Summer Reading 2025 – The Best Football Books

Posted on June 30, 2025 by ianhaspinall

Book covers

Here’s the best football books of recent months for reading on the beach or by the pool. Kick off the summer with one of these six great reads.

Review – Brian Moore Saved Our Sundays – The Golden Age of Televised Football by Matt Eastley

Matt Eastley’s book is a joyously nostalgic journey through the golden days of regional televised football in the 1970s. The iconic commentators of the period, Brian Moore, Hugh Johns, Gerald Sinstadt, Gerry Harrison, Martyn Tyler, Keith Macklin, and Roger Malone brought great drama to our TV screens when there were only three channels.

Review – Munichs by David Peace

David Peace has had varying degrees of success with his three football novels. He had great success with ‘The Damned United’ about Brian Clough and Leeds United which subsequently became a film, but less so in ‘Red or Dead’ about Bill Shankly and Liverpool. He successfully returns with ‘Munichs’ about the 1958 Munich Air Disaster, the subsequent rise of Manchester United and the changing face of football in Britain.

Review – Extra Time Beckons, Penalties Loom: How to Use (and Abuse) The Language of Football by Adam Hurrey 

Ten years after producing his amusing ‘Football Cliches’ book Adam Hurrey returns with another witty and insightful book about the language of football. Hurrey is also the creator and host of the popular ‘Football Cliches’ podcast which explores the unique language of football and above all the cliches.

Review – States of Play: How Sportswashing Took Over Football by Miguel Delaney

The Independent’s Chief Football writer Miguel Delaney has produced a forensic investigation into sportswashing and how it has damaged the beautiful game. Delaney journeys from Abu Dhabi to Newcastle and onto London, Paris, Moscow and New York to investigate the allegations of sportswashing and misconduct in football. He explains how football has been taken over by the world’s wealthiest businessmen, state-backed corporations, media tycoons and oil-rich oligarchs.

Review – Last Boy of ’66: My Story of England’s World Cup Winning Team by Sir Geoff Hurst

Hat-trick hero Sir Geoff Hurst is the last surviving member of England’s 1966 World Cup winning team and his latest book delves deepest into his life and the key characters of the final. Hurst has had a bittersweet life with some unbelievable highs and distressing lows. The deaths of his younger brother Robert and his eldest daughter Claire are darknesses that he has taken decades to process.

Review – Gary Lineker: A Portrait of a Football Icon by Chris Evans

Chris Evans’s biography of Gary Lineker provides a fascinating insight into one of football’s most popular characters. Lineker led the itinerant life of a footballer with Leicester City, Everton, Barcelona, Spurs, Grampus Eight and England before becoming the accomplished presenter of Match of the Day and other sports broadcasts, a successful entrepreneur and owner of sports podcasts.

Posted in Adam Hurrey, Chris Evans, David Peace, Football Book Reviews, Gary Lineker, Geoff Hurst, Matt Eastley, Miguel Delaney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Review – Gary Lineker: A Portrait of a Football Icon by Chris Evans

Posted on June 10, 2025 by ianhaspinall

Gary Lineker: A Portrait of a Football Icon by Chris Evans coverChris Evans’s biography of Gary Lineker provides a fascinating insight into one of football’s most popular characters. Lineker led the itinerant life of a footballer with Leicester City, Everton, Barcelona, Spurs, Grampus Eight and England before becoming the accomplished presenter of Match of the Day and other sports broadcasts, a successful entrepreneur and owner of sports podcasts.

After establishing a reputation as one of England’s greatest ever goalscorers he has not been afraid to give his opinions on social media.

He recently became a controversial figure when he commented on Twitter/X about the UK Government’s policy on banning illegal immigrants who tried to cross the English Channel from ever claiming asylum.

The highest-paid man on the BBC’s payroll had been asked to step back from presenting Match of the Day until an agreement was reached on his social media use.

His BBC colleagues immediately decided to offer their support and withdraw their labour which meant the BBC’s sports coverage was paralysed over one weekend in March 2023. Lineker is well liked by his colleagues and this revolt demonstrated the power of Lineker as a personality.

Lineker’s football career had humble beginnings in Leicester and one of his school reports had the classic line, “He concentrates far too much on football. He’ll never make a living doing that.”

Lineker’s popularity really took off when he scored a hat-trick against Poland in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.

Evans states, “The three goals he scored against Poland had great significance in helping England to progress to the last-16 of the World Cup, but they’d prove to have even greater personal significance. This was the catalyst for Gary Lineker to become a global football icon.”

Lineker went on to win the tournament’s golden boot, but England were knocked out at the quarter-finals stage by Argentina. In 1990 his goals helped England reach the semi-final against West Germany, where his reaction to Gazza’s tears became an iconic moment.

In his last season at Spurs, he was named the Sports Writers Footballer of the Year and became only the sixth player to win the award on more than one occasion, following in the footsteps of Stanley Matthews, Tom Finney, Danny Blanchflower, Kenny Dalglish and John Barnes. He also managed to finish second to Bobby Charlton in the all-time England goalscoring records when he stopped playing.

A foot injury plagued his time in Japan with Grampus Eight and he had to retire earlier than he had hoped. But his time on the sidelines had helped him to work out that he wanted to work in Journalism.

Lineker became the BBC’s Football Focus presenter in 1996 and took over from Des Lynam at Match of the Day in 1999. By the time he stepped down at the end of this season after more social media controversy he was the programme’s longest serving host.

Despite criticism from some quarters, commentator Barry Davies believes that Lineker is an authentic character on-screen. “He’s not only a footballer, but he’s also a television personality, he’s an interesting guy, he’s a man in the street you can talk to.”

Evans successfully argues in this biography that Lineker has accomplished seemingly impossible things while staying grounded and true to his roots. He believes that he is now one of the most famous and influential people in Britain.

Gary Lineker: A Portrait of a Football Icon by Chris Evans. Published by Bloomsbury Sport. Price £15.99.

This review first appeared in the July/August 2025 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in Chris Evans, Football Book Reviews, Gary Lineker, Late Tackle magazine, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

Lowe’s Latics are unbeaten and unbowed in last eight games – Northampton Town 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on May 4, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Latics go close at Sixfields

Latics go close at the Sixfields Stadium

  • Wigan Athletic ended the League One season with a 1-1 draw at Northampton Town and extended their unbeaten run to eight games under Head Coach Ryan Lowe.
  • In a scrappy first half the Cobblers went ahead following a breakaway from a Latics corner with Tariqe Fosu finishing well on 33 minutes.
  • The visitors were much better in the second half and created some good chances with Mitch Pinnock clearing a Jason Kerr header off the line.
  • In added time Latics deservedly equalised when Dale Taylor headed home James Carragher’s deflected cross.
  • In the last moments of the match Latics defender Will Aimson saw red for a dangerous challenge on substitute goalkeeper James Dadge.
  • Latics finished the season in 15th and the Cobblers in 19th place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made three changes from Tuesday’s draw at Burton Albion, with captain Jason Kerr, Luke Robinson, and Ronan Darcy replacing Toby Sibbick, Jon Mellish, and Owen Dale in the starting line-up.

Sam Tickle came up with a brilliant save inside the first five minutes after a free kick from the right was deflected off Luke Robinson, the Latics keeper did magnificently to get a hand to the ball and make the save.

At the other end, good play from Darcy and Robinson saw a chance for Jonny Smith at the back post, but his shot was saved by comfortably Lee Burge.

Latics were building pressure but they were hit on the counter attack following their own corner. Nesta Guinness-Walker broke forward quickly and played in Fosu who cut inside and finished well into the far corner.

The visitors looked off the pace in the first half and had struggled to create many chances. They went into the half-time break needing a big improvement in the second half.

Lowe sent his team out early for the second half, no doubt after an appropriate ear bashing.

Taylor was continuing his fine form and he broke quickly beating three players before playing through Asamoah Junior, but he was flagged for offside.

Kerr then had a header cleared off the line following another Latics corner as Pinnock diverted the ball over the crossbar.

Taylor then flicked a near post free-kick wide before he then fed Asamoah Junior, whose effort nearly deflected in.

Lowe introduced nineteen year old K’Marni Miller from the bench in place of Robinson and his dangerous cross from the left crashed against the outside of the post.

After a couple of very long stoppages for injuries the game went into 11 minutes of added time.

Latics pushed forward for a late equaliser and they deservedly drew level when Taylor grabbed his 11th goal of the season, heading Carragher’s deflected cross into the net in the sixth minute of added time.

As they pressed for a late winner Aimson was shown a straight red for a dangerous challenge on substitute goalkeeper Dadge and the points had to be shared.

Overview

Latics were out fought in the first half and were second best in many challenges against the combative Cobblers.

They were badly caught out from their own corner kick and Lowe was rightly critical of his players with Jensen Weir withdrawn soon after the goal. But after a dressing down by Lowe at half-time Latics were much better in the second half.

They pushed forward and deservedly equalised after some sustained pressure and might even have gone on to win the game in added time.

Defensively Latics have a top goalkeeper in Tickle and excellent defenders in Kerr, Aimson and Carragher but they are clearly lacking quality in midfield and attacking areas apart from the impressive Nottingham Forest loanee Taylor.

Next season Matt Smith and Tyrese Francois should return from injury to help to improve the midfield, but unfortunately Tickle is likely to be transferred in the close season and Taylor is likely to return to Nottingham Forest.

It’s pretty obvious to everyone that Latics need to strengthen the squad in all areas in the summer but attacking players are a clear priority after a very disappointing goal tally this season.

Credit should be given to Lowe for making such a positive impact since he took over from Shaun Maloney, but the really hard work to rebuild the squad starts now.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards Ryan Lowe said,

“The first half wasn’t acceptable, and I said that to the group.”

“That’s not what we want. I know Northampton were making it tough for us, but we can’t get done from our corner.

“To get countered on like that is a criminal offence in my eyes so we were disappointed with that. 

“We said them to at half-time that we have to get the ball down and play. I thought we were the better team in trying to get the ball down and play.

“Again, we fought right till the end and that’s what I want. I need more calmness from certain players – I’ve given people opportunities to showcase what they’ve got.

“They’ve got to be a lot of hard work. We know that – there’s going to be a recruitment turnover with players coming into the building. 

“We have gone eight unbeaten – should we have had a few more wins? I think we should have.

“The lads fought hard to get a point and get a goal back. 

“We’ve got to make these fans happy. The Tics fans are travelling up and down the country, and they are paying for coaches, travel and tickets.

“It’s not cheap – we’ve got to send the fans home happy and that’s one of my remits. We’ll use the fans as motivation and a rallying cry because if they can get behind us and be with us, we’ll win more games of football.

“I’m here to bring back the good times. We’ve got to do our bit on the pitch because they are definitely doing their bit off it.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Dale Taylor, League One, Northampton Town, Ryan Lowe, Tariqe Fosu, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Lacklustre Latics are lucky to come away with a point – Burton Albion 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on April 30, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Ronan Darcy scored his first goal for Latics

Ronan Darcy scored a very late equaliser for Latics

  • A lacklustre Wigan Athletic grabbed a very late equaliser at Burton Albion to extend their unbeaten run to seven games under Head Coach Ryan Lowe.
  • Burton needed a point to guarantee their League One status for next season and in a game of poor quality they went ahead on 57 minutes when Rumarn Burrell followed up after Sam Tickle had made a brilliant save to deny Mason Bennett.
  • Burrell had a great chance to double the Brewers’ lead soon afterwards but Tickle made an important one handed save to deny him.
  • Latics huffed and puffed and it looked as though the Brewers would take the three points until substitute Ronan Darcy’s cross in the 96th minute evaded substitute Callum McManaman but also the Brewers goalkeeper Max Crowcombe and ended in the corner of the net.
  • Latics are now in 16th place with one game remaining. The Brewers are in 20th place and have now confirmed their League One status. Bristol Rovers, Crawley Town, Cambridge United and Shrewsbury are the relegated teams from League One.

Latics Head Coach Lowe made two changes to the team which had drawn with Blackpool at the weekend with Toby Sibbick and Jonny Smith replacing captain Jason Kerr and Luke Robinson. James Carragher was given the opportunity to captain the Latics for the very first time.

The hosts were the first to threaten on 15 minutes when Charlie Webster drove forward before firing a dipping strike which just cleared Tickle’s crossbar.

Latics were struggling to create any chances until on the half hour mark Jonny Smith had the first attempt on target with a low drive from the edge of the box which was comfortably saved by Crocombe.

Towards the end of the half Asamoah Jr had a goal-bound shot blocked after Will Aimson headed the ball back to him, but it had been a poor first half performance by the visitors.

Burton showed more urgency and desire to get forward in the second half and they were duly rewarded when they took the lead on 57 minutes as substitute Mason Bennett’s volleyed shot was brilliantly kept out by Tickle, but Burrell was on hand to volley in the rebound from close range.

Lowe made a triple substitution on 65 minutes with Weir, Mellish and Jonny Smith being replaced by Harry McHugh, Luke Robinson and Ronan Darcy.

The hosts had an opportunity to double their lead on 75 minutes but Tickle produced a strong one-handed save to deny Burrell.

At the other end Crocombe did superbly to deny a low drive from Taylor after good work by Darcy and Robinson. 

Latics were still struggling to create many chances as the the game moved into six minutes of added time but just when it looked like the Brewers would take all three points, Darcy’s cross evaded the head of substitute McManaman and goalkeeper Crowcombe but found its way into the far corner of the net. 

Overview

Burton have now achieved League One safety after appearing certain relegation candidates earlier in the season. Great credit should go to Gary Bowyer and his players for achieving a remarkable turn around in their fortunes since he took over as manager in December.

This was a very disappointing display by Latics after some good recent performances.

Latics lacked any creativity and cohesion and once again posed only a very limited attacking threat. Admittedly its near the end of the season and the club have little play for in terms of promotion or relegation, but this was a poor showing. 

In fact this performance reinforced the view that many of the players on show wouldn’t be at the club next season. 

Some of the players contracts have come to an end and the loan players will be returning to their host clubs but some others will surely leave for other reasons. 

It’s clear that Head Coach Lowe has a big task to rebuild the playing squad during the close season if Latics are to challenge next season. 

Post match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards Ryan Lowe credited the players for fighting until the very end at the Pirelli Stadium. 

“They’ve shown that spirit for me and for the staff in the last two months,” he said.

“They’ve been excellent in that. There were some good moments in there – we felt comfortable in the game and knew what Burton were trying to do. 

“They were going long, trying to get a point to stay in the division. A massive well done to them – Gary Bowyer has done a fantastic job.

“We got dragged into a fight, and we can’t go down to that level. If we move the ball quickly at certain times and in certain areas, we can cause any team problems. 

“We made a last throw of the dice and changed the shape with lots of attackers. Low and behold, Ronan (Darcy) dinks one into the box and it goes all the way in.

“The lads gave us everything. We just need to have a bit more belief with the ball. When we play with more belief, we’ve shown we’re a good team.

“It’s another one game unbeaten – that’s seven now. I said to the lads, I want to go unbeaten for the rest of the season and it’s an extra point for us to get to where we want to get to.

“Effort, desire, and commitment – the lads always give it. It’s all a learning curve still. In the last two months, there’s been a change of manager, change in style, and change of identity and they’re giving everything.“

James Carragher captained the Football Club for the very first time at Burton Albion following the decision to rest Jason Kerr, and the Latics Gaffer expressed it was a really proud moment for everyone connected to Wigan Athletic.

“James Carragher has gone away and got international recognition, and for him now to captain his team is really special.

“For him to come through the ranks, that’s what we want at this Football Club. He’s vocal, brave, and gets on the ball. That was a captain’s, warrior performance, and he gives us that most weeks.

“It was a a proud moment for him and his family, and the Football Club. For one of our own to be the captain in a League One fixture should show what the Academy has achieved.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Burton Albion, League One, Ronan Darcy, Rumarn Burrell, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics’ draw with the Seasiders shows there’s plenty of room for improvement – Wigan Athletic 1 Blackpool 1

Posted on April 27, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Jon Mellish scored his first goal for Latics
  • Latics extended their unbeaten run to six games after a 1-1 draw with Blackpool at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • The hosts had the better of the first half and went ahead in bizarre fashion when Jon Mellish’s volleyed cross deceived goalkeeper Harry Tyrer after only three minutes.
  • Asamoah Junior had a great chance to double the lead on 16 minutes but fired wide of the target from inside the box.
  • The Seasiders had a chance to draw level from a breakaway but Sam Tickle made a miraculous save with his feet to deny Niall Ennis.
  • The visitors were much better in the second half and created sustained pressure on the Latics goal.
  • They drew level on 74 minutes when C.J Hamilton was upended by Owen Dale in the penalty area and Lee Evans converted the spot kick.
  • Ennis fired into the side netting from close range and the Seasiders had another shout for a penalty when Ennis went down under a challenge but the referee waved away appeals.
  • The points were shared but Latics had been outplayed in the second half and were a little lucky to maintain their unbeaten run. 
  • Latics are now in 16th place and Blackpool in ninth in the League One table.

Latics Head Coach Ryan Lowe named an unchanged lineup for the fourth consecutive match. 

Latics went ahead after only three minutes as a ball over the top found Mellish who volleyed the ball towards goal from a tight angle which deceived goalkeeper Tyrer, who could not keep the ball out.

Blackpool quickly tried to respond as Jason Kerr cleared CJ Hamilton’s header off the line.

Latics should have doubled our lead on 16 minutes as Dale’s cross found Asamoah Junior free in the box, but he dragged his shot wide of the target 

Following a quick breakaway Ennis was played clean through, but Tickle produced a miraculous save to deny him with an outstretched leg.

Latics continued to threaten though and  Asamoah Junior cut inside and curled an effort just wide of the far post.

The Seasiders started the second half strongly and enjoyed plenty of possession. 

They drew level from the penalty spot after Dale had brought down Hamilton and former Latic Evans converted. 

Ennis fired into the side netting from a good position soon afterwards.

Latics introduced Jonny Smith and Callum McManaman, with McManaman a little lucky to only pick up a booking for a reckless challenge.

Albie Morgan then tried his luck with a long-range effort which Tickle did well to beat away.

Latics were hanging on now and unable to get out of defence. 

Ennis went down under a challenge in the box, but the referee Matthew Russell waved away appeals before Morgan fired another strike at Tickle, and Latics held on for a point.

Overview 

Latics maintained their unbeaten run but this was a far from convincing performance.

Despite some good play in the first half Latics had been outplayed in the second half by Steve Bruce’s team. 

The points were shared but Latics performance will have given Head Coach Lowe plenty of food for thought regarding his retained list for next season.

As for most of the season Latics lacked any real cutting edge against Blackpool despite the best efforts of Taylor and Asamoah. 

Latics have done well since Lowe took over but it’s evident that some players won’t be at the club next season if the club wants to challenge for promotion.

Forward areas will be a priority for Lowe but reinforcements will also required in midfield and defence.

Apart from Dale Taylor very few of the loan players have been consistent performers this season and this is something they will need to get right next season.

After the mini revival Latics will now hope to end the season unbeaten at Burton on Tuesday and Northampton on Saturday.

Post match comments 

Speaking post-game to the media, Lowe would’ve loved to have signed off at home with a victory but felt the scoreline was a fair result on the balance of play.

“I thought it was a game of two halves,” he said. 

“I felt like it was two points dropped from the first-half performance – I thought we were well worthy of scoring another goal. 

“We always knew with Steve Bruce’s teams that they’ll come out fighting in the second half. We knew it was going to be difficult – it’s a good point and all a learning curve still. 

“I said to them we want to go unbeaten but win games, especially at home. It wasn’t for the lack of trying today, as I always say when they are trying to win.

“I thought it was a missed opportunity in the first half to go two goals up and to be undone by a penalty was harsh. 

“There’s no complaints from me. It was an even game – we’d have liked to take an extra two points but it wasn’t to be. 

“I can’t fault the players – they’ve been excellent. I’m pleased and proud of what they’ve given the Football Club since I’ve come through the door.

“We’re unbeaten in six. We’ve been solid and resolute, though I’m always asking for a little bit more. They’ve given us everything they can, and I’ve got to take into account that they’re 44 games in. 

“We’ve got two good games left where we think we can go and get good points, and if we can do that and try and finish as high as we can, it’ll be great.

“(The lap of appreciation) was excellent – I watched it in the director’s box and they deserve that credit from the fans.

“The fans deserve credit for staying behind and giving them the round of applause they deserve. 

“They’re wearing the badge on the chest with pride, and I make sure they do that. It would’ve been nicer with three points but we know where we are, and we’ll keep learning over the next week. 

“Hopefully we can sign off the season with a couple of wins.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Blackpool, Jon Mellish, League One, Lee Evans, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics edge out the Millers to secure safety – Wigan Athletic 1 Rotherham United 0

Posted on April 22, 2025 by ianhaspinall
James Carragher scored his second goal for Latics
  • Wigan Athletic defeated Rotherham United 1-0 at the Brick Community Stadium and secured their League One safety with three games left to play.
  • Latics threatened on 35 minutes through Asamoah Junior but his effort was saved by the Millers goalkeeper Dillon Phillips.
  • From the resulting corner, Latics went ahead when Owen Dale’s deep cross was headed home at the back post by James Carragher.
  • Rotherham had a great chance to draw level when Joe Powell’s free-kick was headed wide of the target by Mallik Wilks.
  • Baba Adeeko then had a good chance to double Latics’ lead but his shot was easily saved by Phillips.
  • The visitors had another opportunity just before half-time but Sam Tickle made a superb save to deny Sam Nombe from point-blank range.
  • Rotherham continued to press for an equaliser in the second half but Latics looked the most dangerous on the counter-attack with substitute Jonny Smith twice going close.
  • Latics comfortably held on for the three points and are now in 15th place and Rotherham in 13th place in the League One table.

Latics Head Coach Ryan Lowe named an unchanged starting lineup for the third game running.

It looked like Latics had taken the lead inside five minutes as Dale’s cross saw Dale Taylor challenge goalkeeper Phillips for the ball. 

There was limited contact with the keeper, Taylor got his head to it and headed over the line but referee Greg Rollason somewhat harshly disallowed the goal.

At the other end Josh Kayode had a chance to convert, but he sliced his effort well wide in the box.

Will Aimson drove forward for the Tics and drew a good save from Phillips from 25 yards before Asamoah Junior forced another save from Phillips.

From the resulting corner, the hosts took the lead nine minutes before the break. Dale’s deep cross found Carragher at the back post and his header back across goal found the corner of the net.

The visitors should’ve equalised three minutes from the break as a Powell free-kick found Wilks but his free header was wide of Tickle’s near post.

Adeeko then had a good chance to double Latics’ lead but his shot was easily saved by Phillips.

Tickle then did brilliantly to deny Nombe with a point-blank save to preserve Latics’ lead.

Early in the second half Jensen Weir tried his luck from distance before Taylor then played in Asamoah Junior, but his low strike was saved by the feet of Phillips.

Dale then had a shot from distance saved before the Millers substitute Jonson Clarke-Harris was denied by an important Carragher block.

Latics substitute Jonny Smith then curled an effort wide after cutting inside from the right.

Jonny Smith was causing plenty of problems and he had another opportunity on the counter attack but again after cutting inside, his effort was deflected over the crossbar.

The Millers pushed for a late leveller, but  Latics comfortably held on and crucially they secured another season in League One.

Overview

This was a hard fought narrow victory which mathematically secured Latics’ League One safety with three games to play. 

Head Coach Lowe secured his second victory in charge of Latics and his team are now unbeaten in five games.

Lowe has been able to name the same starting lineup for the last three games and this has certainly helped the club to achieve more consistent performances.

Latics created more goalscoring opportunities than their opponents but the Millers did waste some golden opportunities to equalise.

Latics once again looked solid defensively and they created more goalscoring chances than they have done in many previous home games.

There is still plenty of room for improvement but Lowe’s men look to be ending the season on a high note.

Post match comments

Speaking post-match to the media, Lowe was full of praise for his players and challenged them to now finish the 2024/25 campaign in style. 

“It was one of the most assured performances,” he said.

“I was cautious today of them (Rotherham) snatching something late on, but I can’t ask much more of the lads.

“They are giving us everything on the pitch. To get back-to-back wins in this division at this stage is obviously nice.

“People may think it was just about achieving safety, but I wish there were another 10 games to go so we could’ve started climbing up the table and collecting more points.

“We’ve got 52 points but I want more. We’re going to give them a challenge from now until the end of the season and that’s to try and get as high as we possibly can.

“The players take all the credit. They’ve been excellent on and off the pitch and were well worthy of the set-piece goal.

“It’s been a big change for them with the formation and style of play. It’s a new era for Wigan Athletic Football Club – and if we keep winning games of football, we’ll get this place bouncing.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in James Carragher, League One, Rotherham United, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments

Latics nearly home and dry after Lowe’s first win in charge – Shrewsbury Town 0 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on April 19, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Dale Taylor Wigan Athletic
Dale Taylor scored his tenth goal of the season
  • Wigan Athletic won their first game under Head Coach Ryan Lowe, against relegated Shrewsbury Town, which should effectively secure their League One status.
  • Latics dominated the first half and went close when Asamoah Junior drove into the box and fired just over the angle of post and crossbar.
  • Owen Dale had a great chance to open the scoring but instead of shooting, the winger crossed for Dale Taylor to score – only for the flag to go up for offside.
  • Taylor’s winner came 19 minutes from time when he tapped home from Asamoah Junior’s pass after he drove into the box.
  • The hosts had late chances to draw level but Latics keeper Sam Tickle produced a good save to deny Callum Stewart before Mal Benning headed over and then could only fire straight at Tickle in the 90th minute.
  • Latics who are now almost safe from relegation, are seven points clear of fourth bottom Bristol Rovers with four games remaining.
  • Latics move up to 16th place and Shrewsbury are in 24th place in League One.

Ryan Lowe named the same starting lineup that earned a point against Wrexham in the last league game.

Shrewsbury were relegated before kick off as Burton picked up a point away at Exeter City and Latics dominated early possession.

Jon Mellish came closest inside the first 25 minutes as he found space down the left and smashed a low cross against the outside of Jamal Blackman’s near post and went behind.

Jensen Weir then headed inches wide after an initial James Carragher cross into the box had been cleared.

Asamoah Junior was then played in by Weir, but he fired just over the angle of post and crossbar as Latics dominated.

Dale then cut in from the right, but shot tamely straight at Blackman

Then just before half time Taylor was denied by the offside flag. Asamoah Jr fed Dale down the right and he squared the ball for Taylor who tapped home, but he was in an offside position.

Lowe made an attacking change at half time introducing Jonny Smith for defender Will Aimson. Callum McManaman then came on for Weir early in the second half and Latics continued to press forward with Taylor and then McManaman shooting over.

Latics deservedly took the lead on 71 minutes as Asamoah Junior chased down a long ball, drove into the area and set up Taylor, who tapped home at the far post.

Late on Tickle saved from Stewart as the hosts pushed for an equaliser before Benning poked the ball straight at Tickle following a corner.

At the other end another substitute Chris Sze broke clear and curled an effort just wide.

Despite nine minutes of added time Latics held on for an important victory which will almost certainly guarantee their place in League One for another season.

Overview

This was a timely victory for Latics as they looked to guarantee League One safety. It was also important for Head Coach Lowe as he secured his first victory in charge.

Recently relegated Shrewsbury didn’t pose too many problems and it was hardly a vintage performance by the Tics, but it was a crucial three points for the club after what has been a very difficult season.

Defensively Latics have been strong throughout the season but they have been the lowest scorers in the division and this will have to be addressed in the summer as a matter of priority.

Lowe will still want his team to finish the season strongly as he prepares for a big rebuilding job in the close season.

Latics now have two home games against Rotherham and Blackpool before finishing the season with away games at Burton and Northampton.

Post match comments

Head Coach Lowe was pleased with his first win in charge and happy that Latics had moved closer to securing League One safety.

“I’m pleased and proud,” he told the media.

“I thought the fans were amazing. They got right behind the players from minute one, which was what we needed.

“It’s tough at this time of the year with Shrewsbury being relegated before even kicking a ball. They had nothing to play for, but they can hurt you.

“We had to be mindful of that, and our mentality had to be right, and it certainly was. 

“I’m really pleased with the outcome – it’s a massive three points for us. It was the first win, which you’re always proud of.

“The lads have been fantastic since I came through the door, and I’ve just asked them to get a couple more now, especially at home.

“We know it’s going to be difficult but it’s our next challenge and we’re looking forward to it. 

“It’s all about us, and what we do. We’ll get the lads into recovery tomorrow, see how they are, and go again on Monday.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Dale Taylor, League One, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , | 5 Comments

Review – Last Boy of ’66: My Story of England’s World Cup Winning Team by Sir Geoff Hurst

Posted on April 15, 2025 by ianhaspinall

Last Boy of 66 Cover

Hat-trick hero Sir Geoff Hurst is the last surviving member of England’s 1966 World Cup winning team and his latest book delves deepest into his life and the key characters of the final.

Hurst has had a bittersweet life with some unbelievable highs and distressing lows. The deaths of his younger brother Robert and his eldest daughter Claire are darknesses that he has taken decades to process.

Hurst provides plenty of new insights into his World Cup winning colleagues and manager Sir Alf Ramsay. “What Alf searched for when he was casting about for 11 good men and true was team players. He wanted footballers who would literally embody the concept of being a teammate.”

Ramsay famously said, “I don’t always pick the best players, you know.” 

Hurst states, “It was important to fit in with his plan, and for that he went for hard-nosed pros who he absolutely knew could do a job for him. Ours was a team with no weak link. There wasn’t one person of whom he could say, I’m not sure about him.”

At one point in the book Hurst re-watches the final again looking for new perspectives. He observes that West Germany’s equalising goal to make the game 2-2 in the 90th minute should’ve been disallowed for a Schnellinger hand ball and extra-time wouldn’t have been required.

On his own famously controversial goal in extra time. He says, “Did it cross the line?’’ “Roger (Hunt) is certain. Otherwise, he’d follow up, not turn away. The ball bounces up so high that I’m not so sure he’d get anywhere near it, but still. Instinct tells him it’s a goal.

That’s always been good enough for me and always will be. Alternatively, you could put it this way: it was as much of a goal as West Germany’s equaliser.”

As well as reviewing the characters and events of ’66 he has strong views on the current state of the game. He believes eight and nine-year-olds shouldn’t be associated with professional clubs. He says that football has not necessarily improved.

The game he played was not just as good, but in many ways it was better. It’s a physical game and back then there was a lot more acceptance that you tackled hard, but you played fair.

He believes a lot of today’s games are boring. In his words, ‘They’re too namby-pamby’, and they’re badly marred by gamesmanship. He criticises the money and status in the modern game. He believes the stratospheric salaries have opened up a gap between players and the spectators. 

There is no doubt that the last of the World Cup winners has had a life of extreme highs and lows. He was officially recognised with an MBE in 1977 and a Knighthood in 1998.

It must be deeply distressing for him to see all his teammates depart and many of them from dementia. 83-year-old Hurst recently suffered a heart attack, but he has recovered and continues to do speaking engagements, and this inspiring book will cement his reputation as a gentleman and true sporting hero.


Last Boy of ’66: My Story of England’s World Cup Winning Team by Sir Geoff Hurst. Published by Ebury Spotlight. Price £22.

This review first appeared in the May/June 2025 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in Football Book Reviews, Geoff Hurst, Late Tackle magazine, Wigan Athletic, World Cup | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

Improving Latics held by promotion-chasing Wrexham – Wigan Athletic 0 Wrexham 0

Posted on April 13, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Maleace Asamoah Jr impressed against Wrexham
  • Wigan Athletic and promotion-chasing Wrexham fought out a goalless draw at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics’ most dangerous player Asamoah Jr curled an effort just wide of the far post in a largely uneventful first half.
  • With both defences on top neither side managed a shot on target in the first half.
  • Wrexham had an early shout for a penalty in the second half when Ryan Longman’s cross hit Luke Robinson but referee Adam Herczeg waved away appeals.
  • Latics gradually started to threaten and the impressive Asamoah Jr burst past his markers and went through on goal, but his shot was saved by Arthur Okonkwo when he might have squared the ball to Dale Taylor in a good position.
  • Later Jensen Weir played in Owen Dale but the winger’s shot was easily saved by the Wrexham goalkeeper. Jon Mellish then fired a dangerous low ball across the six-yard box but it just evaded Taylor.
  • Wrexham forced a series of corners but Latics once again defended resolutely and they were able to secure another point in their quest for League One safety.
  • Latics move up to 17th place and Wrexham remain in second place in League One.

Latics Head coach Ryan Lowe made two changes from the draw with Exeter City with Baba Adeeko and Jon Mellish replacing Scott Smith and Harry McHugh.

In a cagey opening period, in front of the Sky tv cameras, neither team looked like scoring.

Latics were the first to threaten as Mellish found space inside the box and had two efforts blocked as did Taylor. 

Asamoah Jr then cut inside and curled an effort wide in the 20th minute before Will Aimson tried his luck from distance with a strike that was narrowly wide of the far post.

George Dobson fired high and wide for the visitors with Sam Tickle relatively untroubled in the first half.

Wrexham started the second half strongly, but it was Latics who had a big chance to take the lead on 65 minutes as Asamoah Jr burst past his markers down the right and fired a shot straight at Arthur Okonkwo when squaring for Taylor may have been the better option.

Latics created another opportunity soon afterwards as Asamoah Jr cleverly turned the ball around the corner before Jensen Weir played in Dale, but he shot tamely at Okonkwo.

Latics were in the ascendancy now and they created another chance when Jon Mellish squared the ball across the six-yard box but the ball evaded Taylor.

Wrexham forced a series of corners but when required Latics defended resolutely. 

The visitors made some attacking substitutions with Steven Fletcher, Elliot Lee, Ryan Barnett and Jack Marriott all being introduced but Latics held firm and deservedly gained another valuable point as they seek League One safety.

Overview

This was a decent performance by Lowe’s men against a team going for automatic promotion. 

Latics once again defended very well and limited Wrexham to very few chances. In fact the visitors didn’t manage a strike on target all afternoon.

Latics pacey forward Asamoah Jr looked the most dangerous player on the pitch and with a bit more composure could’ve broken the deadlock. 

The hosts created several good goalscoring opportunities but as throughout most of the season poor finishing had let them down.

A clear priority for next season must be acquiring the fire power to mount a promotion push. 

Success will only come if the Latics board back Lowe with the resources to recruit strikers who have a proven goalscoring record in League One.

Post match comments 

Head coach Lowe said his side had produced a positive performance with plenty to build on.

“I think we deserved to win,” he told the media.

“I thought we handled their pressure very well. They do go back to front, but also with a bit of quality. 

“We nullified their strengths and just needed to have more composure and quality at the top end of the pitch. I can’t fault the lads – the win is coming. If we would have won the game one-or-two nil, there would have been no complaints. 

“In the last two games, we’ve seen better performances with the ball. We want to be a bit better and I’ve asked them to be a bit more braver.

“We’ve had a tough week – we’ve been Leyton Orient, Exeter and now here. I thought the lads were excellent.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com

NB The Asamoah Jr ‘WhoScored’ rating seems unreasonably harsh as he was the most dangerous player on the pitch.

Posted in Asamoah Junior, League One, Wigan Athletic, Wrexham | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics’ first league penalty of the season earns a point in Devon – Exeter City 1 Wigan Athletic 1 

Posted on April 9, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Dale Taylor Wigan Athletic

Dale Taylor scored the first league penalty of the season

  • Wigan Athletic produced another underwhelming display to draw 1-1 with Exeter City at St James Park.
  • In a scrappy game of poor quality Exeter enjoyed more possession and had more shots but Latics did just enough to come away with a point.
  • Asamoah Jr won Latics their first league penalty of the season in the 50th minute and Dale Taylor calmly converted the spot-kick.
  • The Grecians responded well to the setback and they equalised on 69 minutes when a long throw was headed out by Taylor only for Reece Cole to volley into the ground and into the top corner.
  • The hosts pressed for a late equaliser but the visitors held on for an important point in their quest to stay above the relegation zone.
  • Latics move up to 18th place and Exeter are in 15th place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made one change from their goalless draw at Leyton Orient, with Asamoah Jr replacing Jonny Smith in the starting line-up.

Latics started positively and enjoyed some early possession. On 17 minutes Asamoah Jr did well to win the ball down the left hand side and fire an angled drive which Joe Whitworth saved low down.

The Grecians had a couple of efforts from distance which didn’t trouble Sam Tickle, before a long throw was flicked on by Jack Fitzwater and comfortably saved by the Latics goalkeeper.

Fitzwater was then booked for a foul as he brought down the dangerous Asamoah Jr.

Tickle then did well to deny Cole’s curling effort from the edge of the box, which he turned around the post.

A scrappy first period ended goalless but five minutes into the second half Latics won their first league penalty of the season as Luke Robinson played in Asamoah Jr who was brought down by Angus MacDonald in the box. 

Taylor stepped up and calmly fired the ball down the centre of the goal to put Lowe’s men in front.

Latics had a chance to double their lead soon afterwards as Asamoah Jr’s volley from inside the box hit James Carragher and Whitworth somehow managed to keep it out.

The Grecians quickly pushed for an equaliser with a succession of corners and they got their goal as a long throw was headed out by Taylor only to Cole who volleyed the ball into the ground and into the top corner.

Exeter were now in the ascendancy and Lowe decided to boost the midfield by replacing Scott Smith with Baba Adeeko on 70 minutes.

Jonny Smith and Jon Mellish then replaced Owen Dale and Robinson on 80 minutes.

Asamoah Jr had a good opportunity with seven minutes remaining as he chased a long ball  from Carragher, but he lifted the ball narrowly wide of the target.

Toby Sibbick replaced Harry McHugh on 89 minutes as Lowe tried to run the clock down.

In four minutes of added time the Grecians continued to press for the winner, but Latics did just enough to secure another point on the road.

Overview

Ryan Lowe’s team once again failed to impress against Exeter City at St James Park.

Lowe had expressed his desire for his team to be more attack minded but Latics were once again lacking any real cutting edge. Latics aimlessly pumped the ball forward in the hope that Taylor or Asamoah Jr might get lucky but there seemed little thought or creativity in their efforts. 

It’s hard to identify a coherent style of football under the new Latics manager but maybe this will come next season.

It’s fair to say that the club have had to struggle with numerous injuries and most of the players were recruited for a different style of football under Shaun Maloney.  

Lowe’s men are at least edging towards League One safety after another point on the road and they are now seven points clear of fourth bottom Burton with six games remaining.

As many of Latics’ fans have said recently, the sooner this season is over the better.

League One Table

League One Table 8 April 2025

Post match comments

Speaking post-game to the media, Lowe was pleased with aspects of their performance and wants to take the positives into Saturday’s home clash against Wrexham AFC. 

“I thought we were very good in parts,” he said.

“We had a calmness to us and played some football. We created some good opportunities getting down the sides.

“We had to deal with a lot of long balls in the second half but we withstood that. If we went 2-0 up, it would’ve been comfortable for us.

“It’s our game in hand, and it’s another point in the right direction. We would’ve loved three points if that one goes in from Maleace (Asamoah Jr) but I can’t fault the effort and desire of the lads.

“I just said to the lads that we need to believe a little bit more. These boys have got some quality and if they believe a bit more, and enjoy the ball a bit more, they’ll find it easier in games. 

“It’s always a tough place to come, and the lads were excellent from start to finish. There were moments I was pleased with, and hopefully we can take that onto the weekend.” 

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Dale Taylor, Exeter City, League One, Reece Cole, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments