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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Post match comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Player ratings

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

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

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

Paul Mullin grabbed a late equaliser

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overview

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

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

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

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

Post match comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Player ratings

Player ratings Rotherham away

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

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

Review – I Can’t Stop Thinking About VAR by Daisy Christodoulou

Posted on August 21, 2025 by ianhaspinall

I can't stop thinking about VAR cover

This thought-provoking book by Daisy Christodoulou strongly challenges the view that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) is the way forward for football. 

Many people believe that since it’s introduction in 2019 VAR has been a disaster: players hate it, pundits criticise it’s decisions and fans have coined the chant ‘it’s not football any more’ to describe its effect on the game.

Christodoulou is a season ticket holder at West Ham, an expert in assessment and testing and brings some telling insights into the challenge of reaching good judgements using VAR.

Under the current VAR system subjective decisions, like judgements about the severity of a foul, should be overturned only if the original decision was a ‘clear and obvious error’.

What is a ‘clear and obvious error’? Chris Foy, a former referee who was involved in the implementation of VAR, explained that is the kind of incident ‘where everyone goes “crikey”’.

The theory behind setting a high bar for the review of subjective decisions was that nobody wanted every game to be re-refereed from the video room.

There will always be decisions you can argue about, but the ‘clear and obvious’ bar was designed to ensure that VAR would be used sparingly to overturn obviously bad decisions. But this is not what has happened.

An example of this was in the Euro 2024 semi-final when Harry Kane was awarded a penalty after colliding with Denzil Dumfries. ITV’s refereeing expert Christina Unkel commented ‘no suggestion from the VAR for a recommendation for a penalty…It should be check and release’.

However, although the referee had initially not awarded a penalty VAR suggested the referee check the monitor and then he awards the penalty.

Once a referee is called to a pitch side monitor, they are likely to award a penalty. It was the perfect example of why ‘clear and obvious’ isn’t clear and obvious. If qualified referees can disagree profoundly about what a ‘clear and obvious’ error is, how can anything about the decision be said to be clear and obvious?

Technology has not necessarily improved decision-making. Slow-motion replays have actually made decision-making worse. Researchers have shown that people do perceive an action as more intentional when they see it in slow-motion rather than real time.

Its now obvious for many of us that the emotional turmoil of supporters waiting for a VAR decision is ruining the game at the top level. VAR is killing the joy in the game. Fans experience delayed gratification or delayed exasperation. The ecstasy of the goal moment is now denied us forever.

Below the Premier League (PL) everything continues as before. The game retains an authenticity, now removed from the top level.

Unfortunately it is unlikely that the PL will stop using VAR due to vested interests. However, many people believe that the introduction of VAR below the PL should be resisted for the good of the game.

Christodoulou makes many convincing arguments that VAR isn’t working. For those who believe in VAR her methodological analysis will prove challenging.

She says the argument in favour of technology in sport is that because humans make errors, they need help. But VAR has not ruled out human error, in fact, it has created brand new mistakes, a type we have not seen before.

Christodoulou has produced an excellent critique of VAR and given examples of how it might be improved but ultimately she believes that VAR has solved some problems but it has left us with a whole set of new ones, and the game is no fairer as a consequence.

I Can’t Stop Thinking About VAR by Daisy Christodoulou. Published by Swift Press. Price 14.99. 

A version of this review first appeared in the September/October 2025 edition of Late Tackle magazine.

Posted in Daisy Christodoulou, Football Book Reviews, Late Tackle magazine, VAR, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Latics left to rue missed chances – Luton Town 1 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on August 20, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Ryan Lowe Wigan Athletic manager

Ryan Lowe made five changes to the starting line-up at Luton

  • Wigan Athletic were left to rue their missed chances as they were narrowly defeated 1-0 by Luton Town at Kenilworth Road.
  • The Hatters went ahead after only eight minutes when George Saville converted a low cross by Liam Walsh.
  • Latics might have been level soon afterwards when Will Aimson fired narrowly wide and Paul Mullin had a golden chance to equalise on 24 minutes but he could only hit keeper Josh Keeley’s legs.
  • At the other end Sam Tickle saved with his legs from Jordan Clark before Aimson poked the ball against the Hatters crossbar on 28 minutes.
  • Keeley came to Luton’s rescue again on the stroke of half-time when he produced a superb reaction save to deny Latics captain Jason Kerr from close range.
  • The Hatters enjoyed the majority of possession in the second half and Tickle made a good save from Millenic Alli and substitute Lasse Nordas struck a post.
  • In the final seconds of added time Latics had a great opportunity to equalise when goalkeeper Tickle went up for a corner but he steered his shot wide of the target from a good position and Luton held on for the three points.
  • Latics slip to 13th and Luton move up to 6th place in the League One table.

Latics manager Ryan Lowe surprisingly made five changes from the starting line-up that had defeated Peterborough United at the weekend. Luke Robinson, Baba Adeeko, Tobias Brenan, Jensen Weir, and Paul Mullin replaced Tyrese Francois, Joe Hungbo, Fraser Murray, Dara Costelloe and Christian Saydee.

The visitors were behind after only eight minutes as they failed to properly defend a Luton corner routine. Walsh delivered a low cross and Saville swept the ball home from eight yards out.

Lowe’s men responded and went close when Weir played the ball to Aimson on the edge of the box and the centre-back powered a low drive just inches wide of the far post.

Latics should’ve been level ten minutes later when Ryan Trevitt played a superb through ball to Mullin, who was one-on-one with Keeley, but the on-loan striker could only fire against the legs of the advancing keeper.

In an end to end first half the visitors continued to be the most likely to score and from a Trevitt corner Kerr headed over at the back post.

Clark forced a save from Tickle with his legs on 26 minutes and Aimson poked the ball against the Hatters crossbar two minutes later.

Weir’s cross then found the head of Callum Wright, whose header was well-saved by Keeley.

Just before half-time Man of the Match Keeley came to the Hatters rescue again when he produced a superb reaction save to deny Kerr from close range.

Asamoah Junior replaced Brenan at half -time as Latics looked to get level, but it was the hosts who first threatened when Clark drove forward and fired wide of the target.

Soon afterwards Tickle had to make a good diving save from Alli.

Saydee and Costelloe replaced Mullin and Callum Wright on 73 minutes as the visitors tried to get back into the game. However, Luton continued to dominate possession and substitute Nordas struck a post with Tickle beaten on 87 minutes.

Jonny Smith and Joe Hungbo replaced Weir and Robison as Lowe rolled a late dice.

Asamoah Junior drove an effort wide of the Luton goal before Aimson headed off the Latics goal-line and Alli had another shot from distance saved by Tickle.

Latics pressed forward in four minutes of added time with Jonny Smith’s dangerous deep cross thwarted at the back post by a Luton defender.

From the resulting corner Latics had a great opportunity to equalise when the ball fell to Tickle in the box but the goalkeeper steered his shot wide of the target from a good position and Luton held on for the three points.

Overview

Ryan Lowe had surprised everyone by making five changes to the starting line-up that had defeated Peterborough. On paper it looked like a defensive line-up with the lone striker being Paul Mullin. Strikers Saydee, Costelloe and Hungbo were on the bench and Fraser Murray was absent, presumably due to an injury/illness.

It was a calculated gamble that ultimately didn’t pay off. Luton enjoyed the greater possession but Latics generally limited their chances and the defence was once again very good apart from the early lapse for the goal.

Latics created plenty of goalscoring opportunities and really should’ve got something from the game. Mullin, Aimson, Kerr and goalkeeper Tickle had excellent opportunities and if it was not for the heroics of Luton keeper Keeley it would’ve have been a victory for the visitors.

With the games coming thick and fast manager Lowe probably wanted to rest some of his players but also try to frustrate one of the promotion favourites on their home turf. It didn’t quite come off on this occasion.

I’m expecting a more attacking line-up for the early kick off at Rotherham United on Saturday as Lowe shuffles his pack again.

Post match comments

Afterwards Ryan Lowe was pleased with how his side competed against the former Premier League outfit.

“I’m proud of the boys for everything they did,” he told the media.

“We’ve had a few niggles – and a drama with an illness with one of the players in hospital all night.

“We’re not making excuses, but we had to field a team that we thought could compete, and have loads of energy. 

“I felt like we did that – the goal we conceded is a scruffy one on our behalf. It’s not what we want, of course, but I can’t fault the lads.

“They stuck to the game plan. Luton were in the Premier League two years ago, and they’ve still got some Premiership and Championship players who shouldn’t be in this division. 

“For us to have held our own against a good team is really pleasing. I am proud of the boys – they gave us everything. 

“We threw everything at the game and made changes to try and get a result. I can’t fault the boys – I am really proud of them.

“It was a massive step (in the right direction) from the last time we were in these necks of the woods against Leyton Orient. 

“We can’t win them all – it’s disappointing, but we’ll have to pick ourselves up, and we’ve got another important away game on Saturday.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in George Saville, League One, Luton Town, Ryan Lowe, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Tics too good for Posh – Wigan Athletic 2 Peterborough United 0

Posted on August 17, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Jason Kerr
Captain Jason Kerr scored with a header for Latics
  • Wigan Athletic maintained their good home form with a 2-0 victory against Peterborough United at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • The hosts got off to a flyer when Fraser Murray crossed for Christian Saydee who headed home his first goal for the club after five minutes. 
  • They added a second goal on 28  minutes when following a corner Callum Wright’s volley was only parried by Vincent Reyes and captain Jason Kerr was on the spot to head home the rebound.
  • The hosts should’ve been out of sight early in the second half with Saydee, Callum Wright and Dara Costelloe going close but they had to endure some late Peterborough pressure to secure the three points.
  • Latics move up to eighth and Peterborough drop to 23rd place in the League One table.

Ryan Lowe made four changes from Latics’ last league game at Leyton Orient. New signing Morgan Fox made his debut, Will Aimson returned from suspension and loan signings Ryan Trevitt and Callum Wright started in midfield.

The hosts got off to a flyer when Murray crossed superbly for Saydee who powerfully headed home his first goal for the club after just five minutes.

Posh tried to respond and a dangerous strike from Brandon Khela cleared the crossbar from a great position.

Latics added a second goal on 28 minutes when following a corner Wright’s volley was only parried by Reyes and Kerr was on the spot to head home the rebound.

Latics should’ve been out of sight at the start of the second half with Saydee firing wide after Dara Costelloe had been denied by Reyes, before Saydee teed up Wright but the midfielder blazed over the top from 10 yards out.

Later Costelloe had a good chance after being set up by Substitute Asamoah Junior but the striker failed to get his shot away from inside the box.

As the game progressed Posh started to apply more pressure as Latics sat back and they did force a couple of good saves from Sam Tickle.

Overall the visitors enjoyed 70 per cent possession and forced 10 corners but Latics had created the better chances and they deservedly took the three points.

Latics now have two away fixtures, the first at Luton Town on Tuesday night and then next Saturday at Rotherham United.

Overview

Latics won their third home game on the bounce and probably should’ve won by more than the two goal margin.

The hosts had got off to a brilliant start when Saydee produced a powerful headed goal after great work by Murray down the flank.

Posh threatened briefly but they generally looked unconvincing in the final third.

Kerr added a second goal on the half hour mark and Lowe’s men really should’ve been out of sight at the start of the second half with chances for Saydee, Wright and later Costelloe.

Peterborough enjoyed plenty of possession and forced numerous corners but they only threatened on a couple of occasions when Tickle had to make saves.

Overall a good Tics performance with Murray, Saydee, Costelloe and Joe Hungbo all impressive going forward. Francois and the back three of Aimson, Kerr and Fox had been solid enough in protecting the Latics goal.

It’s been a positive start to the season so far for the Tics despite the setback at Leyton Orient last week.

However the next two away games at Luton and Rotherham should be an even better indicator of how Lowe’s Latics are progressing and whether they can become a significant force in the division this season.

Post match comments 

Speaking post-match, Lowe was full of praise for his team after they recorded a third consecutive win at home. 

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

“They’ve worked ever so hard there, especially in the last 20 minutes when it was attack versus defence.

“I was joking with them in the changing room because we did that this week for Foxy (Morgan Fox) and Will (Aimson) because they hadn’t played many games.

“We knew it was going to be tough – we scored two great goals, and in hindsight, should’ve finished the game off.

“We had some good chances – but I’m not complaining. I thought we played some good stuff – the only downside for me as the Head Coach is that we can be better with the ball.

“It’s another clean sheet – and two goals, so it’s really promising. 

“While we’re doing okay and winning games, and keeping the back door shut definitely, we want to keep the winning momentum going, especially at the Brick Community Stadium.”

In the final stages, Peterborough United applied the pressure, but Latics were rallied on to see the League One fixture out by their home supporters. Lowe paid a special trubute to the fans, who more than played their part from the stands.

“Towards the last 10 minutes, I think the supporters felt the pressure as well. Rather than jeering or booing, they got right behind the lads.

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Christian Saydee, Jason Kerr, League One, Peterborough United, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics struggle after early setbacks – Leyton Orient 2 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on August 10, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Steven Sessegnon scored an own goal and was red carded for Latics
  • Ryan Lowe’s Latics slipped to their first defeat in 10 games when they lost 2-0 to Leyton Orient at the BetWright Stadium (Brisbane Road).
  • Latics had an early setback when James Carragher went off injured in the third minute and was replaced by Jon Mellish and then matters got worse as Steven Sessegnon chested the ball into his own net in the 18th minute.
  • Latics were improved at start of the second half but the hosts doubled their lead with Josh Koroma’s excellent strike on the hour mark.
  • Sessegnon and Latics’ day reached a nadir when the defender received a straight red card for foul on Connolly in the 85th minute and the game was effectively over as a contest.

Ryan Lowe named an unchanged starting XI against the O’s following the victory against Northampton Town last Saturday.

Latics had an early setback when James Carragher went off injured in the third minute and was replaced by Jon Mellish and then matters deteriorated further as Steven Sessegnon chested the ball into his own net in the 18th minute following a Koroma cross.

It was a scrappy first half with lots of free kicks. Latics just couldn’t get going and were a little lucky to go into the break only 1-0 down. Ollie O’Neill had forced a save from Tickle and Aaron Connolly fired wide from outside the box.

Lowe’s men were improved at the start of the second half. Christian Saydee picked up the ball on the edge of the box and did well to hold it up and play in Jensen Weir but the midfielder’s shot narrowly missed the target.

But just when the Tics were upping their game the O’s struck on the hour mark to make it 2-0.

Koroma found space on the edge of the box before producing a superb strike past Tickle.

Soon afterwards Tickle denied Diallang Jaiyesimi’s close-range effort.

In the 68 minute Asamoah Junior, Paul Mullin and Isaac Mabaya replaced Hungbo, Costelloe and Saydee as Lowe tried to get Latics back in the game.

The visitors committed numbers forward to try and reduce the deficit, but unfortunately they were down to ten men when Sessegnon was shown a straight red card for a last-man challenge on Connolly. 

The hosts ultimately ran out comfortable and deserved winners.

A below par performance from Latics who never recovered from a terrible start to the game.

Lowe’s men will quickly want to get back to winning ways when they face Notts County in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday before they take on Peterborough United in League One on Saturday.

Overview

This was a very disappointing display by Latics after such an impressive performance against Northampton last Saturday. 

Clearly Leyton Orient are much tougher opposition than Northampton but Latics never really got started against last season’s play-off final losers.

The early injury to Carragher unsettled the team and Sessegnon’s early own goal made the challenge so much more difficult.

There were some positive signs at the start of the second half but Koroma’s excellent finish on the hour put paid to any Latics revival.

It was a disastrous day for Sessegnon and his late red card confirmed the feeling that it was a game he will not want to remember in a hurry.

It is too early to know the extent Carragher’s injury but at least Latics other injury problems in midfield are easing and in defence Morgan Fox should be available for selection and Will Aimson soon back from suspension.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards Lowe felt that the players fell below their usual standards and must strive to put things right. 

“I don’t want to disrespect Richie (Wellens) and Leyton Orient, but we beat ourselves,” he said.

“We didn’t compete enough – we’ll address it on Monday morning, but the fact of the matter is, if you don’t compete, you’re not going to win.

“Last week, we competed for everything. It was a big blow losing James Carragher early in the game, as it disrupted one or two things, and then the own goal gives you a sucker punch.

“Overall, I’m disappointed with the players. They need to own it because they’ve let us down and let the travelling fans down. Over 700 came down today – and we haven’t really competed or played, and that’s disappointing for me.

“Going from the levels of last week to not really performing to the levels that we can. We’re taking nothing away from Leyton Orient; they were aggressive, on the front foot, and wanted it more than us today.

“I had to apologise to the fans. It’s not good enough – that was an old Wigan Athletic performance. I’ve seen a different side today that I didn’t like. The fans have spent all their hard-earned money coming together – and we want them to come and support us.

“But the performance didn’t warrant that today – I was surprised so many fans stayed till the end. It was an apology from me and the players – they are good lads, but today, we were nowhere near the levels to win any game of football.

“The lads will be in tomorrow to recover, and we’ll put the game plan in place for Notts County. We can’t dwell on it – and we’ve got an opportunity to put it right.“

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Josh Koroma, League One, Leyton Orient, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

Lowe’s Latics off to a flyer – Wigan Athletic 3 Northampton Town 1

Posted on August 3, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Fraser Murray on target for the Tics
  • Wigan Athletic got their League One season off to a great start as they defeated Northampton Town 3-1 at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics went ahead on the half-hour mark when Joe Hungbo’s inviting cross was volleyed home by Fraser Murray on his debut.
  • They doubled their lead in the 43rd minute when Jensen Weir headed home a Hungbo corner at the near post.
  • Latics effectively sealed the three points at the start of the second half when Murray added his second goal via a deflection.
  • The Cobblers pulled a goal back with 20 minutes remaining when Michael Forbes headed home from close range from a corner.
  • Sam Tickle had to make a spectacular save to deny Elliott List but Latics ran out comfortable winners. 
  • Latics had created numerous chances throughout and they should have made the score more emphatic with both Dara Costelloe and substitute Paul Mullin missing golden chances towards the end of the game.

Manager Ryan Lowe named an unfamiliar starting XI for the opening League One fixture with many new faces making their debuts.

Murray came in at wing-back for his debut with Academy graduate Tobias Brenan in midfield. There were also debuts for Christian Saydee and Costelloe, who arrived from Portsmouth and Burnley respectively.

Latics started the game strongly with Saydee winning a free kick in the final third. Murray stepped up to take it, curling the ball into the box. The chance was subsequently headed away.

It was Saydee who had Latics’ first real chance of the half, getting on the end of a Carragher long ball. Keeper Lee Burge did well to come and collect.

Murray then tried his luck cutting in from the right but his shot was well-saved by Burge.

Lowe’s Latics deservedly went ahead on the half-hour. Hungbo delivered an excellent cross into the box and Murray angled his strike from inside the box into the bottom corner of the net.

Northampton had a rare chance when Cameron McGeehan went near, his close-range strike scraping the post.

Murray threatened again when his curled free-kick was tipped around the post by Burge. But Latics doubled their lead from the resulting corner.

Hungbo delivered the corner and Weir powerfully headed home at the near post.

The hosts were well on top at half-time and just after the restart, Murray made it three. 

The former Kilmarnock midfielder cut inside the box and curled a strike towards goal. His effort took a deflection on the way into the back of the net, and Latics had effectively sealed the three points.

Brentford loanee Ryan Trevitt replaced the hardworking Brenan on his debut.

The visitors momentarily threatened when a long-range strike clipped the top of Tickle’s crossbar.

Another new signing made his debut during the second half, with Liverpool loanee Isaac Mabaya replacing the impressive Hungbo. 

Northampton then pulled a goal back following a corner with Forbes heading home at the back post.

Soon afterwards Tickle made a spectacular save from Elliott List but Latics should’ve added to their lead when Murray’s pinpoint cross found James Carragher, but the defender headed straight at Burge.

Costelloe and substitute Paul Mullin missed golden opportunities to demonstrate the Tics domination but the score remained at 3-1.

Latics will no doubt face a much tougher test at last season’s unlucky play-off losers Leyton Orient next Saturday in London.

Overview

This was an excellent opening day performance by Latics. The hosts were missing several key players due to injury but the squad had been significantly strengthened in the close season.

Murray, Saydee and Costelloe produced impressive home debuts with Hungbo, Sessegnon and Weir probably having their best performances for the club.

Latics have also signed Plymouth midfielder Callum Wright on loan and experienced defender Morgan Fox has signed a two year contract from Queens Park Rangers.

It’s very early days but Ryan Lowe’s recruitment in the summer looks promising and the more direct style of play should produce positive results in this division.

Post match comments

Speaking afterwards, Manager Ryan Lowe was naturally delighted on the back of the opening day win, and is hoping it’ll be the first of many victories at the Brick Community Stadium in 2025/26.

“I thought the lads were fantastic,” he told the media.

“There was a 20-minute period where we conceded and were flat, but I said if we keep hold of the ball better, we can get our breather with the ball.

“Northampton throw everything at you, and put real pressure on us, but I thought the lads were fantastic. 

“Everything we asked them to do – they applied themselves right, and got the goals and potentially should’ve had a couple more.

“Overall, I’m pleased. I thought the fans were amazing today – it was the first home game, and we showed them what we can do. We have to keep believing that we can do that, and hopefully it’s the first of many wins here at the Brick Community Stadium.

“We’ve been trying to create a feel-good factor since I’ve walked through the door, and we’ll continue to do that.

“The fans will make their noise behind the team, and if we can come together collectively, that would be good.

“We can’t get too carried away. It’s our first win of the season, and we’ve got another 45 to go.

“If we can make the Brick Community Stadium a fortress and be hard to beat, we’ll be okay.

“I felt the passion of the fans. When we win a game like that, it’s a relief that we’ve worked ever so hard and got our rewards for it.

“The fans have been excellent since I came through the door, and we want that to continue. We want to bring the good times back, and it’s a positive start.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Fraser Murray, Jensen Weir, League One, Michael Forbes, Northampton Town, Ryan Lowe | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

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