ephron Mason-Clark but his right footed shot from the centre of the box was straight at Tickle.

McManaman then did well to defend a dangerous deep cross at the back post on 88 minutes.

Six minutes of added time and the visitors continued to threaten the Latics goal.

Pearce cleared Joe Randall’s effort off the goal-line and then Clarke-Harris headed just wide from close range as Latics held on for an important victory.

Overview

This was a tremendous result against a team who will probably be in the promotion mix at the end of the season.

Latics were without several key players on the night and the players coming into the team did a very good job indeed to keep the winning run going.

Maloney’s tactical changes and substitutions made a big difference when the game might’ve gone away from them in the second half.

The energy of McManaman, Sze, Pearce and Stones helped Latics to get over the line in a difficult fixture.

McManaman only seems to score spectacular goals these days, when they come they are magnificent. His strike against Northampton in August was something special but this one was equally as good.

Latics did ride their luck a little, particularly in the final minutes, but overall they just about deserved the victory which moved them away from the bottom of the table.

League One Table

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Maloney reserved special praise for McManaman, and expressed he enjoyed seeing the players celebrate as one after the full-time whistle and in the changing rooms after the game.

“He’s (Callum McManaman) got a lot of talent,” Maloney said

“He’s been in a great place the last few weeks. He’s made a big impact (in games) off the bench. He can produce moments of magic, and was brilliant, as were all the players.

“We had to make a tactical change when it went one-all, and all the players deserve every bit of credit. I thought they were superb today.

“It’s really good to listen to the group celebrating together as well. That’s the pleasing part.

We can do a lot of things. Some of the way we played with the ball was very good. We showed many different ways to win a game tonight. Some things were very good in the first half, and then when we scored, we had to show a real heart and desire not to concede and we did that.

When you have Steven Humphrys and Martial Godo on that top line, then we will always be a counter-attack threat.

Second half they started to dominate and we got a foothold back with the substitutions. It felt it could have gone either way but thankfully Callum produced a bit of magic.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Whoscored.com notes

Whoscored.com notes

Posted in Callum McManaman, Kwame Poku, League One, Martial Godo, Peterborough United, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics replicate league win in FA Cup – Exeter City 0 Wigan Athletic 2 – FA Cup 1st Round

Posted on November 5, 2023 by ianhaspinall
Steven Sessegnon Wigan Athletic

Steven Sessegnon scored his first goal for Latics Photo courtesy of Wigan Athletic

  • This FA Cup victory for Wigan Athletic was a replica of the league fixture at St James Park as the visitors absorbed pressure and hit Exeter on the counter-attack winning 2-0.
  • Latics rode their luck as Exeter threatened in the first half with former Latic Yanic Wildschut going close on several occasions.
  • In the 58th minute and against the run of play Latics went ahead as Jordan Jones shot was only partially saved by Viljami Sinisalo and Thelo Aasgaard followed up.
  • The visitors progression to the second round was confirmed when Steven Sessegnon curled a superb strike into the top corner from 25 yards on 87 minutes.
  • Latics will be ball number 5 in the second round draw which takes place on Sunday.

Shaun Maloney made four changes from the defeat against Charlton Athletic with Stephen Humphrys, Martial Godo, Sessegnon and Scott Smith coming into the starting line-up.

Wildschut threatened in the first five minutes and Charlie Hughes had to concede an early corner.

On nine minutes Wildschut’s right footed strike from a tight angle was pushed away for a corner by Sam Tickle.

Harry Kite and Vincent Harper had shots blocked before Alex Hartridge headed wide from a corner as the hosts pressed forward.

Sean Clare had to be withdrawn due to an injury on 19 minutes and replaced by Omar Rekik.

On 26 minutes Latics had their first serious attack and Scott Smith’s strike from outside the box was superbly tipped over the crossbar by Sinsalo.

But the hosts were still enjoying plenty of possession as Wildschut continued to be their most dangerous forward.

Harper had a great chance to break the deadlock on 38 minutes but he headed wide from the centre of the goal.

Wildschut then had a shot straight at Tickle on 40 minutes as Latics held firm.

In first half added time Godo broke away but was unceremoniously brought down by Harry Kite. It could have been a straight red card, but Godo was still 40 yards from the Exeter goal and Kite only received a yellow card from referee Craig Hicks.

Exeter continued their dominance at the start of the second half and they should’ve gone ahead when Wildschut cut the ball back to James Scott but he ballooned his effort from the centre of the box over the crossbar on 52 minutes.

It was to prove a costly miss as on 58 minutes as Aasgaard broke the deadlock. Jones strike was pushed away by Sinisalo and the Norwegian U21 international followed up to give Latics the lead.

Latics held their shape and continued to defend until in the 87th minute Sessegnon curled a superb strike from 25 yards into the top corner to seal their progression into the second round of the FA Cup.

Overview

This was not an easy watch for Latics’ fans as they had to endure plenty of Exeter pressure with Wildschut posing a big threat.

Although they defended very well, they also rode their luck as the Grecians wasted some very good opportunities.

Latics were always a threat on the break with Humphrys, Jones, Godo and Aasgaard dangerous and this proved to be the difference between the two teams.

As in the league fixture, the visitors hit the hosts on the counter this time through Aasgaard before Sessegnon scored a fantastic goal to seal progression to the next round.

Maloney once again got his tactics just about right against Exeter, but against another team with more prolific finishers they would probably have lost.

It was important that Maloney’s men quickly got back to winning ways but they cannot afford to take such risks against most other teams as they will be seriously punished.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Maloney said: 

“It was a very good team performance,

“In the second half, we changed things tactically. I didn’t feel like there were massive issues in the game, I just wanted to get our attacking players higher up.

“We changed our system. The first half was very even with not much in it, although I didn’t feel like we were under a massive threat.

“I felt we were dangerous on the counter attack but I wanted more of the ball in the second half. We saw the game out and I was really happy. In the end, it was a really good performance. 

“We take it game by game, and we’ve got a history in the cup. I spoke to the players before the game, and there have been some amazing moments in recent history. Hopefully it’s our turn to create some memories.”

Over 350 Tics made the 400-mile round trip for the second time in two weeks, and Maloney was pleased to send the supporters home happy. 

“I’m so glad we gave the fans another win here. This one meant a lot to everyone, myself included.”

Thelo Aasgaard - Exeter 0 Wigan Athletic 2

Image courtesy of Wigan Athletic

Posted in Exeter City, FA Cup, Shaun Maloney, Steven Sessegnon, Thelo Aasgaard, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics unbeaten run comes to an end – Wigan Athletic 2 Charlton Athletic 3

Posted on November 1, 2023 by ianhaspinall
Manager Shaun Maloney Wigan Athletic

Shaun Maloney took responsibility for the defeat

  • Wigan Athletic’s three game winning run came to an end as Charlton Athletic recorded their first away win of the season.
  • Latics manager Shaun Maloney decided to tinker with his starting line-up and it had a detrimental effect as his team were outplayed in the first half.
  • Alfie May opened the scoring in the 21st minute following a corner and he doubled the lead on 31 minutes with a low drive into the bottom corner.
  • With Latics in disarray the visitors Corey Blackett-Taylor added a third two minutes before half-time with a powerful strike.
  • Maloney made a triple substitution at half-time and substitute Martial Godo assisted Thelo Aasgaard pull a goal back with six minutes remaining.
  • Substitute Stephen Humphrys fired home on 90 minutes to further reduce the deficit but it was all too late as Charlton held on for the three points.
  • Latics remain in 19th place and Charlton are in 11th place in League One.

Maloney surprisingly made three changes to his starting XI as Tom Pearce, Lang and Charlie Wyke all returned to the team replacing Steven Sessegnon, Martial Godo and Stephen Humphrys.

The visitors had the first effort at goal as May cut inside onto his right foot and fired an effort just wide of Sam Tickle’s far post.

At the other end Jordan Jones crossed to Aasgaard, but he couldn’t get his shot away and the ball was cleared.

But the Addicks continued to look dangerous and Blackett-Taylor’s deflected effort from the edge of the box was superbly tipped over by Tickle.

Latics went close on 15 minutes when Aasgaard was tripped outside the box and Lang stepped up to take a free kick, but despite clearing the defensive wall, he was denied by the Charlton crossbar.

Charlton were ahead on 21 minutes. A corner from the right was initially cleared, but the cross came back in from Louis Watson and was met by the unmarked May. His header was kept out by  Tickle, but the ball rebounded off the Charlton striker and found its way into the net.

Just ten minutes later and it was two. May picked the ball up on the edge of the box, took one touch and drilled a low strike into the far right corner and beyond Tickle.

Three minutes before half-time the Addicks made it three. George Dobson found Miles Leaburn who laid the ball into the path of Blackett-Taylor who finished powerfully into the corner.

Charlton had produced some clinical finishing but Latics defence had just been too open.

Maloney made three changes at the break as Humphrys, Godo and Scott Smith came on for Wyke, Lang and Liam Shaw.

But it was the visitors who had the first attempt at goal in the second half as Tyreece Campbell struck Tickle’s near post and rebounded away for a goal kick.

Humphrys tried his luck from distance but his powerful effort was straight at Ashley Maynard-Brewer.

But the visitors still looked threatening and Campbell forced Tickle into a low save at his near-post. 

Substitute Callum McManaman replaced Jones on 62 minutes and he was soon in the action, crossing for Aasgaard whose effort hit the crossbar and then went over.

Aasgaard went close again on 72 minutes as Maynard-Brewer denied him following a back-post header.

But on 84 minutes Godo and Aasgaard combined skilfully before the Norwegian U21 international fired high into the net from 15 yards out.

In the 90th minute Humphrys lashed the ball into the top home from just inside the box to make it 3-2 but it was all too late for Latics to get an equaliser. If only Maloney hadn’t tinkered with his team.

Overview

Unfortunately Maloney got his team selection wrong against Charlton. Martial Godo and Stephen Humphrys had been very impressive at the weekend against Shrewsbury but they were surprisingly dropped to the bench for Lang and Wyke. Tom Pearce presumably came into the team because Steven Sessegnon was injured.

The manager may want to try to keep all his players happy by rotating his team but on this occasion he got it badly wrong.

Callum Lang is struggling for form and he often runs around energetically to limited effect. Charlie Wyke still looks a little off the pace and he lacked service from the wings.

Maloney has at least admitted his mistake and he will have learned a hard lesson.

I believe Michael Appleton may have surprised Maloney with his tactics. Charlton had come with an attacking 4-3-3 formation and they pressed high and in numbers exposing Latics back three.

Appleton had out-thought Maloney and the visitors could easily have been more than three goals ahead at half-time. Charlton had been clinical but Latics had stood off and allowed them the space.

Latics rallied after the interval but the damage had been done in the first half.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards Shaun Maloney took full responsibility for the defeat.

“Standing here, I’m still very angry about the first half,” he said.

“The second half is everything I want to see in our team, and the first half was the very opposite.

“I spoke previously and said we could be a decent team when our mentality is right. When it isn’t right, we can get beat by any team in this league, and the first half showed that.

“I have to give them (Charlton Athletic) credit, they were good and it could’ve been more (at half-time). I made three changes before the game, and take responsibility for that. I didn’t get the team right.

“From top to bottom, we have to make sure that we never get complacent. We can’t ever be over confident. I’ve tried to keep things as level as we can, and the first half was not the right mentality.

“We didn’t start the game at all, and Charlton were far superior in the first half. 

“I got this wrong, and I’ll take this one for the group. I’ve spoken to them about this weekend which is a huge game (to bounce back in).”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Alfie May, Charlton Athletic, Corey Blackett-Taylor, Michael Appleton, Shaun Maloney, Stephen Humphrys, Thelo Aasgaard, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics ease past Salop – Wigan Athletic 2 Shrewsbury Town 0

Posted on October 29, 2023 by ianhaspinall
Stephen Humphrys Wigan Athletic

Stephen Humphrys gave Latics the lead

  • Wigan Athletic comfortably defeated 10-man Shrewsbury Town 2-0 at the DW Stadium.
  • The visitors had former Latic Chey Dunkley red carded for a foul on Thelo Aasgaard after only four minutes and they struggled to contain the hosts throughout.
  • Latics created plenty of chances and should’ve been ahead before Stephen Humphrys opened the scoring with a superb strike from 20-yards on 35 minutes.
  • Latics played some lovely passing football with Martial Godo, Jordan Jones and Humphrys always a threat.
  • But for all their dominance Latics only sealed the three points when substitute Callum McManaman crossed for fellow substitute Callum Lang to head home on 66 minutes.
  • Latics move up to 19th place and Shrewsbury drop to 18th place in League One.

Latics’ starting line-up was unchanged from the 2-0 victory against Oxford United in midweek. Maloney adopted a 3-4-3 formation with Sean Clare, Charlie Hughes and Liam Morrison in the back three.

Latics started on the front foot and threatened almost from the kick off,  Jones fed Martial Godo down the left and his dangerous low cross somehow evaded everyone in the box.

Four minutes in and the visitors were reduced to 10-men. Former Latic Dunkley tripped Aasgaard who had been played through by Humphrys and referee Daniel Middleton had no hesitation in issuing a straight red card.

Jones fired an effort just wide from the left side of the penalty area as Latics upped the tempo.

Jason Sraha was perhaps a little lucky to stay on the pitch after a late tackle on Aasgaard on 16 minutes.

Godo then threatened on 20 minutes as he was played through on the left and then cut inside, but his low shot was well saved by goalkeeper Marko Marosi.

Just before the half hour mark Humphrys unleashed a thunderbolt from 25 yards which goalkeeper Marosi did superbly to save one handed.

But Humphrys was not to be denied and on 35 minutes he broke the deadlock with a brilliant strike. 20-yards out he did one step over before rifling the ball low past Marosi.

Salop then had a lucky escape when a Jones cross from the left rebounded off Mal Benning and came off the post.

The visitors then enjoyed some possession towards the end of the first half, but they were unable to threaten Sam Tickle’s goal before the break.

After the break Latics almost increased their lead when Adeeko tried his luck from 30-yards. The ball deflected off a Shrewsbury defender and nearly found the arriving Liam Shaw, but the ball just drifted past him and the visitors survived.

Humphrys should definitely have doubled the lead on 58 minutes when a perfect cross from Godo found him free at the back post, but he somehow headed wide from inside the six yard box.

A minute later and Jones went close as he cut inside on his right foot and curled a delightful effort which crashed against the crossbar.

On 65 minutes Maloney made a triple substitution as Lang, McManaman and Josh Magennis all came on for Liam Shaw, Humphrys and Godo.

It didn’t take long for two of the substitutes to combine for the second goal. McManaman twisted and turned down the right hand side before swinging in a perfect cross for Lang to head home his second goal in two games.

Aasgaard then tested Marosi from 25-yards before Tom Pearce’s similarly long range distance was comfortably saved. Substitute Josh Stones had the chance to add a third in added time, but his chipped effort flew over with Marosi well out of his goal.

Latics ran out comfortable 2-0 winners but it could and should have been so many more.

Overview

The sending off of Dunkley certainly gave Latics an early advantage, but they are currently in such a rich vein of form and playing such lovely football, they would probably have won comfortably anyway.

They dominated possession, controlled the tempo and created numerous chances. The only criticism was that they should have been more clinical and scored more goals.

Humphrys, Godo and Jones were a constant threat and on another day Latics would have won by four or five goals.

Baba Adeeko and Liam Shaw were once again tenacious in midfield with Clare, Hughes and Morrison strong in defence and Latics now look much more solid through the middle of the park.

After a very good start to the season Latics experienced a worrying dip in form but after three straight wins the situation is looking far brighter for Maloney’s men and if they can secure another victory on Tuesday night against Charlton Athletic they can push on towards mid-table.

League One Table 28 October 2023

League One Table

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Maloney said:

“We started the game really well, and then the sending-off changed the dynamic. We had to stay really patient, and it was a very professional performance. 

“We could’ve been more clinical but I have to be happy with what the group gave me today. 

“I liked the second half – we created a lot of chances and didn’t give them too many opportunities on our goal. 

“It was a reward to stick with the same team, as I thought we were excellent both on and off the ball against Oxford. 

“The biggest thing is the mentality – we’re very hard to beat at home and we have to do things with an intensity without the ball means that any team that comes here has a hard game.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Callum Lang, League One, Shaun Maloney, Shrewsbury Town, Stephen Humphrys, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Review – Answered Prayers: England and the 1966 World Cup by Duncan Hamilton

Posted on October 26, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Answered Prayers: England and the 1966 World Cup by Duncan Hamilton cover image

‘Answered Prayers’ is Duncan Hamilton’s personal homage to Alf Ramsay and the England World Cup winners. 1966 is still England’s crowning football achievement and it may never be surpassed, but Ramsay and the players never got the rewards and recognition they deserved and were treated poorly by the Football Association.

Hamilton is a great storyteller, and he captures the pervading atmosphere of the time. There was a tremendous significance in a World Cup final against West Germany only 21 years after the Second World War. The fear England would lose was palpable among those who could not bear the prospect of defeat against the Germans.

In 1963 Ramsay had predicted that England would win the World Cup in 66 but few believed him at the time. However, in the build-up to the World Cup Bobby Charlton said that Ramsay’s ‘attention to detail’ was ‘quite fanatical’ and he began to believe that England might just win it.

The key events of the final are well known but Hamilton highlights some significant ‘What if’s’. What if Ray Wilson hadn’t dropped his marshmallow header towards Helmut Haller? What if Helmut Schon hadn’t made a technical mistake by binding Franz Beckenbauer to Bobby Charlton?

Arthur Rowe defined what made a truly great manager. ‘It isn’t only what he knows about football, but what he knows about men,’ he said. ‘What if Alf Ramsay hadn’t possessed that quality?’ Here is the most significant ‘What if’ of all.

Hamilton is nostalgic for the football of the period, for example, no pitch side advertising, every player in black boots, shirts unsullied by sponsors’ logos spread across the chest or on the back.

He believes, ‘While 1960’s football was slower than today’s Premier League – how could it not be? – everything was simpler and less wrapped up in the kind of anal micro-tactics that today fill hours upon hours of pre- and post-match TV analysis.’

He states that the attributes that won Alf Ramsay the World Cup – obstinacy and his implacable belief that he was always right – meant he would never win another. After England failed in 1970 Ramsay rather foolishly said ‘I don’t think we can learn anything from the Brazilians.’

Ramsay’s removal as England manager after failing to qualify for the 1974 World Cup was probably necessary but it was ineptly done by the FA and edged with malice. The world had moved on from 66 but Ramsay and his team didn’t or couldn’t always move with it.

Some struggled in their football careers and didn’t receive the rewards they might have expected, George Cohen and Bobby Moore were diagnosed with cancer, Nobby Stiles had thoughts of suicide and Jimmy Greaves turned to alcohol.

Sadly Ramsay never got the proper recognition he deserved. He never appeared as the subject of ‘This Is Your Life’ or as a guest on ‘Desert Island Discs’. He declined to appear on chat shows.

Hamilton is one of the most accomplished sportswriters and this book superbly captures the feeling of summer 1966 as an ending rather than a new beginning. It was a time when English football shined brightest but the good times didn’t last long for the manager or the players.

You can stream Goal! FIFA 1966 World Cup film here

Answered Prayers: England and the 1966 World Cup by Duncan Hamilton. Published by Riverrun. Price £19.29.

This review first appeared in the November/December 2023 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in 1966, Duncan Hamilton, Football Book Reviews, Late Tackle magazine, Wigan Athletic, World Cup | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

Maloney works his magic – Wigan Athletic 2 Oxford United 0

Posted on October 25, 2023 by ianhaspinall
Stephen Humphrys Wigan Athletic

Stephen Humphrys on target for the Tics

  • Manager Shaun Maloney produced a tactical masterclass as Wigan Athletic defeated second place Oxford United 2-0 at the DW Stadium.
  • The visitors started confidently stroking the ball around but the hosts absorbed the early pressure before counterattacking superbly for the opening goal.
  • Stephen Humphrys calmly finishing after good work by Liam Shaw and Thelo Aasgaard in the 17th minute.
  • In a game of real quality both teams played attractive football creating plenty of chances at both ends.
  • But it was Latics who sealed the victory on 81 minutes when substitute Callum Lang curled a superb free-kick into the top corner for his first goal of the season.
  • Despite the victory Latics remain in 21st place in League One and Oxford remain in second.

Maloney made three changes to the starting line-up that defeated Exeter on Saturday with Jordan Jones,  Shaw and Aasgaard replacing Tom Pearce, Scott Smith and Josh Stones.

Oxford started confidently and quickly exerted pressure on Latics goal. In the 7th minute Marcus McGuane tested Sam Tickle from range, but the Tics keeper did well to push the ball away.

Stan Mills then called Tickle into action again on 12 minutes as he cut inside and forced a good save down to his left.

On 17 minutes after absorbing the early pressure and against the run of play Latics counterattacked superbly and took the lead.

Shaw did well to hold off his man and feed Aasgaard. On the turn, he slipped in Humphrys one on-one with the keeper and he made no mistake by calmly slipping the ball into the far corner of the net.

Latics continued to defend solidly, they gradually grew more into the game and they were always dangerous on the counter attack through Jones, Godo and Humphrys.

Mills tried his luck from 35 yards, two minutes before the interval, but Tickle saved comfortably.

1-0 to Latics at half time.

Early in the second half Rodrigues had the first effort at goal but Tickle once again saved comfortably.

Maloneyball was now in full swing as they continued to grow in confidence passing the ball with precision and skill.

Jones crossed for the unmarked Aasgaard, but his header went straight at James Beadle.

Maloney’s men were getting better and better and when Steven Sessegnon played in Godo, it looked like he would score but somehow Beadle got a hand to his strike and tipped the ball round the post.

From the resulting corner Charlie Hughes headed onto the roof of the net before at the other end Tickle did well to tip over McGuane’s dipping effort.

Substitute Pearce crossed for the arriving Godo on 68 minutes, but Ciaron Brown produced a superb block to deny him.

With ten minutes remaining Godo broke forward dangerously and was unceremoniously brought down on the edge of the box.

Substitute Lang stepped up to curl in a fantastic free-kick from 20 yards into the top corner to seal the three points for Latics.

Substitute Josh Stones might’ve added a third in added time, but his effort was tipped onto the crossbar by Beadle and from the resulting corner Beadle denied Stones again this time with a downward header.

Latics celebrated back to back wins which should give them a big boost going into the next three home league fixtures against Shrewsbury Town, Charlton Athletic and Peterborough United.

Overview

This was a tactical masterclass by Shaun Maloney. His team had carried out his instructions superbly. They had set up to absorb the high-flying visitors pressure and they hit them on the counter.

Oxford are a very good team under Liam Manning and they will be serious promotion contenders but Latics handled them excellently. Maloney has organised his young team very well and they are much improved defensively after a stern test at Exeter. They generally restricted Oxford to shots from distance and they played out from defence with great composure.

There were some very good performances on the night with Tickle, Baba Adeeko, Shaw, and Humphrys particularly impressive but the whole team is now showing improvement.

If they can continue to perform in this manner they will soon pull away from the relegation zone.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Maloney said he was delighted that his side were able to back up their victory at Exeter City with another outstanding huge three points against an Oxford side who had not lost since September.

“I’m really pleased. I thought the performance had a bit of everything.

“We played against a good opponent and limited them to not too many chances. At the moment, we are clinical at the moment.

“It’s a big thing we’ve been working on, and for large parts of the season, we’ve been very good attacking.

“We’ve been less so defensively and the last two games have been a big improvement. Let’s not take our foot off the gas and go again this weekend.

“Once we got a grip of what they wanted to do with the ball, it gave us a platform to go and play, and I want even more.

“Back to work tomorrow and we go again Saturday. The last two games have been good as a team. I’ve loved the impact of the players coming off the bench, and it’s making it really hard. They were very good today.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Callum Lang, League One, Oxford United, Shaun Maloney, Stephen Humphrys, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments