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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overview

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

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

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

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

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

Post match comments 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“The standards rose with each other. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Player ratings

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

Review – Injury Time: Football in a State of Emergency by David Goldblatt. 

Posted on October 14, 2025 by ianhaspinall

Acclaimed football historian David Goldblatt’s new book is a wide-ranging examination of contemporary society through the lens of football.

‘Injury Time’ explores Brexit, Covid and the current ‘polycrisis’ (climate change, economic instability, and political conflict) through the prism of football and posits the game as the most illuminating guide to the state of the nation today.

Goldblatt’s belief is that current world problems have their own football equivalent, be it the rise of inequality in the professional game, the poor state of grassroots finances and pitches, the disaster capitalism of the European Super League, or the rise and fall of Russian club ownership; or indeed the steady rise in the number of football pitches and matches lost to extreme weather.

Football has seeped into our public debates, from Marcus Rashford’s campaign against child hunger, to the reactions to Gary Lineker’s tweet about the Tory Government’s anti-migrant rhetoric. Football has become the ultimate bellwether for British society.

Goldblatt argues that racist abuse around football and in society in general have both been on the increase. He believes the combination of xenophobia, nativism and rage conjured up during the Brexit referendum and the victory of the Leave campaign has translated into the normalisation of acts of hatred.

It is hard to overstate the role football now plays in modern culture. He makes the case that football has now overtaken Coronation Street and all the other soap operas as the country’s primary soap opera.

Football has become the last bastion of must-see appointment television. For example, England’s defeat to Italy in the final of Euro 2020 was watched by 31 million on TV and 11 million online, making it the most viewed event in British television history.

He observes that football is now increasingly controlled by two distinct factions: American finance houses, and nation states – Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The Club World Cup typifies the depressing state in which football finds itself. A tournament designed to benefit only a handful of teams, in an already packed calendar, bankrolled (indirectly) by Saudi money.

Goldblatt concludes his analysis of football’s problems by examining the sport’s refusal to confront the climate crisis and make the changes required.

His assessment of the state of football’s soul and Britain’s in general is a bleak one. He believes the game is unable to rid itself of racism, hooked on get-rich-quick schemes and willing to sell anything and everything for the right price to the wrong buyer.

It’s hard to argue with the strong case he makes that football is indeed in a crisis of its own making.

Injury Time – Football in a State of Emergency by David Goldblatt. Published by Mudlark. Price: £22.

This review first appeared in the November /December 2025 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in David Goldblatt, Football Book Reviews, Late Tackle magazine, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Toothless Tics left to rue missed chances – Wigan Athletic 0 Wycombe Wanderers 1

Posted on October 12, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Ryan Lowe Head Coach Wigan Athletic

Ryan Lowe looking for answers

  • Wigan Athletic’s inability to finish proved costly as they slipped to a 1-0 defeat to Wycombe Wanderers at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • In a scrappy first half of few chances the Chairboys went ahead on 35 minutes from a quick counter attack, involving Ewan Henderson and Fred Onyedinma before Sam Bell finished.
  • The hosts failed to hit the target in the first half with Paul Mullin heading wide and Christian Saydee firing wide.
  • In the second half Latics dominated possession but they were unable to capitalise on their opportunities with substitute Dara Costelloe heading narrowly wide and then forcing a crucial save from Will Norris.
  • Latics drop to 17th and the Chairboys rise to 19th place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made one change to his starting line-up from the draw with Plymouth last Saturday with Paul Mullin replacing Jensen Weir.

Latics had a couple of early half chances, first Saydee dragged an effort wide after being set-up by Murray, and then Mullin headed Steven Sessegnon’s cross wide of the target from a good position.

The hosts were enjoying plenty of possession without creating many chances and they fell behind on 35 minutes.

Following a quick counter attack, Bell finished Onyedinma’s low cross from the right to break the deadlock. 

Latics huffed and puffed but couldn’t breakdown a well drilled Chairboys rearguard.

Lowe made three changes at half-time to give his team more impetus. Callum Wright, Joe Hungbo, and Costelloe replacing Robinson, Raphael and Mullin.

The visitors threatened first as Tickle had to react quickly to deny Onyedinma’s near post strike.

At the other end Latics went close when Will Aimson found Hungbo down the left, and Costelloe was inches away from diverting his low cross into the net.

Costelloe had a good chance to equalise with just four minutes remaining. A clever flick from Murray fed Saydee, whose cross was glanced agonisingly wide of the target by Costelloe.

In added time Latics had their best chance to equalise but Costelloe was denied by an outstanding save from Norris and the visitors came away with the three points.

Port Vale at home next Saturday and Latics desperately need to get back to winning ways or the natives will become extremely restless.

Overview

This was another frustrating home performance which sees Latics slip further down the table.

Despite strong performances by Matt Smith and Fraser Murray the team are struggling to create many chances and when they do they lack a clinical finish.

Saydee, Mullin and Costelloe have only scored seven goals between them and they have not scored in five league and cup games. Only Murray with five goals has been able to score on a regular basis. 

Referee Andrew Humphries didn’t help Latics’ cause. He allowed Wycombe to constantly waste time and slow the game down. He seemed incapable of penalising the visitors gamesmanship and failed to add the correct amount of additional time in both the first and second half.

But ultimately Latics players and manager only have themselves to blame for not getting anything out of the game.

Lowe’s formation of 3-5-2 hasn’t been working and the manager seems unwilling to change. His comments after the game demonstrate that he is frustrated with his team but his tactics are surely part of the problem. 

Lowe may well have to adjust his wing back formation and play a back four as his team continues to look extremely vulnerable down the flanks.

Post match comments 

Afterwards Ryan Lowe said he was disappointed with his team.

“We’ve been done from a counter attack which is disappointing,” he told the media.

“It’s disappointing because we can stop the counter attack at the source. We tried to slide at the top end of the pitch to get the ball to one of our players, and Wycombe ran 80/90 yards to score.

“I am disappointed in that because people weren’t doing their jobs. It comes down to me as Head Coach. We’ve just had a discussion as staff that we have to keep going, and the players need to keep going as well. 

“For 20 minutes, we were excellent. We had three glorious chances and couldn’t put the ball into the back of the net. 

“It goes back to the saying that both boxes win you games. I wasn’t happy with the first half, which is why I made the changes.

“I can’t do it for the players, and neither can the coaching staff. They need to take some responsibility, and the standards need to be upped.

“You can’t become a team that is happy to lose or happy to concede when we are trying to please our fans. It’s not good enough, and we’ve got to make changes.

“The message to the players is change quickly or be changed. It’s as simple as that. 

“We’ve got a week to build up for the next one, and we’ve got to keep going.“

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in League One, Ryan Lowe, Sam Bell, Wigan Athletic, wycombe wanderers | Tagged , , , , | 5 Comments

Latics stop the rot against the Pilgrims – Plymouth Argyle 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on October 5, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Fraser Murray equalised for Latics
  • Wigan Athletic halted their recent run of poor form with a 1-1 draw at Plymouth Argyle.
  • In a first half of few chances Lorent Tolaj went closest for the hosts when he crashed a strike against the crossbar.
  • In the second half Latics threatened when Christian Saydee rolled his man before forcing Conor Hazard into a save low down to his right. 
  • Argyle controversially went ahead in the 70th minute. Will Aimson was alleged to have committed a foul from a corner, and Tolaj converted the penalty.
  • Latics equalised on 82 minutes when Fraser Murray produced a powerful finish at the near post and the points were shared.
  • Latics are now in 14th and Plymouth in 15th place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made five changes to Latics lineup from their defeat against Cardiff City last weekend. 

Steven Sessegnon and Luke Robinson replaced Morgan Fox and Joe Hungbo in the backline, while Jensen Weir and Ollie Cooper started in midfield in place of Ryan Trevitt and Callum Wright who was ineligible as a loanee from Plymouth. The final change saw Raphael Borges Rodrigues come in for Paul Mullin.

Latics started positively with a Matt Smith effort going just wide of Conor Hazard’s post.

Argyle responded and they went close twice through Tolaj, first crashing an effort against the woodwork and then firing just wide.

Later in the first half Tolaj saw a curling free-kick clear the crossbar in a first 45 of few chances.

0-0 at half time with neither team gaining the upper hand.

Latics threatened on 61 minutes when a Smith ball found Saydee inside the area, and the striker rolled his man before forcing Hazard into a save low down to his right. 

Plymouth controversially went ahead when they were awarded a penalty in the 70th minute. Will Aimson was alleged to have committed a foul from an Argyle corner, and Tolaj converted the spot-kick.

Latics responded well to the setback and were level on 82 minutes after some neat interplay. Raphael and Saydee linked up brilliantly to play in Murray, who produced powerful finish at the near post.

The visitors were now in the ascendancy and they pushed hard for the winner. Murray curled a free-kick wide of the post, while Weir saw a low drive pushed away by Hazard.

In a tense final few minutes both teams looked for a final cutting edge but the points had to be shared.

This was an important first point for Latics since the 13th September and they will hope to continue their improvement against Wycombe Wanderers next weekend.

Overview

Latics were desperate to stop the rot after three recent defeats and manager Ryan Lowe wanted his team to put in a good performance against one of his former clubs.

A draw was probably a fair result at Home Park but Latics can certainly feel aggrieved by the penalty decision by referee Ben Atkinson. 

Having watched the incident back several times it’s hard to see why the referee gave a spot kick. 

Both teams may feel frustrated by the decisions of Mr. Atkinson but he is by no means unique in is ineptitude.

The standard of refereeing in League One continues to frustrate and although most people don’t want VAR in League One something must be done sooner rather than later to address the problem.

Fraser Murray continues to be Latics’ most dangerous attacker with a clinical finish for his fifth goal of the season. His impact since joining Latics from Kilmarnock has been nothing less than impressive.

Lowe is likely to play his Academy players against Wolves U21s in the Vertu Trophy on Tuesday night, but his main priority will be home games against Wycombe and Port Vale. A six point haul could re-establish Latics in the top half of the table.

Post match comments 

Afterwards Ryan Lowe told the media,

“I thought the lads were excellent.”

“They stuck to the game plan both with and without the ball.

“We knew it was going to be tough coming here after they won away from home and scored four goals last weekend.

“We needed to stop the period where we hadn’t won a game, and I thought we were unfortunate not to go on and win the game.

“We had some good chances. There were a few decisions I wasn’t happy about, but I can’t do much about them.

“To go a goal behind again and show that fighting spirit to go again and get the equaliser for our fans was pleasing.

“That was for the fans – it was a tough week after the week of losing three games. 

“We had a fantastic week in training, and the lads performed to the levels that are expected of them. 

“Fair play to the lads who came in because we had a couple of injuries and a suspension. We were well worthy of a point, and on another day, it might have been three.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Fraser Murray, Lorent Tolaj, Plymouth Argyle, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics form collapses as they suffer a third defeat in a week – Wigan Athletic 0 Cardiff City 2

Posted on September 28, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Ryan Lowe Wigan Athletic manager
Ryan Lowe with plenty to contemplate
  • Wigan Athletic suffered their third defeat in a week when they were defeated 2-0 by Cardiff City at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • The visitors started strongly and they were ahead on 17 minutes when Rubin Colwill set-up Perry Ng who beat Sam Tickle with the help of a deflection at the near post.
  • Latics might’ve drawn level on 38 minutes but the Bluebirds goalkeeper Nathan Trott produced point-blank save to deny Christian Saydee.
  • In the second half the visitors continued to dominate possession but the hosts went close again when Jason Kerr’s header was tipped over and Trott denied substitute Dara Costelloe.
  • The Bluebirds sealed all three points in added time when Morgan Fox brought down Yousef Salech in the box and was red carded before Salech converted the penalty.
  • Latics drop to 14th place and Cardiff move up to fourth in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made three changes from last Saturday’s league defeat at Bolton.

Captain Jason Kerr, midfielder Callum Wright and forward Christian Saydee returned to the starting line-up.

The first visitors started strongly and the first chance came when a dangerous ball into the box had Sam Tickle venturing off his line to save.

Saydee did well on the break and found Paul Mullin down the left flank. The Wrexham loanee produced a low cross into the box, but both Saydee and Callum Wright couldn’t get on the end of the cross.

At the other end Tickle did well to punch away Ryan Wintle’s deflected strike.

The Bluebirds went ahead after 17 minutes with Ng’s close-range near post effort finding the net via a deflection.

Towards the end of the first half Latics did start to threaten and on 38 minutes Saydee had a golden opportunity to equalise. The former Portsmouth striker was denied at point-blank range by Trott.

Joe Hungbo then played Fraser Murray into space, and he crossed for Mullin who headed just over the crossbar.

The visitors continued to dominate possession in the second half but it wasn’t until the hour mark that Tickle was forced into a save from Ng.

Lowe was forced to make two changes, with Mullin and Ryan Trevitt making way for Ollie Cooper and Costelloe due to injuries.

Latics briefly threatened when Kerr’s header from a corner was tipped over the crossbar by Trott.

Costelloe almost got the equaliser from the subsequent corner, but the chance lacked enough power to beat Trott.

The visitors sealed all three points in added time when Morgan Fox brought down Yousef Salech in the box – and was red carded – and Salech converted the penalty.

Latics travel to Plymouth next Saturday and will need a big improvement if they are to get anything from the game.

Overview

Lowe’s men have now lost three games in a week and lost their unbeaten home record.

They had been outplayed by a Cardiff team who moved the ball quickly, dominated possession and generally controlled the game.

In contrast Latics were unable keep much meaningful possession and they struggled to pass the ball effectively.

Lowe’s substitutions were unable to make an impact and the team were unable pose much of an attacking threat in the latter stages.

Cardiff manager Brian Barry-Murphy had got his tactics spot on.

The visitors tactics of starting with five up top had penned Latics back into defence. The hosts wingbacks just couldn’t get forward and pose an attacking threat.

Unfortunately Lowe seems unable to come up with a Plan B when their opponents have worked out the vulnerabilities of Latics’ formation.

It’s a worrying situation going forward. A good manager should be able to adjust his tactics and formation when required. Sticking rigidly to the 3-5-2 may ultimately be Lowe’s undoing.

Post match comments

Afterwards Lowe spoke to the media,  

“I am disappointed that we haven’t come out of the game with anything,” he said.

“It’s been a tough week for me, the players, staff, and the fans.

“I thought the lads tried, but they couldn’t get near a good team in certain elements. They were too quick and fast for us, and moved the ball a lot better than we did.

“We felt that the game would be won on transitions. I’ll have to watch the first goal back, but we haven’t got out to the ball quickly enough, and it’s a strike across bodies that’s ricocheted in.

“We changed a few things at half-time, and I thought we were a little bit better. We had a couple of corners and opportunities, but the last goal probably summed us up. 

“There was one point where our fans really got behind us, and we were pressing and getting in their faces, which we should’ve done more. We changed shape to allow us to have more attackers on the field and have a good go, but it meant we were wide open. 

“The lads will debrief the game tomorrow – I have got them all in at nine o’clock and will tell us what they feel went wrong. It’s on them because we give them the game plan, and they’ve got to be able to take it into fruition.

“When they do, they’re a good team and have won games of football. At the moment, there are a couple of players not doing what I am asking them to do.

“We weren’t good enough today, and we’ve got to make sure we are better in training next week.

“I don’t want to get too high in expectation, but I want to make sure the Brick is a fortress and we don’t lose many games like we have done today. That’s one – we just have to make sure it doesn’t happen too often. 

“It’s my job to pick the players and staff up because they’ll be down, and we’re going to have to keep working on the training pitch.

“We’re in a not-good spell at the moment, so that’s up to me and the staff to make sure we get back into a good spell as quickly as we can.” 

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Cardiff City, Perry Ng, Ryan Lowe, Yousef Salech | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

Latics ten year domination at Bolton comes to an end – Bolton Wanderers 4 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on September 21, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Dark day at the Toughsheet Stadium
  • Wigan Athletic’s ten year domination at Bolton Wanderers came to an end with a very disappointing 4-1 defeat at the Toughsheet Stadium.
  • The Trotters last home league victory over Latics was in January 2015 and they had lost the last three by a 10-0 aggregate.
  • But on this occasion Latics were not at the races and they were outplayed by Bolton who were 3-0 up at half time.
  • Thierry Gale put Wanderers ahead after 15 minutes and then provided an assist for Marcus Forss just five minutes later.
  • Latics were in complete disarray and Mason Burstow made it 3-0 with a superb low strike after 42 minutes.
  • Ryan Lowe made three changes at the break and Latics started better but a disastrous back header by Morgan Fox set up Forss for his second goal and Bolton’s fourth.
  • Paul Mullin produced a fine finish for Latics on 54 minutes, but they were unable to reduce the arrears further after a very below par performance.
  • Latics drop to 12th and Bolton move up to tenth in the League One table.

Lowe made one change from the victory against Doncaster with Baba Adeeko replacing Callum Wright in the starting line-up.

Latics started the Derby with a succession of early corners but Sam Tickle soon had to come to Latics rescue when he denied Gale.

Tickle had to be on his toes again in the 11th minute, racing out to close down the oncoming Amario Cozier-Duberry and winning a goal kick.

But Latics were looking vulnerable and the Trotters were ahead in the 15th minute

The visitors were caught down the right flank and Josh Dacres-Cogley crossed for Gale to finish from inside the box.

The hosts made it two inside 20 minutes as Latics were this time exposed down the left flank as Gale crossed for the unmarked Forss to finish from ten-yards out.

Latics were under the cosh and Tickle did well with strikes from Gale and Cozier-Duberry from the edge of the box but Wanderers added a third three minutes before the break when Burstow produced a superb strike from 20-yards into the bottom right corner.

The visitors started the second half on the front foot with Fraser Murray lifting the ball over a defender and seeing his strike blocked, before Hungbo tested Teddy Sharman-Lowe with a volley.

But just when it looked like Latics might get back into the game Fox disastrously back headed the ball into the path of Forss who finished with ease.

Mullin produced a fine curled finish from 18-yards on 54 minutes, but it was little consolation for Latics as their ten year domination in Bolton came to an end.

Overview

Latics were strangely out of sorts for this Derby Day clash. It was a very un-Latics like performance against their local rivals. 

They were missing their captain Jason Kerr but those who played did not give a good account of themselves.

Lowe’s preferred formation with three at the back and wingbacks was cruelly exposed by Wanderers wingers. The Latics manager reverted to a back four in the second half but it was too late to save the game.

Lowe’s men were hesitant from the kick off and Tickle had to make early saves before Gale put the Wanderers ahead.

Acting captain Will Aimson had a particularly bad day and Fox gifted Wanderers their fourth goal.

Worryingly if it was not for the heroics of Tickle it could’ve been a five or six goal defeat. Only Tickle and Mullin emerged with much credit on a dispiriting afternoon.

Lowe may well have to adjust his wing back formation and play a back four against some of the stronger teams in the division if they are not suffer as they did at Bolton.

The manager will also be expecting a massive improvement for this week’s Carabao Cup game against Wycombe and Saturday’s League One encounter against Cardiff City.

Post match comments

Speaking post-game, Lowe gave an honest assessment and apologised to the 3,483 travelling supporters and explained how his focus is on ensuring that his side bounces back. 

“We’ll assess it tomorrow, but what I will say is the goals are definitely avoidable,” he told the media.

“To start the way we did and concede those goals and be 3-0 down, we had to then make changes and change shape. The fourth goal just summed it up – it was a calamity, and that’s not what we’re about.  

“It’s tough on the fans and players, but we cannot dwell on it too much. We’ll have an opportunity to hopefully put this right in a few months time when we play them (Bolton) again, which is the only bit I can take from that game.

“For us, we’ve now got to go again. The performance from each and every player wasn’t good enough. 

“We don’t get gifted opportunities in the way we gifted opportunities to them. I have just addressed it with the lads, asked them their questions, and they gave me their answers, which is good. 

“They know they weren’t up to the levels, but it’s one game. It’s one we can’t do again, and we need to make sure next time that we are better. 

“To dwell on it would be cynical from our side. My job is to pick the lads up, and go again. 

“I always apologise – it’s on me. I am the Head Coach, and I am big enough and brave enough to do that. I apologise on behalf of everyone at the Football Club, in terms of the players, especially. They (the fans) were there in their numbers today, and we want to send them home happy in derby games like that. “I’ll always apologise to the fans when I think the performance is nowhere near what I like and what they like.

“Thanks for your support – it’s been excellent and we want that to continue. We will find a formula to get us points away from home.

“It’s disappointing – I apologise on behalf of the players and staff – but we can’t dwell on it too much. We’ve got to go again.” 

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Aaron Pressley, Bolton Wanderers, League One, Marcus Forss, Mason Burstow, Paul Mullin | Tagged , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

Top drawer Tics – Wigan Athletic 3 Doncaster Rovers 0

Posted on September 14, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Fraser Murray scored his fourth goal of the season
  • Wigan Athletic produced an impressive performance to defeat high-flying Doncaster Rovers 3-0 at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics went ahead after only 11 minutes when Dara Costelloe bundled the ball home from close range following Joe Hungbo’s cross.
  • They doubled their lead on 14 minutes when Matt Smith produced a classy finish from 12-yards.
  • Early in the second half the three points were effectively sealed for the free-flowing Latics when Fraser Murray curled home a superb strike into the bottom corner from 20-yards.
  • Billy Sharp went close for the visitors with a near post header before Costelloe had a one-on-one with goalkeeper Timothee Lo-Tutala but it remained at 3-0.
  • Latics move up to eighth place and Doncaster drop to fifth place in the League One table.

Manager Ryan Lowe made two changes from last Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Lincoln City, with Steven Sessegnon and Dara Costelloe replacing Jason Kerr and the suspended Christian Saydee in the starting line-up. 

Latics were quick out of the blocks and put Rovers under pressure from the kick off. 

Latics were ahead after only 11 minutes, Hungbo crossed from the right-hand side, and the ball evaded goalkeeper Thimothêe Lo-Tutala, and Costelloe bundled the ball home at the back post for his first goal for the club

The hosts doubled their lead just three minutes later when Smith produced a classy finish.

Smith controlled Lo-Tutala’s punch following a Murray delivery, before showing great composure to dummy the advancing Matthew Pearson, and precisely place his shot into the bottom corner from 12-yards.

Smith went close soon afterwards when he hit a wonderful volley towards the top corner but this time he was denied by a strong Lo-Tutala save.

At the other end Doncaster tried to get back in the game and acting captain Will Aimson had to be at his best to block a Billy Sharp strike from inside the penalty area. 

Luke Molyneux managed to get in a shot through the legs of Hungbo but Sam Tickle did enough to push it wide. 

Latics almost added a third when Morgan Fox met Murray’s left-sided corner, and Lo-Tutala had to tip the header over the crossbar. 

Doncaster briefly threatened at the start of the second half when Billy Sharp connected with a corner, glancing his header wide of the target.

Soon afterwards Latics were three goals ahead and effectively sealed the three points.

Murray cut inside and curled a superb strike into the bottom corner for his fourth goal of the season.

Costelloe then had a one-on-one with Lo-Tutala but he was unable to capitalise on the opportunity.

The visitors again briefly threatened when Molyneux’s dangerous cross appeared to be going in, but a combination of the woodwork and Sessegnon kept the ball out.

Doncaster made several substitutions to try to change their fortunes but Latics stayed in control and comfortably saw out rest of the game.

Lowe’s men had produced an emphatic display which should give them confidence ahead of next weekend’s trip to face their local rivals in Horwich.

Overview

This was top drawer stuff from the Tics. Right from the kick off they took the game to Doncaster who have been in fine form and had only lost one game previously. 

There were a couple of classy finishes from Matt Smith and Fraser Murray but this was a great team performance overall.

Steven Sessegnon slotted into defence for the absent Jason Kerr and produced an accomplished display.

Paul Mullin and Dara Costelloe leading the line in the absence of Christian Saydee worked their socks off and proved a handful for the visitors.

Matt Smith was particularly influential in midfield and he showed top quality with his goal.

Latics now have quality in depth following their summer recruitment. They are no longer relying on untried loan players and players from the Academy who aren’t ready for first team football. 

The addition of reserve goalkeeper Toby Savin, Raphael Borges Rodrigues and Ollie Cooper late in the transfer window have also added that extra bit of competition for a first team place.

All in all a very promising display by Lowe’s men which augurs well for the rest of the season.

But the next two league fixtures away at Bolton and at home to Cardiff will provide an even better indicator as to how much Latics have progressed.

Post match comments 

Speaking post-match, Ryan Lowe felt the performance was full of positives and is one that they can build on heading into Derby Day next weekend. 

“I’m over the moon,” he told the media.

“I thought they were excellent and did everything that we asked them to do. We were well worthy of the three-nil.

“Dara (Costelloe) could’ve made it four, and we had some unbelievable crosses going into the box that we need to get on the end of.

“I can’t complain. Three goals, a clean sheet, and a good Saturday afternoon.

“Every performance is complete when you win, but we will take bits from it where we can do a little bit better.

“Good teams can hurt you, and I thought we turned the ball over a bit. I don’t want that – I want us to keep the ball for large parts, and play in the areas where we feel we can play. 

“I’ll always critique a little bit – to keep the lads on their toes and make sure they’re not getting carried away. They’re grounded lads, but they have to stay on each other now.

“There are places up for grabs – the skipper (Jason Kerr) missed today with a niggle on his knee, so it was important we made sure we were right (at the back). 

“I always want to strive for real quality and completeness – but I was happy with it and it’s a big three points.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Dara Costelloe, Doncaster Rovers, Fraser Murray, League One, Matt Smith, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Latics’ progress thwarted by a less than competent referee – Lincoln City 2 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on September 7, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Latics on the attack at Lincoln City

Latics on the attack at Lincoln

  • Wigan Athletic and Lincoln City drew 2-2 at the LNER stadium in a game marred by poor refereeing from Alan Young.
  • Latics started brightly and were ahead after only nine minutes when Paul Mullin scored from a brilliant assist by goalkeeper Sam Tickle.
  • The visitors were dominating but against the run of play The Imps drew level from a penalty after Christian Saydee was adjudged to have fouled Ryley Towler and James Collins converted the spot kick.
  • Three minutes later and the hosts were in front as Collins flicked Towler’s downwards header past Tickle.
  • Latics were back level five minutes after half-time. Saydee did well on the edge of the box before chipping the ball for Callum Wright to head home from close range.
  • The visitors were now in the ascendancy but they were stunned on 68 minutes when they lost Saydee to a harsh red card after a challenge on Tom Bayliss.
  • Lincoln’s Rob Street picked up a second yellow card for a high boot on substitute Baba Adeeko in the 77th minute.
  • In the frenetic final minutes both teams had chances to win the game. Substitute Dara Costelloe hit the crossbar, before at the other end, Will Aimson cleared an Adam Reach effort off the line and the points had to be shared.
  • Latics are now in 14th place and The Imps are in eighth place in the League One table.

Manager Ryan Lowe made a couple of changes from the draw with Stockport with Matt Smith replacing Tyrese Francois and Paul Mullin replacing Dara Costelloe.

All three of Latics’ Deadline Day signings – Toby Savin, Ollie Cooper and Raphael Bogues Rodrigues were on the bench.

Latics were quick out of the blocks and they put pressure on the hosts right from the kick off.

A brilliant quick clearance by Tickle set up Mullin on nine minutes. The Wrexham-loanee showed good composure and took the ball around keeper George Wickens, before slotting home.

Soon afterwards Mullin charged down a clearance in The Imps box but keeper Wickens made a big save to deny him.

Saydee went close to doubling the lead minutes later, getting on the end of Morgan Fox’s long ball, but he was unable to hit the target.

The visitors continued to dominate and forced a series of corners. 

But against the run of play The Imps were fortunate to draw level from a penalty after Saydee was adjudged to have fouled Towler and Collins converted the spot kick.

Three minutes later and the hosts were in front as Collins flicked Towler’s downwards header past Tickle.

Wright scored his first for Latics five minutes after half-time. Saydee did well on the edge of the box before chipping the ball for Wright to head home from close range.

Referee Young continued to frustrate Latics. Just when they were in the ascendancy they were stunned on 68 minutes when they lost Saydee to a harsh red card after a challenge on former Latic Bayliss.

Both teams were down to ten men when the hosts Rob Street picked up a second yellow card for a high boot on substitute Adeeko in the 77th minute.

In the frenetic final minutes both teams had chances to win the game. Substitute Costelloe hit the crossbar, before at the other end, Aimson cleared a Lincoln effort off the line and the points had to be shared.

Overview

This was a very good performance by Latics and it could so easily have been three points if the referee had in any way been competent.

Young’s decision to award a penalty against Saydee for a 50/50 struggle in the box was extremely harsh given similar struggles are happening in the box during set piece situations.

Saydee’s red card was also controversial as there was little intent to endanger Bayliss and a yellow card should have sufficed.

His decision to dismiss Rob Street for Lincoln was also harsh as it was accidental but having dismissed Saydee he probably thought he’d level up the teams. 

Referee Young has a history with Latics and his previous debacle was at Stevenage in 2023 when he sent off Callum Lang and Alex MacDonald and booked 12 players.

Young is a truly awful referee who spoiled the game at Lincoln. If the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) was a well managed organisation he would be removed from the referees list due to his incompetence. 

Post match comments 

Afterwards Ryan Lowe told the media,

“I thought we had a great start, and scored a fantastic goal.”

“Sam (Tickle) caught it then we were away, and Mulls (Paul Mullin) goes down the other end, shows a bit of quality and scores.

“The penalty swung it when we were well on top. I was disappointed with the other goal for two reasons – one because a man ran off the back of our player, and then it was a push on Christian Saydee to head it down.

“The lads got to grips with it and scored a fantastic goal to get back into it. It got a bit messy towards the end with the red card.

“Both teams were trying to win it at the end. They were throwing everything at us with long balls and seconds, but I thought we were by far the better team playing football. 

“I am disappointed we’ve not come away with all three points, but really pleased and proud of the boys for getting back into the game.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Alan Young, Callum Wright, James Collins, League One, Lincoln City, Paul Mullin, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

Latics show some quality in a game of two halves – Wigan Athletic 1 Stockport County 1

Posted on August 31, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Matt Smith made a big impact
  • Wigan Athletic and Stockport County drew 1-1 in a closely contested encounter at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • County started the game strongly but they were lucky to go ahead on four minutes when Jayden Fevrier’s shot took a big deflection off Morgan Fox and evaded Sam Tickle.
  • County were in the ascendancy but Latics held firm and they gradually started to assert themselves as the half progressed.
  • Manager Ryan Lowe made a change at half-time with Matt Smith replacing Tyrese Francois and it was Smith who was to dominate the second half for the hosts.
  • Smith pulled the strings in midfield as Latics created numerous chances.
  • Morgan Fox hit the crossbar with a free-kick and Will Aimson, Fraser Murray, Callum Wright and Joe Hungbo all had good opportunities to draw Latics level before Christian Saydee equalised from close range from Fox’s cross on 78 minutes.
  • The hosts pressed hard for a late winner with substitute Paul Mullin firing wide from a good position but the visitors survived and the points had to be shared.
  • Latics are now in 13th place and County are eighth in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe selected the same starting XI that had drawn at Rotherham United last Saturday.

The visitors started strongly and they somewhat fortunately went ahead on four minutes when Fevrier’s shot was deflected off Fox and past Tickle.

Costelloe and Wright had early half chances to respond but County were the team in the ascendancy.

Hungbo produced some decent crosses into the box but Latics were unable to capitalise.

Saydee fired an effort high and wide but County continued to force Latics back into defence.

Lowe made a change at half-time with Matt Smith replacing Francois and the Tics started the half on the front foot with Smith pulling the strings in midfield.

The hosts went close to equalising when good interplay between Murray and Saydee allowed Will Aimson to burst into the box but the centre back lacked composure and he blazed his shot wide of the target.

Lowe’s men continued to press forward and former Latic Callum Connolly gave away a free-kick on the edge of the box. From the resulting dead-ball Fox produced a superb dipping free-kick which rattled the crossbar.

Smith continued to prompt and push Latics forward and the hosts deservedly drew level on 78 minutes.

The excellent Fox dribbled into space on the left flank before swinging an inviting cross into the box where Saydee rammed it home for his second goal of the season.

Substitute Mullin almost put Tics in front one minute later, sliding into the final third to meet Murray’s cross, but the ball went wide of the target.

In the final minutes Hungbo met a Saydee cross on the volley, only for Brad Hills to clear the ball off his own goalline.

Despite further Latics pressure they just couldn’t capitalise on their second half dominance and the points had to be shared.

Latics will now face Salford City in the Vertu Trophy on Tuesday night before travelling to Lincoln City on Saturday in a League One fixture.

Overview

Latics produced a good performance against last season’s Play-Off Semi Finalists.

County had been quick out of the blocks but they had been a little lucky with their goal from a big deflection.

Latics showed they can compete against the top teams this season and when Matt Smith joined proceedings in the second half they took control of the game and deservedly equalised.

Smith was absent for most of last season and it was great to see him back and energised. He seemed more inclined to play forward than under Shaun Maloney’s reign and much more combative on this showing. Promising signs for the rest of the season.

Morgan Fox should also be congratulated on an excellent defensive display but he also went close with a free-kick and provided the assist for Saydee’s equaliser.

Latics created numerous chances and with a bit more composure in front of goal they could’ve gone on to win the game.

I expect County to be amongst the front runners in League One this season so this was a creditable result by Latics nevertheless.

With the transfer deadline imminent it will be interesting to see if Lowe can further enhance the team and add more quality to what has been an already improved squad.

A replacement for the injured on-loan defender Isaac Mabaya who has returned to Liverpool would be beneficial but I’m sure the manager will also be pursuing several other options as well.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards Lowe thought his side performed excellently in the second half and could have clinched all three points on another day. 

“I thought we should’ve won,” he told the media.

“We gave a silly goal away in the first half, which isn’t like us. The goals we’ve conceded this season are ricochets, bad passes or deflections – it comes from a throw, and the next thing, they are on the attack.

“It took us a while to get into the game. We were moving the ball side-to-side, and didn’t play enough forward passes. 

“The fans saw that as well – they want us to punch passes forward. There are loads of things we can look at – but we didn’t do that in the first half.

“We got to grips with it in the second half, and showed them what they needed to do. I thought we had Stockport on the rocks and were pushing to try and win it.

“Stockport have quality players and were trying to hurt us on the counter, but I thought there were two good teams out there. They’re the level – that’s where they’ve been, and we’ve matched them for large parts.

“I’m disappointed that we haven’t won, but I was pleased to have come back for a goal behind.

“We are learning on a daily basis – we haven’t had enough time to coach the players. There’s loads of stuff we want to coach them, but we have to be mindful of the games coming thick and fast. 

“They’ll get a little bit of rest now – but we’ll keep working with them. That’s the level and standard coming up against a team we’re in the Play-Offs last season – going toe-to-toe with them, and should’ve gone on to win it, is a good sign for me.

“The fans know – they see and sense it. When they are getting right behind the team and singing their songs, it’s much needed.

“You don’t realise how much it helps – not just me, I get a buzz out of it, and I know the players get the buzz of it.

“A big thank you again for rallying us through. We’re going to need that if we are going to be successful.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Christian Saydee, Jayden Fevrier, League One, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Tics take a point in an end-to-end game at Rotherham – Rotherham United 2 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on August 23, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Paul Mullin Wigan Athletic

Paul Mullin grabbed a late equaliser

  • Wigan Athletic and Rotherham United drew 2-2 in an end-to-end and physical game at the New York Stadium. 
  • Latics had the better of the first half, and after Joe Hungbo had a couple of half chances, they went ahead just before half time when Ryan Trevitt’s shot was deflected into his own net by Sean Raggett.
  • The Millers started well in the second half and they equalised on the hour mark when substitute Shaun McWilliams drilled home from the edge of the box.
  • The hosts were in the ascendancy and went in front in the 80th minute when Reece James cut the ball back to debutant Martin Sherif who finished well from close range.
  • But Latics were not to be outdone and substitute Paul Mullin headed home fellow substitute Asamoah Junior’s flicked near post header from Fraser Murray’s corner on 88 minutes.
  • In added time Mullin had a great chance to seal the three points but he fired against Cameron Dawson’s legs and Morgan Fox might have won it for the visitors with a dipping effort, at the other end Sherif lifted the ball over the crossbar from eight yards out.
  • Latics move up to 12th and the Millers are in 17th place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made five changes to his starting line-up from the midweek defeat to Luton Town with Fraser Murray, Joe Hungbo, Tyrese Francois, Christian Saydee and Dara Costelloe all returning.

Rotherham made a good start and and created some early pressure but Latics defended well.

The visitors soon got into their stride and Hungbo had a half chance at the back post from Murray’s dangerous cross on eight minutes.

Murray created another opportunity soon afterwards when his searching cross found Hungbo inside the six-yard box but the wing-back couldn’t make a firm contact and the chance went begging.

The hosts responded and a Jordan Hugill header forced a good save low down from Sam Tickle on 18 minutes.

In a physical game with many borderline decisions Referee Oliver Langford wasn’t doing Latics many favours. The Millers Liam Kelly should have received a red card for an over the ball challenge on Francois but the referee only issued a yellow.

Latics went ahead just before half-time when the excellent Murray played an incisive through ball to Trevitt whose shot was deflected into his own net by Raggett.

The visitors were deservedly ahead at the interval but the Millers started the second half strongly. Substitute Jensen Weir replaced the influential Trevitt on 52 minutes due to an injury.

Rotherham’s half-time substitutes Shaun McWilliams and Kion Etete were causing Latics problems and it was McWilliams who equalised on the hour mark when he followed up Etete’s blocked shot and lashed past Tickle from the edge of the box.

The hosts were boosted by the equaliser and they exerted more pressure which led to them taking the lead on 80 minutes. James got down the left hand side and his low cross was turned home by the Everton loanee Sherif from close range.

Lowe made changes and substitutes Mullin, Asamoah Junior and Steven Sessegnon replaced Saydee, Aimson and perhaps surprisingly substitute Weir on 84 minutes.

The visitors were soon level when Mullin headed home Asamoah Junior’s flicked header at the near post from Murray’s corner on 88 minutes.

In eight minutes of added time Mullin had a great opportunity to grab all three points when he broke clear from Asamoah Junior’s superb through ball, but the on-loan Wrexham striker could only drive the ball against keeper Dawson’s legs.

Fox then went close when he curled a dipping effort from the edge of the box which forced Dawson to scramble back and to tip over the crossbar.

In the last minute of added time Sherif had a half chance when Raggett headed the ball to him in the box but the striker lifted the ball over the crossbar and the points had to be shared.

Overview

Lowe’s men had been the better side in the first half and deservedly went ahead from Trevitt’s deflected effort but they had faded badly at the start of the second half. Admittedly Rotherham had upped their game and the substitutes had made an impact but Latics currently have a tendency to fade in the second half.

Last Saturday against Peterborough the visitors had dominated possession and Latics had conceded numerous corners in the second half. Latics had got away with it last week but this time Rotherham made them pay and if it was not for the late substitutions they might have lost the game.

Manager Lowe will rightly be worried about the team’s ball retention. The players seem to tire a little in the second half and mistakes creep into their play. It’s still early days in the season and transfer window is still open for additions to the squad, but it is something that will need addressing if they are to make progress.

On the positive side Man of the Match Fraser Murray was once again excellent. His crosses and set pieces cause all kinds of problems for defences but Latics’ forwards should be doing much better in converting the chances he creates.

Post match comments

Afterwards Ryan Lowe expressed the importance of leaving the New York Stadium with a point, although he naturally wanted all three on the afternoon. 

“I am disappointed that we didn’t take all three points,” he told the media.

“We have to give Rotherham credit, but we knew what they were doing. They made changes at half-time, and went longer, and more aggressively.

“We didn’t want to get into a fight, but we did get into a fight for 35 minutes, and that’s not our game.

“The first half, we were well capable of winning the game. 

“Two halves are never the same, but to show the reaction was pleasing. The subs coming on the pitch were fantastic, and got us a result. 

“At one point, we never had a result, so I’m really pleased with that. I am pleased with large parts of the game, but there were certain elements I wasn’t happy with.

“Losing Ryan Trevitt was a big blow for us, as he was dictating play, dragging players around, and finding little gaps. 

“We adapted towards the end, and the lads went on, showed what they can do, and we find ourselves coming away with a point.

“If you can’t win the game, you certainly don’t lose it. We came here expecting to get three points – that was our aim – but we’ve come away with a point.

“It’ll turn out to be a good point – and we’ve now got to back that up with a win, and that’ll certainly be the aim.”

Player ratings

Player ratings Rotherham away

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in League One, Martin Sherif, Paul Mullin, Rotherham United, Ryan Lowe, Ryan Trevitt, Sean Raggett, Shaun McWilliams, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment