Let's Hang On

Review: Luka Modric My Autobiography

Posted on October 29, 2020 by ianhaspinall

From humble beginnings Luka Modric has achieved incredible things during his football career winning more than 15 trophies with Real Madrid, a FIFA World Cup finalist, Golden Ball winner, UEFA Men’s Player of the Year, FIFA Best Men’s Player and Ballon d’Or Winner.

His autobiography written in conjunction with journalist Robert Matteoni and translated from Croatian recounts his remarkable story from his early life in war-torn Yugoslavia and through his many football achievements to his appearance in the 2018 World Cup Final.

Modric is undoubtedly one of the best midfielders of the last 20 years, alongside such stars as Xavi, Iniesta and Scholes, and was voted the best player of the 2018 World Cup.

The diminutive Modric, (he is only 5ft 7in) had to fight to be accepted as a professional footballer during his youth. His genuine love for the game and perseverance and dedication to succeed enabled him to reach the highest level of the game.

It is a phenomenal career and Modric’s story is an engrossing one. Although sometimes the story can lack real verve, this may be because the story is being retold via Robert Matteoni and also translated from Croatian. The retelling can also be a little mechanical at times with the prose efficient rather than exciting.

Modric has to contend with major setbacks such as the murder of his Grandfather during the Croatian War of Independence, the health issues of his wife Vanja and the court case after his transfer from Dinamo Zagreb to Tottenham. Modric was charged with perjury after his testimony in executive director Zdravko Mamic’s corruption trial. The charge was ultimately rejected, but during the trial Modric received death threats and was the most hated person in Croatia.

Despite these major setbacks Modric’s personal grit and determination to succeed shines throughout the book. Prior to the World Cup Final Modric believed his career had reached a peak.

“This is where my career and my story as a footballer reaches its conclusion. I’ve won everything with Real. I’m playing with Croatia in the FIFA World Cup Final. No matter how it ends, I feel I have accomplished what I hoped for.”

However, although Croatia lose the final against France, Modric’s career reaches new heights when he wins the player of the tournament and goes on to win that year’s Ballon D’Or.

Modric’s autobiography provides an illuminating insight into the career of one of the greatest players in the modern game. A player who dreamt of becoming a professional footballer but reached incredible heights way beyond his wildest imagination.

Luka Modric My Autobiography. Published by Bloomsbury. Price £18.99.

This review first appeared in the October/November 2020 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in Book Reviews, Late Tackle magazine, Wigan Athletic, World Cup | Tagged Book Reviews, Late Tackle magazine, Luka Modric | 2 Comments

Tough times for Latics – MK Dons 2 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on October 27, 2020 by ianhaspinall

Injury-hit Wigan Athletic suffered a dispiriting 2-0 defeat at Milton Keynes Dons tonight.

Latics who are still in administration and awaiting a takeover by a Spanish consortium were without four key players and lost striker Will Keane to injury after only eight minutes.

The hosts had a relatively easy victory against the disjointed visitors and should have been ahead before half time but Scott Fraser wasted a couple of great chances.

Early in the second half MK Dons were awarded a penalty when Tom James made a rash challenge in the box and Fraser stepped up to convert the spot kick.

It was not long before the hosts added a second on 52 minutes when Stephen Walker fired home as the visitors defence failed to clear their lines on several occasions.

Latics makeshift team produced some promising moves in the latter stages but they were unable to reduce the deficit and MK Dons ran out comfortable winners.

Latics drop down to 19th in the League One table while MK Dons climb to 17th spot.

John Sheridan faced severe selection problems as the already depleted squad lost Kal Naismith, Lee Evans, Darnell Johnson and Viv Solomon-Otabor from the team which had drawn with Plymouth.

Dan Gardner, Chris Merrie, Adam Long and Will Keane came into a 3-5-2 formation.

The hosts posed the first threat when experienced striker Cameron Jerome headed wide of the target from Dean Lewington’s cross.

Latics then suffered another injury when Keane pulled up with a groin problem and was replaced by Olly Crankshaw.

It was a poor opening as neither team came into the game with much confidence following recent poor results.

But gradually the hosts appeared to realise that they were up against a weakened team who were struggling for any cohesion.

MK Dons enjoyed plenty of possession and should’ve been in front on 22 minutes when the Latics defence was sliced wide open but Fraser’s shot was well saved at the near post by Jamie Jones.

Six minutes later Fraser had another great chance and once again Jones came to the rescue turning the ball around the post when the striker looked odds on to score.

Walker then fired over the crossbar from the edge of the box as the visitors retreated further into their defence. Wing-backs Gavin Massey and Tom Pearce just couldn’t get forward as the pressure mounted.

Latics were lucky to be level at half time but catastrophe struck on 47 minutes when James rashly challenged Matthew Sorinola in the box and referee Charles Breakspear awarded a penalty which Fraser converted.

It was not long before the hosts doubled their lead as Latics’ defenders failed to clear their lines on several occasions and when the ball came to Walker in the area he made no mistake with a low drive.

It now appeared to be a case of damage limitation for Latics but Curtis Tilt went close with a header from Matty Palmer’s corner on 55 minutes as the visitors rallied a little.

Massey and Tilt appeared to be withdrawn due to injuries as Latics problems worsened and were replaced by Thelo Aasgaard and Alex Perry.

Substitute Joe Mason curled a shot narrowly wide on 69 minutes as the hosts nearly added to their lead.

Latics youthful substitutes started to pass the ball better as the hosts sat on their lead and they created a couple of chances themselves.

Crankshaw’s cross from the right was spilled by keeper Andrew Fisher but Joe Garner couldn’t quite capitalise on the mistake.

Latics had a good opportunity to test the MK Dons keeper on 89 minutes from a free kick on the edge of the box, but James blazed his shot so wide it went for a throw-in, which just about summed up Latics’ dreadful evening.

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in League One, MK Dons, Scott Fraser, Stephen Walker, Wigan Athletic | Tagged Jamie Jones, League One, MK Dons, Scott Fraser, Stephen Walker, Wigan Athletic | Leave a comment

Stalemate after a game of two halves – Wigan Athletic 1 Plymouth Argyle 1

Posted on October 24, 2020 by ianhaspinall

It was a game of two halves as Wigan Athletic ground out a first league point in four games against Plymouth Argyle at the DW Stadium.

Latics produced a dreadful first half display as Argyle looked to have taken control. The visitors went ahead after 34 minutes when some shambolic defending allowed Ryan Hardie to chip the ball over Jamie Jones.

Latics were all at sea in the opening 45 minutes and could have been further behind if it wasn’t for some poor finishing by the visitors.

But Latics were a transformed team after the half time break and deservedly drew level when Kal Naismith’s chipped cross was headed home at the near post by substitute Will Keane on 69 minutes.

Both teams had chances to secure all three points in normal time and eight minutes of added time but a draw was probably a fair result in the end.

Latics move out of the bottom four and up to 18th in the League One table while Plymouth are in ninth place.

John Sheridan shuffled his pack after recent poor performances with Tom Pearce returning at left-back and Tom James moving across to right back. Will Keane dropped to the bench and Kal Naismith and Gavin Massey moved into more forward positions.

In very wet and windy conditions Latics lost winger Viv Solomon-Otabor to injury in the first minute and immediately had to reshuffle their formation with Keane coming on to replace him.

The hosts never settled in the opening half and looked disjointed and unable to get a foothold in the game. They moved the ball far too slowly and the visitors were easily able to break up any attacks.

Curtis Tilt blocked a goal bound shot on 25 minutes and Jones saved a 25-yard srike by Nottingham Forest loanee Tyrese Fornah soon afterwards as the visitors threatened to go ahead.

Jephcott then had a glorious chance to put Argyle in front but he headed wide of the target from a great position.

The visitors were ahead on 34 minutes when some shambolic Latics defending presented Argyle with the lead. Jones pass out to Pearce was too hard and in an attempt to control the ball he knocked into the path of Hardie who calmly chipped the ball over Jones and into the net.

Garner briefly threatened at the end of the half with an overhead kick which went narrowly wide, but Latics had produced a desperate first half display which was full of mistakes and lacking in any cohesion.

The hosts were lucky to go into the break only 1-0 down and Sheridan will have had some harsh words for the players during the interval.

Substitute Adam Long replaced the injured Darnell Johnson in Latics’ defence for the second half.

Latics seemed a transformed team for the second half and they started to move the ball much quicker and press higher up the pitch.

Soon after the restart they controversially had a goal disallowed. Naismith’s cross was headed back into the box by Garner for Lee Evans to finish but the linesman flagged and after a long consultation between the officials the goal was chalked off.

But Latics were not to be undone and they continued to press forward. James fired over the crossbar after Garner had set him up on 61 minutes and an excellent cross by Massey just evaded Garner on the edge of the six-yard box a minute later.

Latics were level on 69 minutes after a flowing move. Naismith produced a delicate chipped cross to the near post and Keane made no mistake heading his first goal for the club.

The hosts now looked the better team and most likely to get the winner as they pressed high and created chances.

But as the half wore on the game opened up with both sides creating more opportunities. Substitute Frank Nouble had a shot well blocked on 74 minutes and Long made an excellent defensive block to deny Danny Mayor on 77 minutes.

Naismith’s free-kick nearly fell into the path of Garner on 87 minutes and soon afterwards the Latics captain miscued his shot after good work by Keane had set him up.

Eight minutes of added time following the disallowed goal consultation and an injury to Curtis Tilt.

Long came to the rescue again on 93 minutes when he blocked another shot from Nouble who was through on goal.

The hosts were living dangerously as the visitors forced a succession of corners, but they might have won it in the 88th minute when on the break Garner played the ball to Evans in the box and he couldn’t quite get his shot away and the game ended in a draw.

A real game of two halves with Argyle dominant in the first half and Latics the better team in the second. Latics’ first half performance just wasn’t acceptable and they were lucky the game wasn’t out of sight by then.

Sheridan will be pleased with the players reaction in the second half. When Latics move the ball quicker and press high they look capable of matching any team in the division. The players must now ensure that they now maintain that high standard and if they can, they are capable of moving up the table.

Posted in League One, Plymouth Argyle, Ryan Hardie, Wigan Athletic, Will Keane | Tagged League One, Plymouth Argyle, Ryan Hardie, Wigan Athletic, Will Keane | Leave a comment

Latics slip into relegation zone after another narrow defeat – Wigan Athletic 0 Peterborough United 1

Posted on October 20, 2020 by ianhaspinall

Wigan Athletic slipped into the League One relegation zone after a narrow 1-0 defeat against promotion chasing Peterborough United.

Tricky winger Siriki Dembele was a constant threat for the visitors who should have been ahead on 13 minutes when Dembele pulled the ball back for Joe Ward but the midfielder fired narrowly wide from a good position.

Posh went in front on 27 minutes when Dan Butler’s deep cross found the unmarked Jonson Clarke-Harris who had time to chest the ball down before volleying past Jamie Jones.

Latics had the better of the second half but despite enjoying more possession they lacked a cutting edge. Kal Naismith going closest for the hosts in the 91st minute when his cross shot hit the outside of the post.

Latics drop down to 21st place in the League One table while Peterborough maintain fourth place.

John Sheridan made one change to the team defeated at Charlton on Saturday with Matty Palmer making his debut in place of the injured Dan Gardner. Tom Pearce was still unavailable due to injury.

Peterborough made a confident start but it was Latics who threatened first when Naismith had his shot well saved by Christy Pym after three minutes.

Posh should have been ahead after 13 minutes when Dembele cleverly evaded Gavin Massey before setting up Ward but the midfielder fired narrowly wide when he looked odds on to score.

But the visitors were ahead on 27 minutes when Clarke-Harris was allowed far too much room in the box and the striker chested the ball down before confidently volleying home.

Latics forced a succession of corners as the half wore on but the delivery was invariably poor and failed to cause the visitors many problems.

Winger Viv Solomon-Otabor was well marked out of the game by Nathan Thompson as the hosts struggled to create meaningful chances.

Reece Brown fired wide from the edge of the box on the stroke of half time as Posh ended the first half on top.

Latics improved a little in the second half enjoying more possession and occasionally threatening but the visitors always looked dangerous on the break and at set pieces.

Lee Evans went close for Latics when his snapshot forced an excellent save from Pym low down to his left on 67 minutes.

Latics strikers were generally relying on scraps rather than creating clear goalscoring opportunities. Will Keane was replaced by Chris Merrie on 59 minutes and Joe Garner was replaced by Ollie Crankshaw on 80 minutes after both strikers had a thankless night.

Latics did nearly snatch an equaliser in added time when Naismith’s cross shot from the edge of the box hit the outside of the post, but overall they came up short against a good Peterborough team who look like they will be amongst the promotion contenders at the end of the season.

Sheridan’s team are very much a work in progress, having been assembled under difficult circumstances and should be given time to develop.

There are some promising combinations in defence and in midfield with Evans and Naismith but there was a lack of cutting edge in the final third and the manager will be concerned at the lack goals in the last three games.

Posted in Kal Naismith, League One, Peterborough United, Wigan Athletic | Tagged Jonson Clarke-Harris, Kal Naismith, League One, Peterborough United, Wigan Athletic | Leave a comment

Frustrating afternoon at the Valley for Latics – Charlton Athletic 1 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on October 17, 2020 by ianhaspinall

John Sheridan had a frustrating afternoon

Referee Ollie Yates was the centre of attention as Latics were narrowly defeated by Charlton Athletic in a hard fought fixture at the Valley.

Yates’s decision-making was erratic throughout, disallowing a Latics goal and twice denying penalty appeals when Will Keane and later Lee Evans appeared to be fouled in the box.

Despite the visitors best efforts the hosts secured the three points on 65 minutes when Jake Forster-Caskey’s expertly executed free-kick went in off the inside of the post.

Latics slip down to 18th in the League One table while the Addicks move above them to 15th spot.

Manager John Sheridan made several changes to the team which had been so convincingly defeated at Crewe with captain Joe Garner returning from injury. Dan Garner came into midfield and new signing Curtis Tilt made his debut in defence.

Tom Pearce was unavailable due to injury and Tom James moved over to left back and Gavin Massey moving to right full back, with Kal Naismith moving into the right midfield slot in a 4-4-2 formation.

Charlton had Latics FA Cup winning hero Ben Watson in the starting line-up and former striker Omar Bogle on the bench.

After an even opening period Charlton had the first chance on ten minutes when Jamie Jones made an excellent reaction save at his near post to deny Forster-Caskey.

Forster-Caskey went close again on 18 minutes when his free-kick from 25-yards out clipped the top of Jones’ crossbar.

Latics first real chance came on 22 minutes when Evans’ corner found Darnell Johnson on the edge of the six-yard box and the Leicester City loanee headed powerfully towards goal only for Ben-Amos to make an excellent save.

Almost immediately afterwards Garner had a great opportunity to give Latics the lead but he volleyed wide from eight yards out after good work by Viv Solomon-Otabor on the left.

At the other end Chuks Aneke forced an important save from Jones after he turned quickly past Johnson and looked odds on to score until the Latics keeper intervened turning the ball around the post for a corner.

As the match moved towards half time Latics were struggling to clear their lines as Charlton upped the pressure. The visitors were also giving away far too many free-kicks and corners. Forster-Caskey wasting an opportunity when his free-kick from 25 -yards sailed high over the crossbar.

0-0 at half time but some ominous signs for Latics as the hosts sought to take control.

Early in the second half Latics had a strong appeal for a penalty when Ryan Inniss looked to have fouled Keane in the area but referee Yates dismissed Latics’ appeals.

Seconds later Keane was involved in a disallowed goal for Latics as he challenged Akin Famewo and pulled the ball back for Garner to fire home but referee Yates once again ruled against the visitors.

On 65 minutes Latics conceded yet another free-kick around the penalty area and this time Forster-Caskey executed his free-kick perfectly as the ball went in via inside of Jones left-hand post.

Latics were feeling that the decisions were going against them and Massey was booked for dissent after he was penalised for a foul and yet another decision had gone in the the hosts favour.

The visitors were feeling aggrieved but they were building some momentum on the pitch and Solomon-Otabor’s low drive was spilled by Amos but Naismith couldn’t quite capitalise as the keeper recovered at his near post.

Latics looked like they had drawn level on 83 minutes when Garner’s cross wasn’t dealt with by Amos, Naismith teed Evans up to shoot and the Welshman’s shot crashed against the woodwork, but Latics players were furious that a penalty was not given as Evans was fouled as he went to shoot.

Despite the plethora of decisions going against them Latics continued to press for the equaliser right up until the 97th minute when Solomon-Otabor had his shot well saved by Amos.

It was a difficult afternoon for Latics as all the big decisions went against them. On another day they would have got at least a point from what was a very even game.

It was a much improved performance after the disappointing display against Crewe with debututant Curtis Tilt having a solid game in defence and Will Keane looking more comfortable upfront.

Tactically Sheridan’s decision to play Massey at right full back and Naismith wide on the right of midfield didn’t quite work out. I would personally prefer the left footed Naismith to play on the left hand side where he looks more comfortable and will pose more of an attacking threat.

It’s something for Sheridan to ponder and may depend on whether left full back Tom Pearce is available for selection on Tuesday night against Peterborough United.

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Wigan Athletic | Tagged Charlton Athletic, EFL, Jake Forster-Caskey, John Sheridan, Wigan Athletic | Leave a comment

Latics suffer reality check – Crewe Alexandra 3 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on October 10, 2020 by ianhaspinall

After two very good performances against Portsmouth and Doncaster Rovers Wigan Athletic were brought back down to earth with a 3-0 defeat at Crewe Alexandra.

The hosts produced an excellent display of passing football and thoroughly deserved to secure the three points against the lacklustre visitors.

Despite wasting several early chances Crewe were ahead on 27 minutes when Luke Offord got between Latics’ central defenders Darnell Johnson and Kal Naismith and headed home from close range. Harry Pickering added a well-worked second on 40 minutes as the hosts took full control.

The three points were effectively sealed on 59 minutes when Michael Mandron tapped home after Jamie Jones had twice saved shots from Crewe players before being beaten.

Latics drop down to 16th in the League One table and the Railwaymen rise above them to 13th place.

New signing Will Keane came into starting 11 to replace captain and leading scorer Joe Garner who suffered a head injury against Doncaster. In his absence Lee Evans captained the team. Crewe had two former Latics players Donervon Daniels and Mandron in their starting line-up.

In windy conditions Latics might have gone ahead early on when Gavin Massey’s blocked tackle flew towards goal but keeper Dave Richards managed to stay alert and tip over the crossbar.

Naismith then had a great chance when the ball fell to him eight-yards out but he lifted his effort high over the crossbar.

Jones then came to Latics’ rescue as he made a fine double save from Perry Ng and Daniels. The former Latic Daniels was injured in the attack and had to be replaced by Omar Beccles.

Mandron then had a chance on 21 minutes when he was free on the edge of the six- yard box but he got his feet in a tangle and Jones was able to smother the ball.

Soon afterwards the hosts were ahead as they were allowed plenty of time to cross into the box and Offord got between Johnson and Naismith to head past Jones.

Crewe were in the ascendancy now as Latics struggled to re-create their recent good form and it was clear they were missing the presence of their captain and leading goalscorer Garner.

Mandron could have added to the hosts lead on 34 minutes when he headed straight at Jones from a good position.

But Crewe increased their advantage just before half time when Pickering drove forward into the box before smashing his shot past Jones.

Latics had been outplayed in the first half and it would require a radical improvement if they were to get anything from the game.

They started the second half more brightly but couldn’t capitalise when keeper Richards failed to punch clear inside his own six-yard box.

But soon the hosts increased their lead despite the best efforts of Jones, who twice saved shots, before Mandron tapped the ball home.

Massey fired wide for Latics on 64 minutes and substitute Olly Crankshaw had a goal disallowed for offside on 70 minutes, but the truth was that Latics rarely posed a goal threat and Crewe ran out very comfortable winners.

It had been an excellent performance by David Artell’s team but John Sheridan’s men were well off the pace. Latics young players looked tired after a hectic early season and several of the senior players, in particular Lee Evans and Gavin Massey, produced disappointing displays.

Latics have gone through so much change in the last few months and it is perhaps not surprising that all the changes have now caught up with the squad.

It has been a difficult transitional period. The squad is still very thin and too reliant on young players from the Academy. It is important that when the new owners do take over that they recruit players with sufficient quality and experience to move the club forward.

Sheridan must now try to regroup and prepare his players for a tough away fixture at Charlton Athletic next week. It is to be hoped that captain Garner will be available for selection and that some of the other senior players show improved commitment in the coming weeks.

Posted in Crewe Alexandra, Harry Pickering, Jamie Jones, Luke Offord, Michael Mandron, Wigan Athletic | Tagged Crewe Alexandra, Harry Pickering, Jamie Jones, Luke Offord, Michael Mandron, Wigan Athletic | Leave a comment

Latics round off important week with back-to-back wins – Wigan Athletic 1 Doncaster Rovers 0

Posted on October 3, 2020 by ianhaspinall

Joe Garner on target for Latics

It’s been a special week for Wigan Athletic as they received news of new Spanish owners and achieved their first back-to-back League wins of the season.

After a difficult first half, when Doncaster spurned several good chances, Latics improved markedly in the second half.

Pressing high and giving the visitors little room to play out from the back they dominated and scored on 59 minutes when Joe Garner executed a perfect header from Solomon-Otabor’s excellent deep cross.

Soon afterwards Solomon-Otabor should’ve added a second when set up by Garner but Josef Bursik made a good save low down to his left.

Ultimately the hosts ran out comfortable winners as the visitors rarely threatened during the second period.

Latics move up to 10th in the table while Doncaster sit in fifth.

John Sheridan named new loan signing Darnell Johnson in his starting defence alongside Kal Naismith with Danny Fox likely to move away from the club. Gavin Massey returned to the starting eleven after injury.

Latics started brightly and Tom Pearce’s looping cross nearly found Garner on the edge of the six yard box after only three minutes.

The hosts had a shout for a possible handball on eight minutes when Massey’s shot was blocked by a Doncaster defender.

Solomon-Otabor then produced a neat turn and shot from the edge of the box on sixteen minutes but Doncaster gradually asserted themselves and started to create opportunities at the other end.

On 17 minutes Jamie Jones made two good saves in quick succession from James Coppinger.

Jon Taylor then dragged his shot wide from a good position on 31 minutes as the visitors began to dominate.

Fortunately for Latics the Doncaster pressure came to nothing and Latics could regroup during the half time interval.

Latics started the second half pressing much higher up the pitch and this was to be the catalyst for their victory.

The hosts were ahead on 59 minutes when Solomon-Otabor’s cross was converted by Garner when he headed expertly beyond Bursik.

Garner then set up Solomon-Otabor but the winger’s effort was well saved by Bursik on 62 minutes.

Latics were in complete control now as the visitors struggled to get out of their own half and pose any attacking threat.

Latics back line was rarely troubled and their possession based football enabled them to run out comfortable winners. New loanee Darnell Johnson had a strong debut and looks a promising addition to the team.

If the new Spanish owners can stabilise the club and make a few astute additions Latics might even be able to challenge at the top of the table, a thought which was almost unthinkable a few weeks ago.

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com

Posted in Doncaster Rovers, Joe Garner, Wigan Athletic | Tagged Doncaster Rovers, Joe Garner, Wigan Athletic | Leave a comment

Confidence boost as crisis club Wigan get first win – Portsmouth 1 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on September 26, 2020 by ianhaspinall

Wigan Athletic secured an important first win of the season with a fine away performance at Portsmouth.

The club who have had little good news recently outplayed one of League One’s promotion favourites and probably should have won by more than the 2-1 scoreline.

Latics went ahead just before half-time when Lee Evans converted after good work by Viv Solomon-Otabor and Tom James increased their lead on 59 minutes with a super strike from a 30-yard free-kick which flew into the top corner of the Pompey net.

The visitors should have increased their advantage when Solomon-Otabor and Evans went close but they had a nervous final five minutes as the hosts pulled a goal back in the 89th minute through substitute Ellis Harrison.

The result lifts Latics into 18th place in the table while Portsmouth sit in 21st position after three games played.

Manager John Sheridan was without the injured former Portsmouth midfielder Gary Roberts but Gavin Massey returned to the bench after injury. Former Latic Michael Jacobs made his full debut for Portsmouth.

In blustery conditions both teams struggled to come to terms with the wind in the early stages.

Latics had a scare after seven minutes when a Pompey cross deceived keeper Jamie Jones but luckily for the visitors the ball hit the post and went away to safety.

Jones was again in trouble after 13 minutes when he completely misjudged a Jacobs cross from the left but fortunately Kal Naismith was on hand to head clear.

Evans then threatened for Latics when he curled an effort just over the angle of post and crossbar from the edge of the box.

The visitors were unlucky to lose full-back Tom Pearce with an injury after 21 minutes and they had to reshuffle the defence with Chris Merrie slotting in at left-back and Dan Gardner coming into midfield.

Pompey were getting into some good attacking positions but their final pass or cross was ineffective and it was the visitors who took the lead after 39 minutes through Evans.

Solomon-Otabor put in a dangerous cross and after Perry’s shot had been blocked, the Wales international Evans volleyed into the ground and the ball bounced over MacGillivray and into the Pompey net.

1-0 to the visitors at the interval and Latics continued to create the better chances in the second half.

Solomon-Otabor had a fine effort which went narrowly wide of the target after some great work by Merrie driving forward down the left.

Evans then fired over the crossbar from a good position after more good work by Merrie, this time on the right.

Latics consolidated their lead on 59 minutes with a James wonder strike from a 30-yard free-kick. The Hibernian loanee was given the opportunity to take the free-kick after consultation with Latics’ bench and he took the opportunity with both hands with a perfect hit which flew into the top corner of MacGillivray’s net.

Latics were now looking comfortable but they got a scare on 65 minutes when Jones picked up a back pass rather than kicking clear. Fortunately for Jones and Latics the Pompey close range free-kick was blocked by the defensive wall and then cleared.

Garner then nearly added to Latics’ lead when he stole the ball on the edge of the Pompey area but his effort was straight at MacGillivray.

Substitute Williams then fired narrowly wide for the hosts as the game opened up to chances at both ends.

Gavin Massey replaced Solomon-Otabor on 79 minutes as Latics looked to utilise the winger’s pace on the break.

With time running out for Kenny Jackett’s team they pulled a goal back on 89 minutes when John Marquis chested the ball down for Harrison to convert.

A nervous five minutes of added time for Latics to survive but they held on with few major scares and secured their first three points of the season.

This was a throughly deserved victory for John Sheridan’s newly assembled team and it should give them confidence going into next week’s home fixture against Doncaster Rovers.

There were some excellent performances at Fratton Park with James, Merrie, Naismith and Evans outstanding. The team played some good passing football with the young players who have come into the squad from the Under 23s doing exceptionally well in difficult circumstances.

Off the field matters are still very worrying but on the playing side the feeling is now much more upbeat.

Posted in Ellis Harrison, Lee Evans, Portsmouth, Tom James, Wigan Athletic | Tagged Ellis Harrison, Lee Evans, Portsmouth, Tom James, Wigan Athletic | Leave a comment

When will Latics’ luck change? Wigan Athletic 2 Gillingham 3

Posted on September 19, 2020 by ianhaspinall

Kal Naismith pulled a goal back

Crisis club Wigan Athletic are in desperate need of a fillip after they slipped to a narrow 3-2 defeat at home to Gillingham.

John Sheridan’s team has been assembled quickly following a fire sale of their senior players but the new line-up should have got at least a point from this League One fixture after controlling much of the game.

Joe Garner gave Latics an early lead with a first time finish following good work by Viv Solomon-Otabor but the Gills hit back almost immediately through Jordan Graham.

Eight minutes later they added a second as Latics defence stood off and the former Aston Villa youth midfielder beat Jamie Jones from a tight angle.

Trae Coyle added a third for the visitors after the break as Latics’ defence was all at sea but the hosts rallied and pulled a goal back from Kal Naismith following a corner, and they might have had a penalty in added time when Christian Maghoma appeared to handle in the box.

Latics made four changes to the team defeated by Ipswich Town with Tom James and Nathan Cameron making their debuts in defence alongside the returning Danny Fox. There was also a first start and home debut for Alex Perry in midfield.

The hosts started brightly and could have been ahead after only six minutes when Lee Evans found himself free in the centre of the box but his hesitation allowed a Gills defender to block his effort on goal.

Solomon-Otabor then had a glorious opportunity to give Latics the lead but he mis-kicked when free inside the six yard box with the goal at his mercy.

Solomon-Otabor had a big say in Latics’ first goal however, as he used his pace and skill to evade his marker and cross for Garner to finish with a first-time volley past Jack Bonham.

As is often the case, Latics switched off after taking the lead and immediately conceded an equaliser.

They failed to clear several high balls and Graham was allowed to finish with ease from inside the box.

It was not long before the Gills went ahead as Latics’ defence once again switched off as Graham easily turned Cameron and fired low past Jones from a tight angle.

Latics were enjoying plenty of possession but their build-up play was too slow allowing the Gills to get back into formation and defend easily.

The hosts new defensive line-up was hesitant throughout and it was to be their downfall as the visitors increased their lead on 62 minutes. Coyle, was allowed far too much time and space on the edge of the area, before curling his shot into the right corner.

It looked like the game was now over but almost immediately from the kick off Latics reduced the arrears as Naismith poked the ball home from Gary Roberts’ corner kick.

As the minutes ticked down Latics were in almost complete control of possession as the Gills began to sit deeper and defend. Steve Evans usual time-wasting tactics were evident as the Gills players took every opportunity to slow the game down and not allow Latics to build any momentum.

In added time the hosts might have been given a lifeline when substitute Olly Crankshaw’s cross was headed against Maghoma’s arm by Garner, but referee Tom Nield waved away Latics’ appeals and their bad luck both on and off the field continues.

Posted in Joe Garner, Jordan Graham, Kal Naismith, League One, Trae Coyle, Wigan Athletic | Tagged Gillingham, Joe Garner, Jordan Graham, Kal Naismith, League One, Trae Coyle, Wigan Athletic | Leave a comment

Brave effort by Latics but inexperience proves costly – Ipswich Town 2 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on September 13, 2020 by ianhaspinall

Joe Garner hit the crossbar

Following administration and a mass exodus of players, Wigan Athletic fielded a hastily assembled team of youth players, short-term contracts and a few experienced professionals against Ipswich Town at Portman Road.

The Tractor Boys ran out 2-0 winners but Latics can be pleased with their efforts in very difficult circumstances.

Teddy Bishop gave the hosts the lead with a header on 11 minutes after a mistake by Emeka Obi and substitute Gwion Edwards sealed the points with a close range effort with 10 minutes remaining.

Joe Garner hit the crossbar for Latics with a spectacular overhead kick but the hosts later spurned several good opportunities with Jamie Jones making some excellent saves.

The big defender Obi had an unfortunate debut missing two headed opportunities in the first half and being caught out of position for the second Ipswich goal.

New manager John Sheridan was only able to name one player Kal Naismith, from the starting eleven against Fulham in the final Championship game of last season.

Short-term contracts Dan Gardner and Viv Solomon-Otabor made their league debuts alongside Academy graduates Chris Merrie, Emeka Obi and Adam Long. Latics’ bench was made up entirely of players from the club’s Academy teams.

Latics made a positive start and might have taken an early lead when Obi came up for an early corner but his free header went wide of the left post.

Ipswich went ahead on 11 minutes when the unfortunate Obi deflected Freddie Sears’ cross from the left into the path of Bishop who headed past keeper Jamie Jones.

Three minutes later Obi had another great chance to score from Gardner’s cross but his header cleared the crossbar.

Jones then denied Bishop at the other end with a superb fingertip save onto the post to keep the score at 1-0.

Garner nearly drew Latics level on 40 minutes with a spectacular overhead kick but unfortunately for the visitors it crashed against the crossbar.

Jones was again forced into action just before the interval, producing an excellent block with his body at his near post to deny Freddie Sears.

1-0 to Ipswich at half time but Latics were unlucky not to be at least level.

Both teams made a change at the break, with midfielder Alex Perry making his debut for Latics in place of Gardner, whilst the Tractor Boys introduced James Norwood for Aaron Drinan.

Substitute Perry might have made it a dream debut early in the half, chesting the ball down before volleying agonisingly just over the crossbar.

Latics were starting to assert their passing game now with Solomon-Otabor linking up well with Tom Pearce down the left and resulting in Pearce’s low cross forcing a save from Tomas Holy.

But with 10 minutes remaining Ipswich effectively sealed the points when substitute Edwards poked the ball home from close range after right back Obi had been caught out of position.

With the clock ticking down Latics handed a seventh league debut, as winger Olly Crankshaw replaced Merrie.

With the final whistle imminent, keeper Jones pulled off another outstanding save to deny Edwards a second goal, superbly turning the ball round the left post.

Despite the defeat it had been a creditable performance by Latics with many pleasing aspects to their play. The style of football was generally good but some of the young players inexperience and a couple of defensive mistakes had let them down.

The challenge for new manager Sheridan will be whether he is allowed to boost the wafer-thin squad with a few experienced players so that the club can stabilise in League One.

However, off-the-field matters continue to dominate and the main priority must be to find new owners as quickly as possible, if the club is to come out of administration and move forward.

Posted in Gwion Edwards, Ipswich Town, John Sheridan, Teddy Bishop, Wigan Athletic | Tagged Gwion Edwards, Ipswich, Joe Garner, John Sheridan, Teddy Bishop, Wigan Athletic | Leave a comment