Tough times for the Tics – Wigan Athletic 1 Sunderland 4

Posted on December 30, 2022 by ianhaspinall
Will Keane

Will Keane scored his ninth goal of the season

  • Wigan Athletic slipped to the bottom of the Championship after an emphatic 4-1 home defeat to Sunderland.
  • Injury-hit Latics struggled to contain the in-form Mackems and went behind on 19 minutes when Ellis Simms headed in from close range. 
  • The visitors had several good chances to increase their lead in the first half but it was the hosts who drew level on 42 minutes when Will Keane followed up Thelo Aasgaard’s strike after it was spilled by Anthony Patterson.
  • Substitute Ross Stewart restored the visitors lead from the penalty spot on 66 minutes and substitute Patrick Roberts added a third with a deflected effort on 85 minutes.
  • Amad Diallo’s superb strike from 25-yards made if four on 89 minutes to round off a splendid night for the Black Cats.
  • Latics drop to the bottom of the Championship table and are three points from safety while Sunderland move into the play-off places in fourth spot.

Kolo Toure made three changes from their Boxing Day defeat at Middlesbrough, with captain Tendayi Darikwa and Tom Naylor returning to the starting line-up, along with Ashley Fletcher who was given his first Latics league start.

The visitors started the game confidently and pressed high from the kick off.

Latics lost another centre back, this time Charlie Hughes, to injury after a very clumsy challenge by a Sunderland forward on 17 minutes. Substitute full back Ryan Nyambe had to replace him at centre back.

Referee Michael Salisbury was doing Latics no favours and booked McClean for an innocuous foul while the dangerous foul on Hughes had gone unpunished.

Latics were thankful to keeper Jamie Jones who made a superb double save in the 19th minute. Jones did brilliantly to save Diallo’s low effort with his leg, and he recovered quickly to slide across his goal-line and parry Abdoullah Ba’s follow-up effort for a corner.

Unfortunately for Jones and Latics the visitors were ahead just a minute later through Simms after he headed Hume’s cross in at the far post.

The visitors nearly added a second when Diallo was through on goal but James McClean produced a crucial last-ditch tackle to stop the strike.

Latics showed good spirit and nearly drew level when McClean’s powerful volley from the edge of the area struck the crossbar in the 40th minute.

Almost immediately at the other end Diallo saw his his effort crash against the woodwork.

But Latics got back on level terms three minutes before the interval through the predatory striker Keane.

Aasgaard’s powerful strike from 20 yards out was spilled by keeper Patterson and Keane grabbed his ninth goal of the season firing home from close range.

Latics were somewhat lucky to go into half-time level but they started the second half strongly.

They had a good opportunity when Lang was sent in the clear down the right hand side, but he was denied by a vital last-ditch tackle by Luke O’Nien.

But despite Latics looking the better side Sunderland regained the lead in the 66th minute when substitute Stewart converted from the penalty spot, after Naylor was harshly penalised for a foul on Roberts.

The game then slipped out Latics’ reach with two late goals from Roberts and Diallo.

Substitute Roberts adding the third with a deflected effort on 85 minutes and Diallo’s superb strike from 25-yards made if four on 89 minutes.

Overview

Toure has made some positive changes to the style of play since taking over as manager but injuries to key players and defensive mistakes have put the club in a precarious position.

Few teams would manage to get results when they are missing nearly all their central defenders. Charlie Hughes injury against Sunderland was yet another damaging blow.

Unless we can get cover in very soon there is a danger that Latics could become detached at the bottom of the table.

The optimism of Latics’ early season form under Leam Richardson has now dissolved into a desperate relegation struggle.

Owners Phoenix 2021 decisions in the January transfer window are now crucial to Latics’ survival in the Championship.

It is clear from recent performances that the club needs defensive reinforcements immediately and some more quality in attacking positions if they are to avoid relegation.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards Toure felt the scoreline wasn’t a fair reflection of the game, and he couldn’t fault the players’ effort levels despite the end result.

“It was a tough result to take,” he said.

“I felt like it wasn’t a 4-1 game. The players gave everything, worked really hard and tried to put them under pressure, but Sunderland brought on quality from the bench which made the difference. 

“The response (after the Sunderland) goal was great. They kept fighting, believing in the way we want to play and were brave on the ball.

“After Sunderland scored (the second), we chased the game and looked to score. When you push forward against a team like Sunderland, you open the doors at the back, and that’s what happened at the end.

“They (the players) gave everything tonight, and I was disappointed for them that they didn’t get something from the game.”

Latics have to recover quickly as they have an important bottom of the table clash with Hull City on Monday afternoon.

Toure expressed the importance that his side swiftly changes their focus, with another huge game awaiting them in the Championship.

“We have to now think about the next game, which is very important for us. We have to give everything we’ve got, and try and win that game.”

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Posted in Amad Diallo, Championship, Ellis Simms, Kolo Toure, Patrick Roberts, Ross Stewart, Sunderland, Wigan Athletic, Will Keane | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Injury-hit Latics thumped by Boro – Middlesbrough 4 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on December 27, 2022 by ianhaspinall
Thelo Aasgaard

Thelo Aasgaard pulled a goal back for Latics

  • Wigan Athletic suffered a heavy Boxing Day defeat at in-form Middlesbrough.
  • Boro striker Chuba Akpom grabbed a hat-trick as Michael Carrick’s team continued their rise towards the top six.
  • Marcus Forss opened the scoring on 26 minutes and the hosts took complete control in the second half with Latics makeshift defence exposed by Akpom’s finishing in the 49th and 59th minute.
  • Thelo Aasgaard pulled a goal back for Latics on 61 minutes but Akpom completed his hat-trick in added time.
  • Latics remain in 23rd place and three points from safety while Middlesbrough move up to 10th in the Championship table.

Latics were without three centre-halves, Jason Kerr, Jack Whatmough and Rarmani Edwards-Green. Kolo Toure made four changes from the team which had narrowly lost to Sheffield United with Ryan Nyambe, Jordan Cousins, Thelo Aasgaard and debutant Charlie Hughes starting.

The first opportunity of the first half fell to Latics striker Nathan Broadhead. The Everton loanee found space and hit a powerful strike towards goal, but keeper Zack Steffen was able to push the ball away.

The hosts responded and Duncan Watmore’s strike from the edge of the area was well pushed over the bar by Jamie Jones.

After a good initial opening by Latics, on 26 minutes Boro went ahead through Forss. The ball was played in from the right hand side, and the striker found the bottom corner of the net.

Boro nearly extended their lead soon afterwards when a header from a corner looked destined to find the net, but Aasgaard was able to get in the way and head over the bar from a couple of yards out.

Latics then had a couple of chances to restore parity. First, Max Power and Broadhead combined before feeding Callum Lang to strike on the turn, but his effort was blocked by a Boro defender.

From the resulting corner, Hughes met James McClean’s corner at the far post, but could only divert his header over and the hosts went into the interval 1-0 ahead.

The hosts started the second half strongly and they were 2-0 up after only two minutes. Akpom finished powerfully ino the roof of the net after a cross from the left hand side.

Boro’s lead quickly became three when Akpom grabbed his second when finishing with his left foot to find the bottom left-hand corner of Latics’ net.

Latics almost immediately pulled a goal back when Power’s excellent delivery to the back post was superbly finished high into the net by Aasgaard.

The visitors tried to push forward with Lang chasing a ball down over the top. The striker beat Boro keeper, Steffen, to the ball and looped his effort towards goal, but Darragh Lenihan was on hand to clear the danger.

Graeme Shinnie replaced Broadhead on 69 minutes and Anthony Scully and Tendayi Darikwa replaced Aasgaard and Nyambe on 75 minutes. Tom Naylor and Ashley Fletcher replaced Cousins and Lang on 86 minutes.

Latics continued to push to reduce the deficit, and substitute Fletcher had a header from the centre of the goal saved by Steffen, but it was the hosts who added a fourth when Akpom completed his hat-trick in the 93rd minute.

Overview

Latics were without three recognised central defenders yesterday, Kerr, Whatmough and Edwards-Green and although Charlie Hughes is a promising young defender, he is probably not yet ready for the rigours of the Championship. 

Toure is trying to play attractive attacking football but the injuries and lack of squad depth mean they will have to dig deep to get results. The games continue to come thick and fast and Latics need to get some victories quickly. The next two home games will be tough against Sunderland and Hull City but it is important that they do pick up points and do not get detached from the teams above them.

The January transfer window is imminent and it is vital that Phoenix 2021 back Toure and strengthen the squad, bringing in more quality and utilising the loan market. It would be a disaster if Latics were relegated and allowed to slip back into League One due to a lack of investment. 

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Toure was honest with his assessment.

“It was a tough afternoon,” he said.

“I felt like we started the game quite well and put them under pressure, and I think we should have been more aggressive in front of goal.

“But then we gave a goal away on a throw in, where we aren’t organised properly, and that cost us the game as the confidence then goes down.

“Unfortunately at the moment, we only start playing when we concede, and we aren’t aggressive enough, especially defensively. 

“That’s something we need to fix and be more pro-active, like we did against Millwall.”

Latics have two home games to come in the next few days at the DW, and Toure wants his side to use these upcoming games as a way to respond and pick up points. 

“We have to analyse quickly now,” he said.

“There are some things we can take, but also some things to correct, but we have a big opportunity with two home games to make sure we get points.”

“We have to think about the next game moving forward, and we have to give everything.”

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Posted in Championship, Chuba Akpom, Kolo Toure, Marcus Forss, Middlesbrough, Thelo Aasgaard, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Toure’s first home game ends in defeat – Wigan Athletic 1 Sheffield United 2

Posted on December 20, 2022 by ianhaspinall

Nathan Broadhead on target

  • Kolo Toure lost his first home game in charge of Wigan Athletic as they succumbed to promotion chasing Sheffield United.
  • The Blades went ahead after only eight minutes when John Egan powerfully headed home Oliver Norwood’s corner.
  • Latics struggled with the Blades high press and the visitors could have added further goals in the first half but for some excellent goalkeeping from Jamie Jones and last ditch defending.
  • The visitors doubled their lead in the 56th minute when Tendayi Darikwa played a poor pass into midfield and Iliman Ndiaye supplied Billy Sharp who finished with clinical precision into the bottom corner.
  • Despite the setback Latics rallied and reduced the deficit when Nathan Broadhead tapped home from close range on 65 minutes.
  • There was some late Latics pressure for an equaliser but the Blades held on to strengthen their position for automatic promotion.
  • Latics are now in 23rd place and Sheffield United remain in second place in the Championship table.

Toure named an unchanged starting XI to the side that picked up a draw away to Millwall.

Latics created the first opportunity in just the second minute. Joe Bennett found Will Keane free in the centre and the striker fired over the Blades crossbar.

The hosts continued to push forward, and Tom Naylor saw his volley from the edge of the box well blocked by a Sheffield United defender with appeals for a handball waved away.

But it was the visitors who stunned the home crowd in the eighth minute. Sharp and Ndiaye both forced good saves from Jamie Jones in quick succession, and from Norwood’s corner, John Egan powered his header past Jones to give United the lead.

The Blades continued to press high and nearly added a second when Ndiaye found Enda Stevens, who looked certain to score until Darikwa’s last-ditch block deflected his effort wide.

Jones then had to push away James McAtee’s low drive at his near post.

Jack Whatmough had to be withdrawn due to injury and replaced by Rarmani Edmonds-Green on the half hour mark and Latics could easily have been three or four goals down by then.

But the hosts gradually started to re-assert themselves and in the 36th minute James McClean went close to an equaliser.

Nathan Broadhead found McClean in behind the Blades’ back line. He saw his first cross blocked before his attempted volley on the rebound went narrowly wide of the target.

Latics began the second half strongly but it was the visitors who doubled their lead in the 56th minute following a mistake by the hosts.

Captain Darikwa’s pass into midfield was behind Power and intercepted by Ndiaye who set up Sharp who finished clinically.

Despite the setback Latics’ players heads didn’t go down and they rallied. They were denied a penalty in the 64th minute.

Lang did well down the right and his low shot was only partially palmed away by Wes Foderingham. The ball rebounded to Thelo Aasgaard, who saw his strike hit the hand of a defender but referee Dean Whitestone waved away Latics’ appeals for a penalty.

Latics pulled a goal back a minute later when Aasgaard fed McClean, whose low cross was spilled by Foderingham, and Broadhead was able to tap home from close range.

Latics then pushed for the equaliser, and substitute Ashley Fletcher almost grabbed it in the 85th minute. Power found Fletcher stretching at the near post, but his shot was deflected just wide of the post.

Latics put the Blades under sustained pressure in the closing minutes but they were unable to make the vital breakthrough and Toure’s first home game ended in defeat.

Overview

In the first half Latics had come up against a confident in-form team whose physicality and high press caused all kinds of problems. If it was not for some excellent goalkeeping from Jamie Jones and some last ditch defending the game could’ve been over by half time.

However, Latics once again tried to play through the thirds and created several good opportunities against tough opponents.

It was a much better second half performance and on another day and with a little luck they might have been awarded a penalty and gained a creditable draw.

It’s still very early days for Toure and his coaching team but despite the defeat there was plenty for the manager to build on from the game. The team are playing good football and showing plenty of energy, but they still require some strengthening in key positions.  

It was good to see Ryan Nyambe return to the team but the injury to last season’s player of the year Jack Whatmough is a big worry after already losing Jason Kerr for the season. Substitute Rarmani Edmonds-Green did well against Sheffield United but Latics are now very thin in defensive positions. It is imperative that Latics add reinforcements in the January transfer window.

Next up another tough looking trip to Middlesbrough on Boxing Day.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Toure believes that his side’s display against the Blades in the second half will provide them with a solid platform to build from in the coming games over Christmas.

“In the first half, I thought we could’ve done better, and been braver on the ball in my opinion,” he said.

“We conceded from a set-piece, and in the second half, we then gave away the second goal. After that, we played a lot better. We were more confident, both attacking and creating chances.

“I’m really pleased with the second half, but I think we need to make sure that we start the game better.

“(We played against) a team that is in second place at the moment, and they showed their quality. I still believe we could’ve come back into the game, and that is the good thing that we can take away from tonight.

“The team pushed to come back, and the fans were fantastic. They kept pushing the team and we are going to build on that second half.” 

The manager was full of praise for how the Latics supporters backed the boys throughout the 95 minutes.

“The fans are really important for us, with how they keep pushing the team. Tonight, they were very good, and hopefully, we can have more nights like tonight (where they back us all the way), and win more games.”

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Posted in Billy Sharp, John Egan, Kolo Toure, Nathan Broadhead, Sheffield United, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Toure’s Tics make a promising start – Millwall 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on December 12, 2022 by ianhaspinall

Kolo Toure

  • Wigan Athletic secured a valuable point at play-off chasing Millwall in Kolo Toure’s first game in charge.
  • Will Keane gave Latics the lead when he slotted home on 33 minutes but the hosts drew level just before half time when Zian Flemming volleyed past Jamie Jones from the edge of the box.
  • Danny McNamara fired just over the crossbar for the hosts and Keane headed over for Latics, but in a closely fought second half neither team could break the deadlock.
  • Latics move out of the relegation zone and are in 21st place and Millwall remain in seventh place.

New manager Kolo Toure made three changes to the team which had defeated Blackpool with Joe Bennett, Will Keane, and Nathan Broadhead replacing Rarmari Edmonds-Green, Graeme Shinnie and Charlie Wyke.

In a lively opening period Latics went close in the first minute when James McClean’s dangerous cross was headed towards goal by Nathan Broadhead, but his effort was parried wide for a corner by George Long. 

The hosts soon responded and Mason Bennett’s strike was comfortably saved by Jones.

Bennett threatened again in the 13th minute, when his low effort had to be well saved by Jones.

It was end to end stuff now and Tom Bradshaw stabbed a low effort towards the bottom corner, but Jones did well to get down low and push it away.

Latics went ahead on 33 minutes through Keane’s eighth goal of the season. Broadhead broke into the area and found Keane, whose initial shot was blocked but from the rebound he calmly slotted the ball into the empty net with Long already committed.

Millwall tried to get back on level terms when Andreas Voglsammer headed his effort over the crossbar from a Bennett cross.

But with just five minutes remaining in the first period, Flemming equalised for the home side with an excellent half-volley from the edge of the box.

The hosts started the second half strongly. Flemming’s powerful free-kick was superbly tipped around the post by Jones.

They went close again soon afterwards, but fortunately for Latics Billy Mitchell’s drive was straight at Jones.

Latics continued to enjoy plenty of possession and were passing the ball to good effect. Gradually they started to take a measure of control and Keane almost put the visitors back into the lead when his header from Bennett’s cross just went over the crossbar.

Soon afterwards Keane turned provider when he set up Tom Naylor on the edge of the area, but the midfielder was denied by an excellent save from Long.

Josh Magennis replaced Broadhead on 74 minutes, and Jordan Cousins and Thelo Aasgaard replaced Naylor and Lang on 80 minutes as Toure tried to re-energise his team.

There were few real openings in the remaining minutes as Latics comfortably held out for a valuable point at the Den.

Overview

This was a pleasing performance in Toure’s first game in charge. The manager has only had a short time to work with the players but Latics had produced some good passing football and had tried to play through the thirds to achieve a good result.

Millwall is a notoriously difficult place to go and get a result but Latics had dominated possession against a team who have a very good home record and are pushing for a play-off spot. 

The team had defended resolutely and Jones had an excellent game between the sticks. They had created several good chances and Keane had got on the scoresheet once again, he is surely one of the most underrated strikers in the Championship.

Toure is the first African international player to become a manager in the Championship and he has made a good start to his career in his first game. The first signs are promising but this division is unrelenting and next up are second place Sheffield United at the DW Stadium.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Toure was pleased with his side’s performance levels throughout at the Den.

“The boys played unbelievably well, and I’m very proud of the team,” he said.

“We’ve only had one week of work with the players, and the boys implemented the game plan really well.

“I’m very proud of all of them – they worked hard defensively and offensively – did everything that we asked for.

“We had a game plan, and it was to make sure we could really stop their strength. The players implemented the plan well, and I’m very proud of the team.“

Latics were backed in numbers for the trip to South London, and Toure was quick to recognise the contribution that the supporters made from the stands. 

“I’d really like to thank the fans for their support. They came here, and really backed us (in a tough place to go.)”

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Posted in Championship, Kolo Toure, Millwall, Wigan Athletic, Will Keane, Zian Flemming | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics’ Bittersweet Symphony – Wigan Athletic 2 Blackpool 1

Posted on November 14, 2022 by ianhaspinall

Leam Richardson League One Manager of the Season 2021/22

  • It was a bittersweet afternoon at the DW Stadium as Wigan Athletic came from a goal down to defeat ten-man Blackpool.
  • Latics’ owners owners Phoenix 2021 had sacked much-loved manager Leam Richardson in midweek and assistant managers Rob Kelly and James Beattie took charge against the Seasiders.
  • The visitors were reduced to ten-men when last man Marvin Ekpiteta was dismissed for a foul on Charlie Wyke after 17 minutes.
  • The Seasiders went ahead on 34 minutes when Jack Whatmough appeared to be pushed by Gary Madine before the striker volleyed past Jamie Jones.
  • Latics dominated the second half and they drew level in the 54th minute when James McClean scored direct from a corner.
  • The hosts sealed an important three points when centre back Curtis Tilt headed Tendayi Darikwa’s cross past Chris Maxwell with two minutes of normal time remaining.
  • Latics move up a place to 22nd place and Blackpool drop to 23rd in the Championship table.

There was a strange atmosphere at the DW Stadium as Latics welcomed Blackpool without Richardson as manager.

Acting assistants Rob Kelly and James Beattie made two changes to the starting XI from the defeat at Coventry City with Tom Naylor and Graeme Shinnie replacing Jordan Cousins and Will Keane. 

The visitors had an early half chance when following a free kick Charlie Patino crossed the ball to Ekpiteta, but the Seasiders’ captain headed high over Jones’ crossbar.

At the other end Latics nearly created an opportunity when Shinnie burst into the box but a last-ditch tackle from Ekpiteta stopped him from getting a shot in.

The visitors then had a great opportunity to take the lead when Sonny Carey found Madine inside the penalty area but the striker dragged his strike wide of the post.

Soon afterwards the visitors were reduced to 10 men. A pass to Ekpiteta was intercepted by Charlie Wyke who lifted ball over the defender, before being fouled as was about to go through on goal.

Referee Andy Davies decided that Ekpiteta was the last man and gave a straight red card.  

It was something of a surprise when the visitors when ahead on 34 minutes. Blackpool launched a long ball towards Maxine who appeared to push Whatmough in the back but the referee allowed play to continue and the striker volleyed past Jones.

1-0 to the Seasiders at half-time.

Latics started the second half brightly pushing forward and utilising the extra man to good effect.

They were now passed the ball much better and ball retention was much improved as Blackpool sat back.

Latics equaliser came in an unlikely fashion in the 54th minute.

McClean’s low in swinging corner avoided everybody at the near post before finding the back of the Blackpool net.

The hosts then pushed forward for the winner and they nearly went in front from a corner when Shinnie’s volley was just inches wide of Maxwell’s near post.

But with two minutes of normal time Latics deservedly found the winner. Darikwa produced an enticing cross to the near post and Tilt did superbly to get in front of his marker and head powerfully into the Seasiders net.

The Latics fans were jubilant after their first win in eight games but it was a bittersweet moment as they had done it without Leam Richardson who had done so much to revive the club during the last two years.

Overview

This was an important result for Latics prior to the break for the World Cup.

Despite Blackpool being down to ten-men, the game was finely poised at half-time but Latics held their nerve and played some very good passing football in the second half.

The players had shown their determination and commitment to get the victory for Leam Richardson.

It had been a very poor decision by the owners Phoenix 2021 to sack Richardson.

Latics had started the season very well and although results haven’t been good recently they’ve been unlucky not to pick up more points.

There is still a long way to go in the season and a few good results could easily have propelled the club away from the relegation zone.

Following the summer recruitment it was obvious to most observers that the club needed to further strengthen the current playing staff during the upcoming transfer window.

Football club’s require good leadership, stability, and team togetherness if they are to be successful in the long term.

Sacking the manager after a few bad results will not necessarily make the club successful.

Leam is an excellent leader and if he had been given the resources I’m sure he would’ve kept the club in the Championship this season.

I hope Richardson’s sacking is not a portent of more bad news. The fans do not deserve to go through the turmoil of another period of administration.

Three late salary payments have damaged confidence and stimulated numerous conspiracy theories.

Surely it is now time for Phoenix 2021 to be open and transparent about their intentions going forward.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards acting assistant manager Rob Kelly was delighted to see his side’s patient performance pay off in the final stages.

“It was a relief for everyone to get the win,” he smiled.

“It was an important three points for everybody. I thought they responded really well (to conceding), certainly after half-time.

“The longer it went on, we knew we would get a couple of chances and that’s what happened.”

Latics were rallied on superbly by the home supporters in the second period, and Kelly praised the fans’ positive influence from the stands this afternoon.

“I’ve got to say the fans have always been fantastic since I’ve been here,” he said.

“Even at home, they’ve been patient and understanding of where we are and what we are trying to do.

“I thought they (the fans) were really good in the second half, and they have been since we have been here.”

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Posted in Blackpool, Curtis Tilt, Gary Madine, James Beattie, James McClean, Leam Richardson, Marvin Ekpiteta, Rob Kelly, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Latics slip deeper into trouble – Coventry City 2 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on November 9, 2022 by ianhaspinall

Leam Richardson with plenty to ponder

  • Wigan Athletic slipped deeper into relegation trouble after a dispiriting 2-0 defeat at Coventry City.
  • In a competitive first half there were chances at both ends as Will Keane headed against the crossbar for Latics and Kasey Palmer fired inches wide of the target for the Sky Blues.
  • But in the second half Latics offered little going forward and despite some good defending they went behind on 77 minutes when Gustavo Hamer’s deflected strike from outside the box beat Jamie Jones.
  • Latics threw men forward in six minutes of added time but it was the hosts who sealed the three points when Victor Gyokeres finished from Josh Eccles’ pass.
  • Latics remain in 23rd place in the Championship table and the Sky Blues move up to 12th place.

Leam Richardson made three changes to the starting XI from the draw at Swansea with Ramari Edmonds-Green making his debut, Callum Lang and Jordan Cousins replacing Jason Kerr, Tom Naylor and Nathan Broadhead.

In a lively opening period the Sky Blues threatened first when they fired a dangerous cross into the area in the first minute but it came to nothing.

James McClean then had a couple of early shots blocked at the other end before Will Keane headed against the crossbar on 14 minutes but was adjudged to be offside. 

Josh Eccles fired high over the crossbar for the hosts on 14 minutes.

Latics then had another opportunity on 20 minutes when a Max Power corner was headed across the area by Jack Whatmough and McClean fired just wide of the target from a tight angle.

Coventry’s best chance came just before half time when Hamer’s strike from the centre of the penalty area was inches wide of the post.

0-0 at half time with Latics putting in a competitive first half performance.

But the second half was a different story with the Sky Blues dominant as Latics offered very little going forward and had to defend for most of the half. 

The hosts pressed forward from the kick off and Latics had to defend in depth and often desperately.

Ben Sheaf fired just over the angle of post and crossbar on 50 minutes, Hamer had a goal bound strike blocked two minutes later before Michael Rose’s strike just cleared the crossbar a minute after.

Latics were under the cosh and they had to block strikes from Callum O’Hare, Jake Bidwell, Gyokeres and Palmer in quick succession.

Keane had to be withdrawn for an injury on 60 minutes and replaced by Broadhead.

Coventry made a triple substitution on 73 minutes as Jamie Allen, Tyler Walker and Callum Doyle replaced Palmer, O’Hare and Rose.

Richardson made a double substitution at the same time with Graeme Shinnie and Josh Magennis replacing Callum Lang and Charlie Wyke.

Despite concerted Coventry pressure Latics were unlucky to concede from a deflected strike on 77 minutes. Gyokeres unleashing a drive from just outside the area which deflected off Whatmough and completely wrong-footed goalkeeper Jones. 

Gwion Edwards and Thelo Aasgaard replaced Darikwa and Cousins on 82 minutes as Latics tried to respond but they created very little until in added time when they pushed men forward.

Unfortunately in that added time the Sky Blues broke away with Gyokeres showing strength and power to get away from Latics’ chasing defenders and power his strike low past Jones to confirm the three points.

Overview

Coventry are in fine form at the moment having defeated Watford and Blackburn in their previous two games but Latics were well beaten at the Coventry Building Society Stadium.

The other results around the relegation zone couldn’t have gone much worse for Latics on the night with Huddersfield winning at QPR, Hull City winning at Cardiff and Middlesbrough winning at Blackpool.

Latics have only picked up one point in the last seven games after starting the season so well. The players effort cannot be faulted in recent games and fine margins often decide results in the Championship but it is clear to everyone that they are lacking quality in certain positions. 

Latics Chairman Talal Al Hammad has commented on Twitter that the club will use the forthcoming World Cup break to ‘overcome the current obstacles.’ Let’s hope that this involves strengthening the current squad during the transfer window. Latics owner Mr Al-Jasmi must surely realise that they will now have to invest in the squad if they are to retain their hard-won Championship status.

Post match comments

Speaking afterward, Richardson felt that luck wasn’t on their side, as a deflected opening goal helped the hosts on their way to victory. 

“Any negative result is tough to take, especially when the work ethic of the lads was there for all to see,” he said.

“The first half was very competitive, with not much in it – with neither goalkeeper really having a save to make.

“In the second half, they started probably a bit brighter, and the momentum swung with a couple of decisions in their favour. 

“Our distances got too big, and they’ve had a deflected shot that goes in – which is disappointing.

“The last goal, we were chasing the game, but I thought we got into enough areas to go for the equaliser.

“It wasn’t to be, and I thought our lads’ effort and endeavours was there to see, but we just need that a little bit of quality in certain moments.”

Saturday will see Blackpool arrive at the DW Stadium in Latics’ final game before the World Cup international break, and Richardson expressed the importance of his players making the most of the energy generated by the fans to stride towards a positive result. 

“They’re all huge, massive games for us. Saturday, we’re at home, and our home crowd will give us a massive lift,” he said

“They will give us a massive amount of energy, and it’s up to us we replicate that on the pitch and certainly get a positive result.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Championship, Coventry City, Gustavo Hamer, Leam Richardson, Mr Al-Jasmi, Talal Al Hammad, Victor Gyokeres, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Latics make battling point at Swansea – Swansea City 2 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on November 6, 2022 by ianhaspinall

Tom Naylor produced a Man of the Match performance

  • Wigan Athletic battled to their first point in six games with a creditable 2-2 draw at Swansea City.
  • Latics went in front on eight minutes when Will Keane headed home James McClean’s corner and on 16 minutes Tom Naylor doubled their lead from another McClean corner.
  • The visitors contained the hosts for most of the first half but on 43 minutes Ryan Manning reduced the deficit with a superb curling strike past Jamie Jones.
  • Latics defended resolutely in the second half but they were undone late on when Jason Kerr brought down substitute Kyle Naughton in the penalty area and Joel Piroe converted the spot kick to save the Swans blushes.
  • Wigan remain in the Championship relegation zone and Swansea are in ninth place.

Swansea started brightly and Armstrong Oko-Flex had an opportunity in the fourth minute but he dragged his shot wide.

Latics soon got into their stride and after Steven Benda had pushed Nathan Broadhead’s drive around the post from the resulting corner Latics went in front. McClean’s in-swinging corner was met by Keane who headed home for his seventh goal of the season.

It was not long before Latics doubled their lead from another excellent McClean corner which was  this time headed home by Naylor at the near post.

The hosts were stunned and they struggled to find their usual rhythm and when they did get forward Latics were well organised and defended resolutely. Naylor was having a crucial role shielding the back three and winning important tackles.

It looked as though Latics would go into the half time break with a two goal lead but just before the interval Manning unleashed a curling strike from the edge of the area beyond Jones to reduce the arrears.

2-1 to Latics at the break.

The Swans created an opportunity at the start of the second half with Piroe almost immediately forcing an excellent save from Jones.

As the half progressed the hosts were dominating possession and Latics had to defend in numbers. But the visitors defended well and limited the hosts to only a few chances.

Ollie Cooper going close for the Swans when he flicked Naughton’s cross narrowly wide of the post.

Leam Richardson replaced McClean and Broadhead with Thelo Aasgaard and Callum Lang on the hour mark as he looked to give Latics some more attacking options. 

Russell Martin responded for the Swans by making a triple substitution with Matthew Sorinola, Naughton and Oliver Ntcham replacing Cundle, Cabango and Obefemi.

Josh Magennis replaced the hard working Wyke on 72 minutes.

It looked as though Latics might weather the storm but on 80 minutes Jason Kerr collided with Naughton and referee Craig Pawson awarded a penalty.  Piroe converted the spot kick and Swansea were level.

Graeme Shinnie and Joe Bennett replaced Kerr and Naylor on 85 minutes, and Latics had an opportunity to restore their lead in seven minutes of added time but Bennett’s free kick was saved by Benda.

Overall a very creditable away point for Latics at the Swansea.com Stadium but it could so easily have been three.

Overview

There’s been a lot of unfair criticism of Leam Richardson on social media this week and the manager and team showed their character and determination to prove the doubters wrong against Swansea.

The doomsayers have been quick to suggest the manager is not up to the job, but Richardson’s team had been unlucky not to pick up at least three points from the previous three games.

The team spirit and togetherness of the players and manager was evident throughout in South Wales. In the first half Latics had counter attacked effectively and scored two excellent headers from well worked set pieces.

In the second half they had to defend resolutely against a team who are pushing for the play-offs and had won five of their last six games at home.

It was frustrating to see Latics concede an equaliser late on but most supporters would’ve taken a point prior to the game after the recent run of bad results.

Richardson is currently working with a League One squad and a few new signings and loan players. If he is given the resources to strengthen in the January transfer window, a few strategic signings should help to establish the club in the Championship.

Richardson has done a remarkable job in such a short space of time, saving the club from relegation during administration and gaining promotion and the League One title in his first full season.

He does not become a bad manager just because of a few bad results. He certainly deserves a better backing from some of our fan base.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards Latics manager said that it was another point gained after a performance full of grit, determination and character.

“We know the relentlessness of the Championship and the challenges that we face,” he said

“It can either be two points dropped or one point gained, and I always look at the positives. 

“Factually, our performances haven’t really reflected results but that’s the division we are in. It’s important that every time we enter the pitch, we’re positive and full of energy, as well as being respectful of the opposition.

“It probably deserved to be a draw. We had to defend at times in the second half, but we knew that before the game. 

“Can we be better in certain moments? Of course, we can. We’re still evolving and trying to be better in those moments.

“(I felt) the endeavour and commitment could not be questioned, and I don’t think they could’ve given any more.

“We’re moving forward at a great rate, going up against the likes of QPR, Watford, Stoke City and Watford every three days with a squad that has come from League One who are relishing the challenge. 

“If we can keep making those positive steps with the help of the owners, we’ll be in a better place tomorrow and the next day.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Championship, Joel Piroe, Leam Richardson, Ryan Manning, Swansea City, Tom Naylor, Wigan Athletic, Will Keane | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Toothless ‘Tics – Wigan Athletic 0 Stoke City 1

Posted on November 3, 2022 by ianhaspinall
Leam Richardson

Leam Richardson with plenty to ponder
Copyright remains property of Bernard Platt

  • Wigan Athletic slipped into the relegation zone after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Stoke City at the DW Stadium.
  • In a first half of limited chances Latics had a great opportunity to open the scoring in the 38th minute but Will Keane headed over from close range.
  • In the second half Josh Tymon seized upon a defensive mistake to fire the visitors ahead on 62 minutes.
  • Latics were unlucky to have a goal ruled out in added time but they have now lost five consecutive league games.
  • Latics drop to 22nd place in the Championship table and the Potters move up to 17th place.

Leam Richardson made one change from Saturday’s defeat against Watford, with Tom Naylor replacing the suspended Graeme Shinnie.

The first opportunity of the game fell to the visitors but Tymon’s long range effort was wide of Jamie Jones’ goal.

Latics responded and Max Power’s low drive clipped the outside of the near post with the Potters keeper Joe Bursik struggling to get across to it.

Latics had another good opportunity in the 20th minute. James McClean’s corner found Jack Whatmough free at the back post, but the defender’s powerful header cleared the crossbar.

The visitors then had a chance when Jacob Brown broke free of Latics’ defence and tried to find Dwight Gayle in the box, but Brown miscued his pass and Jason Kerr was able to intercept and clear the danger.

The Potters continued to push Latics back into defence and Gayle saw his headed effort go wide of the target in the 32nd minute. 

The hosts then had a glorious opportunity to make the breakthrough when Tendayi Darikwa did brilliantly to create space and deliver a pin-point cross to the far post. Keane looked odds-on to score but he couldn’t keep his header down and his effort went over the crossbar.  

Latics started the second half brightly and Jordan Cousins almost immediately went close to opening the scoring. The former Stoke midfielder found space 25 yards out and unleashed a curling strike which looked destined for the top corner but it was narrowly wide.

The visitors then forced an excellent save from Jones in the 53rd minute. A cross into the box caused a goalmouth scramble before falling to Brown. After creating space, the striker fired towards goal, and Jones did superbly to deflect the shot wide with his leg.  

But Stoke were ahead in the 62nd minute when Latics defence over committed. Three defenders went forward to challenge Tymon but none were able to get in a tackle and he ran through into the penalty area before driving the ball low past Jones.

The Potters nearly doubled their lead in the 88th minute. Substitute Tariqe Fosu broke into the box before finding Harry Clarke whose strike was deflected wide by Jones.

Latics then looked to have a lifeline in the 90th minute. A corner into the far post found substitute Josh Magennis and after a scramble, Naylor turned the ball into the net, but his finish was ruled out for handball in the build-up.

Despite late pressure from Latics, Stoke held firm, and the hosts suffered another frustrating narrow defeat.

Overview

Latics had once again lost out by a narrow margin. They could easily have taken three draws from the last three games against QPR, Watford and Stoke but unfortunately it was not to be.

They cannot afford to continually make mistakes at this level and once again a defensive error allowed Stoke to take all three points.

At the other end Latics are not creating enough chances but even when they do they are not being clinical in front of goal.

Callum Lang is being sorely missed but the other strikers must step up and contribute more goals.

Graeme Shinnie was also badly missed against Stoke, as Latics lacked any real creativity from midfield. At least he will be available for the trip to Swansea on Saturday.

Latics now have three more games before the World Cup and it is important that they try to pick up some points and stop the rot before the break.

These same players started the season strongly and they are capable of getting positive results again.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards Richardson was disappointed that his side couldn’t capitalise on their key chances, and fell to defeat.

“It was a tough result,” he said. 

“On the back of the last few performances, you want to give a high level of performance again. 

“I didn’t think there was much in the game, to be honest – it looked like two teams who had not won enough games of late, and that it was going to end in a draw.

“It was waiting for that moment of brilliance, and we had a big chance before they scored. For the first time all night when we became lopsided within our shape, they ran through the gap and scored their goal. It was disappointing.”

Wednesday’s narrow loss meant that Latics are still going through a tough period following their return to the Second Tier, and Richardson emphasised that it is his responsibility to now help them come through the other side of this period.

“It’s their (players) first rocky spell as a group, and we are used to winning and progressing. We had eight bad weekends all of last year, and this year, it looks like we will have more than that.

“It’s easy being there high-fiving everyone, lifting trophies, and getting all the accolades, but it’s my job to be there when people need you the most.

“It’s my job when people need leading – players and staff within the Football Club – and we have to progress. It’s a fantastic league, coming up against some fantastic players and football clubs, and a lot of our lads are learning on the job.

“They are doing very well in large parts, but it’s just those moments that we’ve got to be better at.”

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

 

Posted in Championship, Josh Tymon, Leam Richardson, Stoke City, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Review: The Silence of the Stands – Finding Joy in Football’s Lost Season by Daniel Gray

Posted on November 1, 2022 by ianhaspinall

Daniel Gray already has a collection of critically acclaimed football books, but this is another gem worthy of your attention. ‘The Silence of the Stands’ is partly football during lockdown, part travelogue, part social and economic history of Northern England and Scotland.

Gray’s travels provide a snapshot of our national game during Covid, the period from September 2020 to May 2021. He once again enthralls with his football centred lyrical prose. ‘Football was available again, but it had become hard to track down, a kind of prohibition pursuit where football grounds were speakeasies and Bovril was our Moonshine.’

This was a strange period when mental health was crucial to everyone and football fans needed their football fix, wherever they could find it. ‘The very act of going to a game matters tremendously. It matters to your routine, identity, and equilibrium, and it matters to the routine, identity, and equilibrium of so many thousands of others.’

Gray finds solace in non-league grounds such as Jarrow, Lancaster and Workington in England and Scottish teams such as Cowdenbeath and Raith due to the ban on professional sport during lockdown.

He superbly captures the sights and sounds of a match. Relishing the contenting sounds of football, ‘…the cattle stampede of studs on a hard pitch; the ball tumbling into the side-netting and making a whippy, threshing sea-shanty of a noise; an avuncular voice asking his friend, “Do you want a tea or Bovril at half-time?’’ These sensations and satisfactions are like popping bubble wrap for us followers of football.’

Gray is not only insightful but also humorous and entertaining. During his travels he overhears snippets on the train, in the towns and at the grounds. ‘Eeee, it must be bad if they’re calling off Northern League games,’ a Geordie friend had said to me. ‘They’d play through a nuclear holocaust that lot.’

We also learn about Kendal Town (the Mintcakes) and Lancaster City’s (The Dolly Blues) fantastic nicknames and that Billingham Synthonia’s name is a poetic portmanteau. The attraction of football is hard to avoid, ‘We are weaker than coins near magnets (near a football ground).’

He rightly identifies why football is so special to so many of us. ‘Never had we been more aware of the fact that going to the match was about so much more than going to the match.’

Gray is an endearing and authentic football observer, and this book reaffirms the meaning and importance of football in so many ways.

The Silence of the Stands – Finding Joy in Football’s Lost Season by Daniel Gray. Published by Bloomsbury Sport. Price £12.99.

This review first appeared in the November 2022 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in Daniel Gray, Football Book Reviews, Football's Lost Season, Late Tackle magazine, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

Latics suffer late heartache – Wigan Athletic 0 Watford 1

Posted on October 31, 2022 by ianhaspinall

Jack Whatmough headed against the crossbar

  • Wigan Athletic looked to be heading for well-earned point until Watford’s Joao Pedro headed an 87th minute winner at the DW Stadium.
  • Latics had matched the Hornets in a hard-fought fixture with few chances for either side. 
  • The hosts hit the post from Will Keane’s header and Jamie Jones made an excellent save from Watford’s Ismaila Sarr but with the match heading for a draw Pedro rose highest to head home.
  • Although Jack Whatmough headed against the crossbar in added time Latics couldn’t rescue the draw that their performance had deserved.
  • Latics drop to 20th place in the Championship and Watford moved up to seventh place.

Leam Richardson made one change from last Saturday’s defeat against Queens Park Rangers, with Jones returning to the starting XI, in place of Ben Amos.

Latics started well and created an opportunity in the fifth minute. Will Keane tried his luck from 25 yards out and his powerful strike was well saved by Watford keeper Daniel Bachmann.

Soon afterwards the hosts had a great opportunity to take the lead when James McClean’s free kick from the right-hand side found Keane at the back post and his header from close range hit the outside of the post.

Watford gradually started to assert themselves and striker Vakoun Bayo nearly headed them ahead in the 16th minute. The visitors Dan Gosling crossed the ball towards Bayo, but he could only head the chance over Jones’ crossbar.

The Hornets continued to threaten and Jones made an excellent save in the 21st minute. Sarr combined well with Bayo and Jones who reacted instinctively with his legs to deflect the shot wide.

Latics then had a good spell and and they had a half-chance in the 35th minute. McClean’s ball into the box was picked up by Keane who did superbly to bring the ball down control but before he could pull the trigger Bachmann was quick off his line to snuff out the opportunity.

Keane went close again just four minutes later when McClean’s corner was headed down by Whatmough but under pressure, the striker just couldn’t keep the ball down and the chance went begging.

In the second half both teams continued to battle for dominance with Latics giving a good account of themselves.

In the 70th minute Bachmann nearly gave Latics the lead when he opted to palm Keane’s cross away instead of catching it. The ball looked like it would fall into the path of McClean, but Leicester City loanee Hamza Choudhury did well to close down the danger.

The visitors continued to be a threat on the break and they nearly went ahead in the 80th minute when Samuel Kalu burst down the right and crossed for Sarr in the six-yard box, but Whatmough did superbly to make a last-ditch block and save an almost certain goal.

Latics looked like they would hold on for a precious point but their hopes were dashed in the 87th minute. Yaser Asprilla’s cross into the far post was met by Joao Pedro who headed into the top corner to devastate the hosts.

In seven minutes of added time Latics pressed for the equaliser and they nearly managed a deserved draw when Whatmough’s looping header hit the crossbar but Watford survived the scare to take away the three points.

Overview

It is easy to get carried away and criticise the team and manager after another defeat but Richardson’s team have performed well in the last two games against two of the top teams in the Championship.

The club have come a long way since administration and consolidation in the Championship was always going to be the target for this season.

Latics deserved a draw against the League leaders QPR last week and it was agonising to lose out late on against a strong Watford team who will be pushing for a return to the Premier League.

Latics were balanced and organised and for the most part negated the threat of Watford’s expensively assembled forward line. They had some chances themselves but they had lacked a cutting edge with strikers Charlie Wyke and Callum Lang both absent due to injury and Watford loanee Ashley Fletcher unavailable. 

Despite playing well in the last two games they are on a bad run and have now lost four in a row. It is not a time to panic but Richardson must find a way to get a positive result to address the slump before it becomes a crisis.

Post match comments

Richardson speaking afterwards said,

“It was very frustrating.”

“The question I ask myself – when the emotion is still very raw after the game – could the lads have given any more?

“We were up against a (former) international, Premier League manager with Premier League players, and the difference is in both boxes. In the last couple of weeks, we’ve played against the team top of the league and Watford today, and in the main, we’ve gone toe-to-toe.

“Our lads have given us everything that we’ve asked for, but then with all due respect, the moments are decided in both boxes.

“You’d like the performances to turn into results, and that’s something we will look forward to challenging ourselves to do.

“We have to get results and keep working hard within this group of players. They are really relishing the challenge and meeting it head-on.

“We have to take those (key) moments, and take the game away from other teams.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Championship, Jack Whatmough, Joao Pedro, Leam Richardson, Watford, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment