Lacklustre Latics in downward spiral – Burton Albion 2 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on October 4, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Charlie Hughes gave Latics the lead with a superb volley

  • Wigan Athletic slumped to a disappointing 2-1 defeat at fellow League One strugglers Burton Albion.
  • Latics had been unconvincing in the first half but they taken the lead with a superbly executed volley by Charlie Hughes on 44 minutes.
  • The Brewers drew level on 68 minutes as Sean Clare gave the ball away on the edge of the box and Joe Powell hit a low strike from 25-yards which found the bottom corner of the net.
  • With six minutes of normal time remaining Latics defender Kell Watts handled the ball in the area and Powell converted the spot kick.
  • Beryly Lubala was given a red card on 89 minutes but despite seven minutes of added time the Brewers comfortably held on, with Latics only managing one shot on target all night.
  • Latics drop to 23rd place in the table and the Brewers move up to 18th place.

Shaun Maloney made six changes from the team defeated by Portsmouth on Saturday with Sean Clare, Tom Pearce, Liam Shaw, Callum McManaman, Callum Lang and Josh Magennis all starting.

Latics started strongly and they had three early opportunities to go ahead. Almost from the kick-off Magennis had two chances when he broke free of his marker and ran towards goal. His first attempt was blocked by a defender and then when he looked odds on to score his second strike was deflected for a corner.

From the resulting corner the ball fell loose in the six-yard box but Hughes was unable to make a good contact and the chance went begging.

On 18 minutes Lang played a good through ball to McManaman and the winger looked to have evaded his marker but his final shot lacked conviction and dribbled wide of the post.

As Maloney’s men failed to capitalise on their chances the hosts grew in confidence and gradually started to assert themselves.

A shot from distance was spilled by Sam Tickle, the ball fell to a Latics defender who cleared but only as far as Gordon whose strike from outside the area had to be tipped over the crossbar by Tickle.  

A minute later Steve Seddon’s header from inside the six-yard box just cleared the crossbar and soon afterwards Lubala’s strike was narrowly wide of the post as Latics were under pressure.

But against the run of play Latics went ahead in the 44th minute. A Magennis long throw from the right  was headed out to Hughes on the edge of the area and he powerfully volleyed into the bottom corner.  

There was still time for the hosts to threaten however, as Lang made a brilliant block in the area to deny Adedeji Oshilaja an equaliser.

1-0 to Latics at half time.

Maloney replaced the yellow carded Baba Adeeko with James Balagizi at half time. 

The game became very scrappy for awhile with neither team able to demonstrate much cohesion but the hosts once again started to take control as Latics were giving the ball away far too easily.

Shaw was dispossessed in midfield on 64 minutes and Powell’s strike from outside the box was well saved by Tickle. 

Martial Godo replaced the tiring McManaman on 65 minutes as Maloney looked to improve his attacking options.

But it was hosts who continued to dominate and from a set-piece situation Ryan Sweeney headed just wide of the target.

The Brewers were ahead two minutes later as Clare gave the ball away on the edge of the box and  Powell’s low strike found the bottom corner from 25-yards.

Magennis and Pearce were replaced by Steven Sessesgnon and Stephen Humprys on 74 minutes.

But the hosts continued to press forward with Kwado Baah having a strike from the left side of the box  blocked on 76 minutes.

Latics struggled to build any meaningful momentum going forward and matters got worse on 84 minutes when Kell Watts handled the ball in the area and referee Sunny Sukhvir Gill awarded a penalty to the Brewers.

Watts appeared to be pushed as he went up for the ball, but his hand was way above his head and the referee was always likely to give a penalty in the circumstances.

Powell converted the spot kick to put the Brewers in control.

In the 89th minute Lubala was shown a red card for a foul on Balagizi.

But despite the man advantage and seven minutes of added time the hosts comfortably held on for the victory.

Overview 

Latics’ fans who were expecting an improved performance at Burton were sadly disappointed as Maloney’s men turned in a dire display against fellow strugglers. 

Apart from the opening period when Latics had three good chances to take the lead, they rarely threatened the Brewers’ goal and several players underperformed against some very average opposition.

The defending was shambolic at times with Clare presenting Gordon with the opportunity for the first goal and Watts handling the ball for the penalty. Latics too often gave the ball away in defensive positions and a better team than Burton would have made the most of the opportunities.

Latics have gone backwards in recent weeks and the performances have become increasingly disappointing, Bristol Rovers was pretty dreadful and tonight’s performance was not much better.

Maloney’s team selection was a strange one tonight with six changes and the combative Scott Smith left out of midfield, striker Stephen Humphrys on the bench and their best attacking player Martial Godo also on the bench. The manager may have had his eyes on the weekend game at Stevenage but not securing the three points at Burton was a big mistake.

For whatever reason several of the players are just not performing to their abilities at the moment. Lang, Aasgaard, Clare, Rekik and Pearce are all out of form and the team overall are making too many silly mistakes. 

Latics have now lost five of their last six games and are second bottom of the table.

The optimism of early season has now dissipated and unless there is a massive improvement there are worrying times ahead.  

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Maloney was reluctant to accept that his team had performed badly.

He believed there was not much to separate the two sides, and emphasised there is no time for disappointment, and Latics’ focus must swiftly turn to Stevenage. 

“I think the performance was everything I expected really. It was a very difficult game. The two goals are really difficult to take. Everything I asked the players to do, they did. Sometimes you don’t get what you deserve. I don’t think there was a lot (between the two sides) in the game, maybe just a couple of moments.

“We created some chances. I was happy with the performance. We knew the way Burton played, they play two or three passes and then they really put a lot of numbers on your last line, that’s why we played a back three tonight. What has been an issue for us recently is giving up big chances. Today, we limited them to very little and it’s difficult for the players to take. 

“Two mistakes have cost us. We don’t have much time to dwell on that, and we have to go again. Tonight it’s just one of those nights where we didn’t get what we deserved, but that’s football.”

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Posted in Burton Albion, Charlie Hughes, Joe Powell, League One, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics edged out by the League leaders – Wigan Athletic 1 Portsmouth 2

Posted on October 2, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Martial Godo gave Latics the lead

  • Ten-man Wigan Athletic were narrowly defeated 2-1 by League One leaders Portsmouth at the DW Stadium.
  • Latics went ahead on 27 minutes after a flowing move superbly finished by Fulham loanee Martial Godo.
  • The visitors drew level four minutes later as Jack Sparkes’ corner was flicked on by Colby Bishop for Regan Poole to bundle over the line.
  • Portsmouth took the lead on 37 minutes when Paddy Lane fired the ball past Sam Tickle after Joe Rafferty had headed the ball down.
  • The hosts were reduced to 10-men early in the second half when Charlie Wyke was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Marlon Pack.
  • The ten-men battled to the end and they had a strong shout for a penalty for hand ball by Pack but Portsmouth held on to strengthen their position at the top of the table.
  • Latics are in 22nd place while Portsmouth are now one point ahead of second place Oxford United.

Maloney made four changes to the side that were defeated 4-1 by Bristol Rovers, with Sean Clare, Liam Morrison, Matt Smith and Callum Lang being replaced by Kell Watts, Scott Smith and Stephen Humphrys, with Steven Sessesgnon also coming in to make his Latics debut.

In a closely fought opening period the first opportunity came in the 18th minute.

Thelo Aasgaard broke into the Portsmouth penalty area and went down under a challenge but referee  Will Finnie waved away Latics’ appeals.

Latics had a great opportunity to go ahead a minute later as Godo cut the ball back to Scott Smith inside the area but the midfielder fired over the crossbar. 

The hosts did go ahead on 27 minutes with the impressive Godo scoring his first League One goal. After a flowing move involving Rekik, Scott Smith and Wyke, the on-loan winger Godo went past his marker and cut inside before firing a low strike into the corner of the net.

The hosts now needed to not let the visitors back into the game, but they were quickly undone as Poole equalised in the 31st minute. Sparkes’ corner was headed towards goal, and as Latics defence failed to clear Poole bundled the ball over the line.

It was not long before Pompey added a second goal. Marlon Pack’s cross was headed back across goal by Rafferty to find Alex Robertson, and Lane fired past Tickle.

Early in the second half Latics’ task got much harder as they went down to 10-men after Wyke’s late challenge on Pack.

Maloney now had to make changes and he brought on Sean Clare and Callum Lang to replace Rekik and Aasgaard in the 54th minute.

Despite being a man down Latics worked hard to draw level but they struggled to create chances against a resolute Pompey. 

Jonny Smith replaced Humphrys in the 68th minute as Latics pushed for the equaliser but it was the visitors who went closest in the 72nd minute.

After a neat piece of skill Gavin Whyte broke into the Latics penalty area and produced a low drive towards the near post, but Tickle did well to get down and push the ball wide of the goal.

Maloney continued to make changes to try and draw his team level, with Callum McManaman and Josh Magennis replacing Godo and Sessesgnon.

Latics best chance of the half came when McManaman did well to beat his marker and cross to the far post to find Jonny Smith, but unfortunately the winger headed wide of the target.

Pompey might have increased their lead in the 84th minute but for a superb save by Tickle. Robertson’s low drive from the edge of the area looked destined for the bottom corner, but Tickle produced a full length dive to his right to tip the ball around the post.

The hosts continued to work hard against the 11-men, but they just couldn’t fashion any real goalscoring opportunities and Pompey held out fairly comfortably.

Overview

This performance wasn’t as bad as Bristol Rovers, but Latics were outplayed in the first half and then after Wyke’s red card they just couldn’t repair the damage against tough opposition.

Latics will not come up against much stronger opponents than Portsmouth who are unbeaten in 21 games and deservedly lead the League One table. 

Maloney’s young team are still learning and some careless defending and a red card put paid to their hopes against Pompey.

Referee Finnie had a poor game and incensed the home crowd with many of his decisions. On another day the referee might’ve awarded at least one penalty as Aasgaard and then Wyke were pushed in the box and Pack handled the ball.

Looking positively Fulham loanee Godo was again very impressive on the wing and he took his goal with great aplomb. Scott Smith was tenacious in midfield and added more steel to an area where Latics have struggled recently. Stephen Sessesgnon had a promising debut at right back, and as he gets fitter he should be a good addition. 

Latics travel to Burton Albion on Tuesday night knowing they must quickly get back to winning ways after the recent setbacks. They will be without striker Wyke, so it is likely that Magennis will deputise and there could be a start for midfielder Liam Shaw who impressed against Leicester U21’s in the Football League Trophy. 

Post match comments

Maloney was disappointed with the defeat, but was proud of his team’s efforts after their resolute second half display with a man less.

“I was really proud of the team in the second half, Maloney said afterwards, “I think the difference in the game was they defended their box better than we did. For the first 35 minutes, I was very happy with how we played against the best team in the league at the moment.

“When we went down to 10 men I think the effort the team showed and the supporters really got behind the players and clapped them off at the end. It’s never nice to get beat, but the difference between how I feel this week to last week is very different.”

“Our goal was brilliant with how we played through Portsmouth, but it’s not enough. I think that’s a big lesson the youngsters have to take. That intensity has to be there to stop a cross, the concentration and understanding of the positions to defend when a cross does come in. We’re all in a rush to win games and get to where we’re trying to get to. I’m the same, but we also have to improve the younger players and it’s that balance between developing players and trying to win games.”

On the difference between his side and the visitors Portsmouth, Maloney admitted that Latics need to improve their defending in their own box. 

“I think the difference in the game was they defended their box better than we did. For the first 35 minutes, I was very happy with how we played against the best team in the league at the moment.

“When we went down to ten men I think the effort the team showed and the supporters really got behind the players and clapped them off at the end. It’s never nice to get beat, but the difference between how I feel this week to last week is very different.”

Godo was impressive and took his first Latics goal very well and the Gaffer was quick to point that out.

“Martial’s been excellent. In the three games he’s had he’s been brilliant. He trained like that the first 10 days he was here. That’s why, straight away he started. He’s been excellent.

“This is what we want. We want exciting players in wide areas. When I came in I made us very hard to beat, now I want us to be exciting to watch. I want us to win games, desperately want us to win games, but we do have talented players, and Martial is definitely one of them.”

Maloney was quizzed on the red card to Charlie Wyke and a number of penalty shouts which were turned down.

“I haven’t seen those two back (Aasgaard and Wyke penalty appeals). The handball one I think the referee got it wrong, but I never stand hear and complain too often about referees. Maybe that one went against us but you get that in football. Maybe in a few weeks, we’ll get one go for us,” he continued.

“(On the red card) At the time I thought it was harsh. I’ve seen it again, but I’ll have to see it from the other angle. From the angle I’ve just seen I think maybe the referee got it right, but I’ll have to see it again from the other angle. It had a big impact on the game. It was hard enough 11 v 11 against the best team in the league. It became even harder with one less man”.

The manager also added that despite the result, the focus must now switch to Burton on Tuesday night.

“We go straight into training tomorrow. I don’t like losing games, but there are certain ways you can accept it. Last week I couldn’t accept. This week, sometimes things happen in a match that makes things harder in terms of sending-offs,” he concluded.

“I was proud of the performance and pleased with large parts of it, but we have to improve on our defending of the box. If we do that then we’re a match for any team in this league. This (Portsmouth) is the best team in our league and for the majority of the game, I thought we were very good. But we need to understand the importance of stopping crosses and defending our box or otherwise, we’re going to need three or four goals every game.”  

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Posted in Charlie Wyke, League One, Martial Godo, Paddy Lane, Portsmouth, Regan Poole, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Rampant Rovers thump fragile Latics – Bristol Rovers 4 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on September 25, 2023 by ianhaspinall

A rare Latics attack at the Memorial Ground

  • Wigan Athletic were comprehensively defeated 4-1 at Bristol Rovers.
  • The hosts were ahead after only 13 minutes when Luke Thomas was too easily allowed to cut in from the right and shoot past Sam Tickle.
  • Latics briefly rallied and Charlie Wyke brought the visitors level on 21 minutes when he tapped home from close range.
  • But Rovers were soon back in front as five minutes later Jack Hunt scored from a tight angle with Latics defence statuesque.
  • Things got worse for the visitors in the second half as Rovers dominated, and they increased their advantage when Aaron Collins finished from 12 yards after Tickle’s scuffed clearance went straight to a Rovers player.
  • The Tics just couldn’t get out of their half and Rovers added a fourth when John Marquis headed in at the near post from Hunt’s cross on 68 minutes.
  • Latics drop to 21st place in the League One table and Rovers are now in 12th place.

Shaun Maloney made one change to the starting line-up hat defeated Cambridge United, with Callum Lang replacing Stephen Humphrys, who was named on the bench.

Latics had an early chance to take the lead when Sean Clare won the ball and found Wyke, who fed Thelo Aasgaard in a good position but Aasgaard’s shot was dragged wide of the target.

The home side responded and in the 12th minute they were ahead. Rovers winger Thomas was allowed to cut inside and he curled the ball into the far corner of the net.

The Tics were level on 21 minutes. Martial Godo got past his defender and crossed towards the far post, Callum Lang headed the ball back across goal, and goalkeeper Cox could only push the ball to the edge of the area. The ball fell to Clare whose deflected shot was tapped home by Wyke for his sixth goal of the season.

But the home side quickly regained the lead six minutes later. Aaron Collins unleashed a powerful shot from range, which Tickle did well to push away, but Rovers continued the attack and the ball come to Hunt at the far post who managed to score from a tight angle with Latics’ defence statuesque.

2-1 to the hosts at the interval.

Maloney introduced wingback Tom Pearce to replace Omar Rekik for the second half, but it was the home side who soon increased their lead.

Finley picked up Tickle’s scuffed clearance and played the ball over the top into the path of Collins, who smashed the ball into the far corner.

Maloney needed to make changes if the Tics were to get back in the game and he introduced Stephen Humphrys for Aasgaard on 55 minutes.

But the visitors continued to be pegged back in their own half and it took a full length low save from Tickle to keep out Antony Evans’ powerful long-range strike.

Josh Magennis and Scott Smith replaced Lang and Clare on 65 minutes in an attempt to change the direction of travel but Joey Barton’s team added a fourth in the 68th minute. Hunt found space down the right and his cross into the near post was headed powerfully into the net by Marquis.

Callum McManaman replaced Godo in the 79th minute as Latics tried to get a consolation goal but it was to no avail as Bristol Rovers ran out deserved winners.

Latics will require a big improvement if they are to overcome unbeaten Portsmouth at the DW Stadium next Saturday.

Overview

This was a very disappointing performance by Latics as they lost the battle in most areas of the pitch.

They were just too fragile throughout and their soft centre was exposed by a more competitive Rovers. Matt Smith, Baba Adeeko, Charlie Hughes, Liam Morrison, Tickle and Rekik all had an off day.

Maloney’s men currently lack tempo and often their decision making is just too slow. Lang and Aasgaard were particularly ineffective in this game.

After this sub-standard display Maloney will have plenty of food for thought. Latics are a young and inexperienced team but this performance fell well below the standards required.

His preferred line up is failing at the moment and changes will have to be made in defence with a possible return for Kell Watts and Pearce and in midfield with a start for Liam Shaw.

Wyke and Godo did their best but they just didn’t get the service they require and deserve.

Humphrys did ok as a late substitute and he should surely start next week against Portsmouth.

Shaun Maloney with plenty of food for thought

Post match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards Maloney said it was the first half display which disappointed him, admitting his side lacked desire and aggression.

“I was really disappointed with the first half, I think I’ve spoken before on camera about almost wasting a half of football. I felt we had chances in the first half, but that we were actually lucky to go in 2-1 down. I thought we were nowhere near it in terms of just our desire without the ball.

“The second half were when mistakes happen. There’s things within in it where I still want more in terms of being a lot more aggressive when we have the ball. But at the point where it starts to get to three, and four goals, they’re (Bristol Rovers) very happy.

“I think with the squad we have, there’s moments where in the first part of the season we’ve won three or four and we think everything’s very, very good. Then we have two back-to-back away defeats. I felt a similar feeling as I did last time and it’s something I have to eradicate. We have to play every single game like it means the absolute world to us.”

On the goals conceded, Maloney believed Latics could have defended better, but admitted Bristol Rovers were the better team on the day.

“We could have sprinted quicker to recover, and then particularly the fourth goal we could have defended our box better,” he continued.

“We were two vs. one against their nine. It sort of summed up the day really. They were better than us in terms of how they wanted to compete. They were the better team than us today. It’s a sore one when that happens.”

The manager went on to admit that consistency is something his young Tics’s side must now try and find.

“Some of these players have played less than 10 league games in their senior careers. I have to be aware of that. I take it for granted Charlie Hughes is 19 years-old, I don’t even know if he’s played 30 games yet but I’m relying so heavily on him, the same as Sam Tickle.

“Sometimes, we’re going to have to take a blow like this. You can lose games. That’s football, you have to get used to it at times. It doesn’t make it any easier, but as long as we give 100% in every action, generally, I won’t be too angry with the players. But when they don’t, then I can’t accept it.”

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Posted in Aaron Collins, Bristol Rovers, Charlie Wyke, Jack Hunt, John Marquis, League One, Luke Thomas, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Godo brings some magic to the Tics – Wigan Athletic 2 Cambridge United 1

Posted on September 18, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Martlal Godo

  • Fulham loanee Martial Godo produced an impressive performance to help Wigan Athletic get back to winning ways against Cambridge United.
  • Latics had lost their last two games but the on-loan winger making his debut helped to make the difference against the U’s.
  • The Tics might have gone ahead in the first half when Charlie Wyke hit the post and later forced a double save from goalkeeper Will Mannion.
  • In a rare attack for the visitors Sullay Kaikai’s long distance strike was well saved by keeper Sam Tickle.
  • In the second half Stephen Humphrys broke the deadlock on 57 minutes when he cut inside and curled a superb strike into the corner.
  • Five minutes later the Tics doubled their lead. Godo received the ball at the back post and the winger turned the defender inside and out before teeing-up Thelo Aasgaard who smashed the ball in off the crossbar.
  • Substitute Callum McManaman made a rash challenge in the box on James Brophy on 76 minutes and Fejiri Okenabirhie converted the subsequent penalty for Cambridge.
  • Despite late Cambridge pressure Latics held on for the three points.
  • Latics remain in 20th place in the League One table and Cambridge are now in 10th place.

Shaun Maloney made several changes to the team which lost at Blackpool with Godo, Omar Rekik, Aasgaard and Charlie Hughes all starting.

The visitors threatened first when Kaikai fired across goal but Sam Tickle saved with his feet before Gassan Ahadme’s header was easily saved by the Tics keper.

The hosts had a glorious opportunity to take the lead on seven minutes, Aasgaard put Wyke through on goal, but the normally prolific striker could only hit the base of the post and the visitors survived.

Wyke went close again soon afterwards Sean Clare crossing for the big striker but his close range efforts were twice denied by goalkeeper Mannion.

Godo was causing the visitors plenty of problems down the right hand side but also defending well when required.

Tics were enjoying the lion’s share of possession but the visitors threatened when Kaikai tried his luck from distance forcing a good save from Tickle before Michael Morrison headed wide of the far post. 

The Tics broke the deadlock in the 57th minute when Humphrys drove forward down the left before cutting inside and curling a superb strike into the far corner.

Five minutes later the Tics doubled their lead. Godo received the ball at the back post and the winger turned the defender inside and out before teeing-up Thelo Aasgaard who smashed the ball in off the crossbar.

George Thomas had an opportunity for the visitors on 65 minutes, but he fired over from 20 yards.

However, the visitors pulled a goal back on 76 minutes when substitute McManaman made a rash challenge in the box on Brophy and Okenabirhie converted from the penalty spot.

Cambridge applied pressure as Latics sat deep in added time and Okenabirhie was denied a second after some great last-ditch defending.

It had been a mixed display by Maloney’s men but they held out at the end and were relieved to have got back to winning ways.

Overview

Latics certainly looked more of an attacking threat against Cambridge with Godo impressing on his debut. The Fulham loanee comes to the club highly regarded by the Fulham fans. If he can continue like he has started the Tics fans are in for a treat this season.

Maloney now has good attacking options with wide men Godo, McManaman, Humphrys, Jonny Smith and Jordan Jones all competing for a place in the starting line-up.

Charlie Hughes returning to the team after suspension brought much needed stability to the defence and Liam Morrison probably had his best game for the Tics.

There is, of course, still room for improvement as the build up play can be too slow and the team sometimes struggles to play through the centre of midfield. A more central role for Aasgaard would help to rectify this and link up play with the forwards.

However, overall Maloney’s new team have started the season very well. It’s worth noting that without the eight point deduction this team would be on the verge of the play-offs.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards Maloney was happy with how his players performed both in and out of possession and with how they protected their lead at the end. 

“The last 10 minutes – we showed a side to us which I think we’ve shown previously,” he said.

“When we have to defend, we can defend when we are at it out of possession. The game shouldn’t have ended like that.

“At two-nil, we should’ve been taking control of the game more, but I am very happy. I am very happy with a lot of it.

“I know it’s tough for the fans, everyone has to stay patient, and sometimes we can move it quicker but it’s hard to break these teams down.

“When we get it right, we’ve got talented players and we scored a brilliant goal to break the deadlock.

“I am confident. I’ve seen enough in training and in previous matches this year that we are a goal threat.

“It’s something very different to what we were in my spell last season and a way of speed. 

“I’ve still got confidence, and I can feel the Stadium. When we’re more clinical, the feeling is different but overall I am very happy with the players.”

Martial Godo set up Aasgaard’s decisive goal, and Maloney heaped the praise on the Fulham loanee for his impressive debut display.

“I’m very pleased. I pushed really hard to get him from Fulham, and for a first senior game, I think he was very good.

“He’s a talented boy, and it’s a good start. He knows he needs to keep it going because there are players breathing down every starter’s neck.”

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Posted in Cambridge United, Fejiri Okenabirhie, League One, Martial Godo, Shaun Maloney, Stephen Humphrys, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Lethargic Latics lacking creativity  – Blackpool 2 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on September 4, 2023 by ianhaspinall
Blue skies over Bloomfield Road
  • Wigan Athletic suffered their second defeat of the season as they lost 2-1 to Blackpool at Bloomfield Road.
  • Blackpool were ahead after only four minutes when new signing Jordan Rhodes converted CJ Hamilton’s cross.
  • Latics struggled to respond and the hosts might’ve added to their lead but Tics keeper Sam Tickle did well to save Jensen Weir’s long range strike and Callum Connolly’s deflected free-kick.
  • Latics did up their game in the second half and Callum Lang wasted a great chance to put them level.
  • They did draw level in the 89th minute when substitute Josh Magennis headed past Daniel Grimshaw from Stephen Humphrys’ dinked cross.
  • But it was to no avail as in the 94th minute substitute Matty Virtue’s low cross was turned home by fellow substitute Kenny Dougall to secure victory for Blackpool.
  • Latics drop to 21st place in the League One table and Blackpool climb to 12th.

Shaun Maloney made one change to the starting line-up that lost against Barnsley with Liam Morrison coming in to replace the suspended Charlie Hughes.

In Latics’ first attack Callum McManaman might have been awarded a penalty.

Callum Lang drove forward at the Blackpool defence before he played in McManaman. The winger appeared to be caught as he chopped back inside his marker, but referee Anthony Backhouse waved away the Tics appeals.

Blackpool were ahead on four minutes. CJ Hamilton was given far too much space down Latics’ left-hand side and was unchallenged as he crossed for new signing Jordan Rhodes to score.

Latics tried to respond, and Stephen Humphrys’ shot was narrowly wide of the far post, with the ball going just out of the reach of Lang.

At the other end Tickle made a superb save to deny former Latic Jason Weir’s strike from distance.

Tickle was in fine form and made another fantastic save in the 22nd minute.

Another former Latic Callum Connolly fired a low free kick towards the far post, with a deflection looking to have taken it beyond Tickle but Latics’ keeper stuck out a superb right hand to grab the ball.

Although Latics were dominating possession they lacked the creativity to breakthrough the Blackpool formation and the hosts always looked dangerous on the counter attack.

Latics did go close in the 41st minute, Matt Smith’s free kick from the right was headed on by Humphrys to Kell Watts, but the defender’s close-range header was narrowly over the Seasiders’ crossbar.

The second half started well for the hosts with Hamilton once again tormenting Pearce down right-hand side. Only a brilliant defensive tackle from Liam Morrison diverted the ball away from Rhodes adding a second goal.

Latics should’ve been level soon afterwards as Humphrys broke down the right-hand side and fed Charlie Wyke who cut the ball back to the on-rushing Lang, but the striker saw his effort saved by Grimshaw. From the follow up McManaman had a goal disallowed for offside.

At the other end Hamilton continued to threaten setting up Albie Morgan to strike from just inside the box, but Tickle once again came to Latics rescue.

Maloney introduced substitutes Jonny Smith and James Balagizi for McManaman and Sean Clare but it was Tickle again performing heroics as he got down low to push away a curling Hamilton strike.

Maloney introduced Magennis from the bench as Latics continued to put the Seasiders’ defence under pressure and they drew level in the 89th minute.

Humphrys dinked a delightful ball into the far post, and Magennis rose highest to head beyond Grimshaw.

Excited at the prospect of winning the game they pushed forward but were hit on the counter attack with Dougall tapping in a 94th minute winner for the hosts.

Latics lost Morrison to injury soon afterwards as their afternoon got worse.

Plenty of food for thought for Maloney as the club now go into a two week hiatus due to the international break.

Overview

Latics are a young team and very much a work in progress but several players seriously underperformed at Blackpool.

Without the controlling influence of Charlie Hughes the team struggled for any real cohesion.

Matt Smith wasn’t at his best and was unable to dictate the play which resulted in too much sideways and backwards passing.

Latics just lacked the ideas and creativity to break through the Blackpool formation. Lang, Wyke, Humphrys and McManaman all struggled to make any impact in the first half.

Tom Pearce had a dreadful game, completely out of sorts and was at fault in the build up to both goals. He allowed Hamilton to cross the ball unchallenged for the first goal and was caught out of position for the second.

Despite an improved second half by Latics, Blackpool had been the better team. If it was not for the heroics of goalkeeper Sam Tickle, who has been called up by England U21s this week, the Seasiders would have surely won by more.

Post match comments

Speaking after the game to the media Maloney said he was disappointed that he was unable to repay the sold-out away crowd with a positive result following the late heartbreak.

“It is devastating when you lose to a goal that late,” he said.

“It is really difficult for the players and supporters because they feel the emotion, especially after the high of equalising and then conceding.

“I am disappointed again that I can’t come here and give the Away support a win, or at least something to come back with.

“I can’t criticise the way we defended the box with the goal because Liam (Morrison) stayed on the pitch when he was injured.

“The biggest thing is that we wasted a half – and when we come to a big club in our league, we can’t just waste a half when a team gives us the ball.

“The reason we have the ball is to try and dictate the game on our terms and there were definitely moments when the space opened up, we have to be more aggressive.

“My mentality is that I want to win games, and that’s what we will spend the next couple of weeks focusing on.”

The Gaffer was appreciative of the fans staying until the final whistle, and spoke of his determination to win games of football for them.

“The goal in the last minute really hurts but that’s football.

“I really do appreciate the fans clapping in tough moments and I think they know where the Club is at but that doesn’t mean I accept getting beat. I’ll be working very hard to give the fans as many wins as we can – we all want it!”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com
Posted in Blackpool, Jordan Rhodes, Josh Magennis, Kenny Dougall, League One, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Review – Football And How to Survive It by Pat Nevin

Posted on August 30, 2023 by ianhaspinall

This is Pat Nevin’s second memoir, a follow up to his first successful memoir ‘The Accidental Footballer’. It covers the period with his less glamorous clubs – Tranmere Rovers, Kilmarnock and Motherwell and reflects on a time of what he calls, ‘extreme madness, higher levels of fun and deeper levels of pain…’

Few others have seen football from as many angles as Nevin. He was a top player, international, PFA chairman, a chief executive, served on boards, a columnist and TV and radio pundit.

Nevin’s memoir is unlike many footballers’ memoirs which concentrate on the high life, the successes, and dramas of being a professional footballer. He is far more insightful about the football industry and has much more to say than the average player.

He is not afraid to discuss the difficult times such as, the death from cancer of his mother, the premature death of his friend Tommy Coyne’s wife, and his own son’s autism.

Nevin enjoyed an eventful but enjoyable time at Tranmere under the stewardship of idiosyncratic manager Johnny King. Tranmere played attractive attacking football and went close to promotion to the Premier League on several occasions, but they couldn’t quite make the step-up to round off his time at Prenton Park.

When Nevin returns to Scotland he joins Kilmarnock under manager Bobby Williamson. Everything goes well until he suffers a compressed fracture of the cheek bone in training. Kilmarnock achieve a fourth-place finish in the SPL and qualify for Europe, but the Directors of the club don’t honour their commitment to give the players bonuses and Nevin is rightly upset.

He is offered the opportunity to take over as CEO at Motherwell while continuing playing. It is the first such role in British football at the time. It is inevitably very demanding, especially as he has a long commute from his family.

Despite owner John Boyle’s initial enthusiasm, financial problems begin to mount, and the club is soon £4.4m in debt. The off-the-field problems, player conflicts, and media attacks are recounted as well as Nevin’s earnestness and remarkable honesty.

For example, during a game against St Johnstone Nevin trips over his own foot in the box and the referee awards a penalty. But Nevin tells the referee it wasn’t a penalty, and it isn’t awarded much to the shock of the players around him.

Motherwell finish fourth in the SPL as they beat Rangers 2-0 in Nevin’s last ever game, but he is asked to break up the team in the close season to alleviate the financial problems. He also has the difficult task of sacking manager Billy Davies when inevitably the following season’s results aren’t good enough.

The ownership has broken all their promises to Nevin, and they put the club into administration despite all his best efforts to find another solution.

He leaves with his head held high with his love of the game still intact and quotes American theologian Reinhold Niebuhr, who famously said, ‘God grant me the serenity to accept things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference.’

Nevin has managed to provide a deep insight into the workings of professional football in Britain. It is a remarkable story and thoroughly recommended if you want to know how football really operates.

Football And How to Survive It by Pat Nevin. Published by Monoray. Price £15.30.

This review first appeared in the September/October 2023 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in Football Book Reviews, Kilmarnock, Late Tackle magazine, Motherwell, Pat Nevin, Tranmere Rovers | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment

Tremendous Tics trounce Trotters – Bolton Wanderers 0 Wigan Athletic 4

Posted on August 21, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Stephen Humphrys grabbed a double. Photo courtesy of Wigan Athletic

  • Wigan Athletic enjoyed a tremendous away day as they stunned local rivals Bolton Wanderers with a 4-0 victory at the unfortunately named Toughsheet Stadium.
  • Latics were rampant in the opening half as first striker Charlie Wyke headed home on 12 minutes before Stephen Humphrys slotted the second after Callum Lang’s shot was parried by keeper Nathan Baxter in the 24th minute, and in first half stoppage time Humphrys added his second and Latics’ third.
  • Bolton enjoyed plenty of possession but failed get past keeper Sam Tickle and a resolute Latics defence.
  • Wyke added his second and Latics fourth goal in the 75th minute as they completed a spectacular rout of their opponents.
  • Latics have now wiped out their eight-point deduction and are on plus two points and sit in 19th place in the League One table. Bolton drop to second place after four games played.

Shaun Maloney made two changes to the starting eleven who drew with Carlisle United in midweek. Kell Watts came in for Liam Morrison whilst Humphrys was recalled to the team in place of the injured Thelo Aasgaard. 

Latics started brightly and created early pressure resulting in an early goal for Wyke. Tom Pearce’s corner found Wyke at the back post and he calmly headed into the corner of the net.

The Trotters looked for an instant response, but Tickle palmed away an early opportunity for the hosts.

But it was Latics who added to their lead on 24 minutes. Lang pressed forward winning the ball high up the field, he drove forward before firing a low strike which goalkeeper Baxter palmed into the path of Humphrys who made no mistake with the follow up.

At the other end Dan Nlundulu got on the end of Aaron Morley’s cross, but his effort was straight at Tickle. Nlundulu then tried his luck from inside the box but Tickle was again able to save.

As the match moved into first half stoppage time Latics sealed their first half dominance with a third goal. Lang broke free of a static Bolton backline before firing a shot at goal which was saved by the keeper, but Humphrys was again the man on the spot as he grabbed his second goal and Latics third. Latics fans were in Dreamland now, 3-0 to the Tics at half-time.

Early in the second half the hosts had an opportunity to get a goal back as the ball fell kindly to Josh Dacres-Cogley inside the box, but he somehow missed the target.

Ian Evatt’s team tried desperately to get a foothold but Latics defence were resolute.

Scott Smith and Liam Morrison replaced Callum McManaman and Humphrys on 67 minutes. 

Morrison was soon in the action and he came to Latics rescue on 70 minutes as he blocked superbly from Mendes Gomes in the box.

Despite Wanderers pressure Latics always looked dangerous on the counter attack and Wyke added a fourth goal on 75 minutes.  

The powerful striker added his fifth goal of the season when he drove forward and fired at the Wanderers goal and although keeper Baxter got a hand to it, he could not stop it from finding the back of the net. More joy for the travelling 4,000 Latics fanatics!

The Trotters had a chance for a late consolation through Jon Dadi Bodvarsson, but his effort flew wide before Baba Adeeko fired a speculative effort towards goal from near the right corner flag which Baxter did well to palm away from under his crossbar.

Cameron Jerome came off the bench for Bolton had a header hit the roof of the net late on but Latics held out fairly comfortably for a memorable 4-0 victory. The result was a repeat of the last time Latics played in Bolton, winning 4-0 on 16th October 2021.

Overview

This was a very impressive performance by Maloney’s young team. Not only did they produce some excellent football they were also very determined and fully committed to overcome a team who were one of the League One favourites, and had started the season with three wins out of three.

Bolton were without their top scorer Dion Charles due to suspension, but Latics won many of the 50/50 challenges and outfought a seemingly more experienced Bolton squad.

Latics had failed to be clinical against Carlisle United in midweek and this had resulted in two lost points, but on Saturday they were ruthless in their finishing with Wyke and Humphrys grabbing a couple of goals each.

It’s likely that Latics will need someone to get around 20 goals this season if they are to mount a serious promotion challenge, but on this form a reinvigorated Wyke who already has five goals, could be the man to do it. 

This young team is getting better week-by-week and expectations for the season are growing amongst the fanbase. It is still early days in League One but the prospect of reaching the playoffs doesn’t look beyond them.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards Shaun Maloney couldn’t hide his delight after an unbelievable result and performance. 

“It was outstanding,”he smiled.

“To a man, and the substitutes, I thought the team was brilliant. The players were brave, and Bolton are a good side.

“We made a decision to go really aggressive and the players deserve every bit of credit for that. From the first whistle to the last, I thought they were excellent. 

“I hope the fans enjoy every single bit of this. 

“I have to be humble because Bolton are a good team and started very well. We were very good.

“To come here with the amount of Academy players we have, new players, and the age of group, it’s a completely different Club. To come here again and have a result like this is special.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Bolton Wanderers, Charlie Wyke, League One, Shaun Maloney, Stephen Humphrys, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

Latics left rueing missed chances – Carlisle United 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on August 16, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Charlie Wyke finished with great aplomb

  • Wigan Athletic were held to a 1-1 draw with Carlisle United at Brunton Park in a game which they had controlled for long periods.
  • Charlie Wyke gave Latics the lead with a sublime finish after an excellent driving run and pass from midfielder Baba Adeeko on 34 minutes.
  • Latics should have added to their lead but Wyke hit the crossbar with another effort and Charlie Hughes headed against the post in a one-sided first half.
  • Carlisle drew level on 56 minutes after Matt Smith was dispossessed and Sean Maguire’s deflected shot fell to Owen Moxon who converted from close range.
  • The Cumbrians grew in confidence and posed more of a threat, however it was Latics Callum Lang and substitute Stephen Humphrys who had the best chances but the points were shared.
  • Latics remain unbeaten but are still on minus one point. Carlisle have two points and are in 19th place in the League One table.

Manager Shaun Maloney made two changes from Saturday’s victory against Northampton with Adeeko and Callum McManaman replacing Scott Smith and Stephen Humphrys in the starting line-up.

Latics enjoyed plenty of early possession and Sean Clare almost played in Wyke after only six minutes but the defender’s cross went across the six-yard box and evaded the big striker.

Lang drove forward on 11 minutes and fired wide of the target from 25-yards out. Soon afterwards McManaman tried his luck from the edge of the area but his strike was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Tomas Holy.

On 13 minutes Thelo Aasgaard threatened with a curling strike from 20-yards which just cleared the crossbar.

The visitors were dominating possession with Matt Smith and Adeeko controlling the midfield and playing some progressive passing football. The hosts were struggling to gain any meaningful possession and were lacking any goal threat.

Latics nearly went in front on 29 minutes when Tom Pearce’s dangerous cross found Wyke in the centre of the area but his downward shot was deflected onto the crossbar and over for a corner.

The visitors did go ahead five minutes later after a superb flowing move. Adeeko picked the ball up deep in his own half and drove forward before playing a slide-rule pass into Wyke who cleverly dinked the ball over the advancing keeper for a great finish.

They might have doubled their lead on 42 minutes when Pearce’s in-swinging free-kick was headed powerfully downwards by Hughes and against the post.

Carlisle’s first chance of the game came in the 48th minute when a deep cross found Ryan Edmondson at the back post but his header missed the target.

1-0 to Latics at half time.

Early in the second half the visitors should have added to their lead when Adeeko down the right did well to cut the ball back to Aasgaard, but the midfielder’s side-footed strike produced an excellent save from Carlisle keeper Holy. 

But against the run of play the hosts drew level on 56 minutes. Matt Smith was dispossessed and  Maguire’s deflected strike fell to Moxon in the area and the midfielder made no mistake from close range.

It was suddenly game on and now it was the hosts who looked the more dangerous. Carlisle upped their game and Tickle was forced to save at the back post.

Maloney replaced McManaman and Wyke with Stephen Humphrys and Josh Magennis on 70 minutes.

Humphrys broke free on 79 minutes and might have squared the ball to the well placed Lang in the area but instead fired wide of the far post.

Lang then a great chance on 81 minutes to restore Latics’ lead when Humphrys and Magennis combined to play him through into the box, but the striker fired over from a good position.

Latics continued to push forward in ten minutes of added time, but they couldn’t get the all important winner to move out of negative points and they remain on minus one point after three games.  

Overview

Latics can take many positives from an excellent first half in which they played attractive football and created some great chances. Matt Smith was once again central to Latics system under Maloney and his link up play is generally of the highest quality. Baba Adeeko also had a very promising full debut and was instrumental in Wyke’s goal. 

However, overall Latics they didn’t capitalise on their first half dominance and they wasted several good goalscoring opportunities. They really should have been out of sight by half time after creating such good opportunities. Wyke hit the crossbar and Hughes headed against the post and even in the second half Aasgaard, Lang and Humphrys all had great opportunities to seal the points.

Wyke has three goals already but Latics other strikers need to start scoring if they are to challenge this season. Although this was a point gained, it can also be seen as two points lost in a game that they had controlled for such long periods.

Latics will have to be more clinical in front of goal in the local derby against Bolton Wanderers on Saturday if they are to take all three points.

Post match comments 

Speaking afterwards, Shaun Maloney said

“The first half is as good a performance as I’ve had since I’ve been here.” 

“My only criticism is when we are that good, we have to put teams away. In the second half, it was a proper game and that’s what happens if you don’t put teams away.

“I actually enjoyed a lot of today – and it’s probably as good as we’ve played. The first half was as good as anything I’ve seen.

“I was desperate to win the game for obvious reasons to come out of minus points, but I’m very happy with how we played.”

Baba Adeeko played a key role in Wyke’s opener following a wonderful run from deep, and the Gaffer was full of praise for the Academy graduate who certainly impressed on his first full league debut. 

“Baba was outstanding – especially considering it was his first start. The pass for Charlie’s goal was very good.

“Charlie Wyke is playing at a very good level at the moment, and I’m asking a lot of him. Charlie ran himself into the ground and the quality he shows has been good. It was a very good night for Baba, and it’s the first of hopefully many.”

Thelo Aasgaard was sadly forced off through a shoulder injury in the Sky Bet League One encounter, and Maloney provided an update on the Norwegian youth international’s condition after the game. 

“It doesn’t look good, Thelo is in a lot of pain. It’s a shame because he is a top player in this league and the leagues above elsewhere. I hope it’s not as bad as we fear.

“It’s a shoulder injury. He fell really awkwardly and it’s a shame. We’ll see how he is.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Carlisle United, Charlie Wyke, League One, Owen Moxon, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

McManaman magic turns it around for the Tics – Wigan Athletic 2 Northampton Town 1

Posted on August 14, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Callum McManaman celebrates his goal. Photo courtesy of Wigan Athletic

  • Wigan Athletic made it two wins out of two in League One with a 2-1 victory against Northampton Town at the DW Stadium.
  • Northampton started well and the hosts trailed to Sam Hoskins superbly executed free-kick on 24 minutes.
  • Latics rallied in the second half when manager Shaun Maloney introduced substitute Callum McManaman on 55 minutes.
  • The hosts drew level when Tom Pearce’s corner was headed in at the back post by Charlie Hughes.
  • Latics secured a deserved victory when McManaman cut inside before unleashing a sublime strike into the top corner from 20 yards on 79 minutes.
  • Latics move to minus two points after their two League wins and the Cobblers are yet win.

Maloney made just one change to the line-up that defeated Derby County on the opening day with Scott Smith coming in for his first Latics league start.

Latics started slowly and Northampton could have been ahead after only two minutes. Will Hondermarck’s strike from the left side of the box hit Sam Tickle’s near post. The rebound came to Patrick Brough, but his shot was well blocked and cleared by Charlie Hughes.

At the other end captain Callum Lang crossed for the arriving Charlie Wyke who was inches away from tapping the ball home.

Wyke then went down in the box following a push after good play from Stephen Humphrys but referee Ross Joyce was unmoved.

The visitors were ahead on 24 minutes when Mitch Pinnock went down on the edge of the box following a challenge from Matt Smith and Hoskins curled a superb free-kick over the wall and into the top corner.

Latics tried to get back on level terms and Humphrys cross was flicked towards goal by Scott Smith, but wide of the target.

Humphrys later tried his luck when he cut inside, but his shot drifted just wide. Matt Smith then had an effort just wide of Max Thompson’s far post.

Latics were enjoying the Lion’s share of possession but the visitors were dangerous on the counter through Tyreece Simpson.

The Huddersfield loanee found Hoskins, but Sean Clare did well to block before Hondermarck then fired an effort from 25 yards just wide.

Latics began the second half strongly and Maloney introduced McManaman for Smith on 55 minutes.

The hosts surged forward and Clare fed Humphrys and as he cut inside he fired a powerful effort which was pushed away by Thompson. The ball came back in from McManaman, but Lang’s header was just wide of the target.

Maloney withdrew centre back Liam Morrison and brought on striker Chris Sze in a more attacking formation and it quickly paid dividends as Latics were level on 72 minutes when Hughes headed in at the back post from Pearce’s corner.

The Cobblers almost restored their lead and Latics had a lucky escape on 79 minutes as Brough’s shot from close range was narrowly wide of the post.

But moments later it was FA Cup winner McManaman who produced a fairytale finish to give Latics the three points when he cut inside three defenders and curled a sublime shot into the far corner.

Charlie Wyke almost added a third when he hit the post following a cross but the game ended 2-1 as Latics sealed back-to-back League victories and reduced the points deficit to minus two.

Overview

Despite a rocky opening period when Latics looked vulnerable against Northampton, it was a fairytale ending to the game as Maloney’s men came back from 1-0 down to win 2-1. With FA Cup winner McManaman returning to the club and producing a superb winning goal with his baby girl at her first game at the DW Stadium.

McManaman has had a rollercoaster career so far after the highs of winning the FA Cup with Latics. After time in Australia with Melbourne Victory he was released by Tranmere Rovers and spent six months out of the game, but he has now returned reinvigorated under Shaun Maloney’s guidance.

Everyone knows Callum is a fantastic talent and that he is capable of great things but he must now stay fit, push on and make this a very special season to remember.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Maloney said:

“There were a lot of positives – and I am so happy.

“They’ve turned up today, and for a very young group, they’ve shown they are ready to fight for them (the fans) and you could sense that something special is happening. Long may it continue! 

“It’s a huge effort from our fans. I appreciate them singing my name at the end. Whether we win, lose or draw, I will always clap them, and they are the motivation for me, the staff and the players.” 

The manager reserved special praise for the match-winner McManaman, who enjoyed a fantastic return to the DW Stadium by scoring the stunning winner.

“It’s an incredible day for him,” he smiled.

“It’s an incredible story with Callum, and every bit of praise he gets today, he deserves it. He’s earned the opportunity to play at this level, and he’s worked incredibly hard. I couldn’t be happier for Callum!”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

 

Posted in Callum McManaman, Charlie Hughes, League One, Northampton Town, Sam Hoskins, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Maloney’s young Tics upset the odds – Derby County 1 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on August 6, 2023 by ianhaspinall

Latics celebrate. Photo courtesy of Wigan Athletic

  • A youthful Wigan Athletic side shocked League One promotion favourites Derby County with a deserved 2-1 victory at Pride Park.
  • Latics went ahead on 37 minutes when Charlie Wyke capitalised on a mistake by Sonny Bradley before rounding the keeper and slotting the ball home.
  • Derby drew level on 56 minutes when a deflected cross found Craig Forsyth at the back post and the full-back volleyed into the net.
  • The visitors restored their advantage on 72 minutes when Wyke rose above goalkeeper Joe Wildsmith and headed Tom Pearce’s deep cross into the net.
  • Despite late Derby pressure and 11 minutes of added time, Latics held on for a great opening day result.

Latics started well and had a great chance to go ahead after only two minutes. A crossfield ball from Charlie Hughes to Stephen Humphrys saw him feed Thelo Aasgaard who pulled the ball back, but nobody could make the vital contact in the area.

Seven minutes in and Derby had their first chance. Nathaniel Mendez-Laing’s miss-hit shot came to James Collins free in the box, but Sam Tickle did well to tip the ball around the post.

Derby were now growing into the game and from the resulting corner, Bradley headed just wide from a great position. Forsyth then fired wide from the edge of the box as pressure mounted.

But on 14 minutes Latics’ had a great chance to go ahead. Callum McManaman beat his man and crossed for captain Callum Lang but the striker headed over from a great position.

At the other end Tickle was alert as he tipped Max Bird’s shot around the post.

Latics responded and from a clever corner Humphrys set up Aasgaard on the edge of the box and the midfielder curled a superb effort just over from 25 yards out.

The visitors were ahead on 37 mins after a mistake from Bradley allowed Wyke to run free and the striker calmly rounded the keeper to convert the chance.

Just before half time it should have been two. Wyke produced a lovely pass which played Lang through one-on-one, but the striker was denied by the goalkeeper Wildsmith.

Derby went close to a leveller right from the restart. A free-kick from the right found Forsyth at the back post, but his cut-back went right into the hands of Tickle on the goal line.

But the hosts drew level on 56 minutes. A deflected cross found Forsyth at the back post and he volleyed past Tickle.

Derby smelled an opportunity but Latics held firm. Tickle was again excellent as he made an instinctive save with his legs to deny James Collins.

Against the run of play Latics were back in front on 72 minutes. Tom Pearce produced a superb deep cross right on to the head of Wyke who beat the keeper Wildsmith to send the travelling 2,000 Tics fans into raptures.

Maloney sensibly decided to strengthen the midfield and defence as Baba Adeeko, Scott Smith and Kell Watts came on for the final minutes of the game.

Derby forced a succession of late corners, but despite 11 minutes of added time Latics held on for a deserved three points against the promotion favourites.

Overview

Manager Shaun Maloney has done remarkably well to rebuild the squad after the club nearly went out of business and lost so many players. He has already instilled an attractive style of football into his players. His young team is comfortable playing out from the back, they are remarkably composed on the ball and mature beyond their years. 

Latics had a youthful starting line-up at Derby with an average age of 24-years-old and with mainly academy graduates on the bench. 

Maloney has brought in eight new signings in the close season and four started at Derby and they they have fitted in so well already with Matt Smith particularly impressive in the midfield.

Other stand out performers were Academy products Tickle, Hughes and Aasgaard and the rejuvenated striker Wyke.

It must be a tremendous boost for the club to have Wyke lead the line so well and score two excellent goals. The former Sunderland striker has had the difficult task of rebuilding his career after suffering a cardiac arrest.

It is still very early days and Latics still have to overcome the minus five point deduction, but the future is certainly looking very bright.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards, Maloney said:

“It was a brilliant result, and the performance had everything,” he smiled.

“At times in the first half, we were very good on the ball, and we didn’t take a step back and tried to play at times. 

“In the second half, they were good and came at us, and we had to suffer. I’m delighted – that’s what Charlie Wyke brings – and we saw a proper team there in the end.

“We had real heart and desire to not concede and I loved a lot of today.”

The 2,000-plus travelling Tics were incredible from start to finish, making a huge difference from the stands as Latics enjoyed a perfect start to the new season.

Maloney more than appreciated the energy levels generated by the away support and is hoping to create many more memories like today in the months to come.

“This one meant a lot and going over to the fans at the end meant a lot. It’s a start and hopefully, we’ve got a few more memories like this to make.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

 

Whoscored.com notes

Posted in Charlie Wyke, Craig Forsyth, Derby County, League One, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments