Latics edged out by the Royals – Wigan Athletic 1 Reading 2

Posted on March 2, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Jason Kerr gave Latics the lead
  • Wigan Athletic were narrowly defeated 2-1 by play-off chasing Reading at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Reading had the better of the first half with a Lewis Wing free-kick forcing a good save from Sam Tickle, who later denied Andre Garcia at point-blank range.
  • Harvey Knibbs then went close when his shot took a deflection off Jason Kerr, but only landed on the roof of the net.
  • Tyler Bindin forced another good save from Tickle before Latics’ best opportunity came when Jonny Smith’s goal bound shot was superbly tipped over by Joel Pereira.
  • Latics did take the lead on 59 minutes when Jonny Smith’s corner was headed home by Kerr at the back post.
  • The Royals were soon back in the game and Charlie Savage’s cross was finished by Jayden Wareham on 71 minutes.
  • Latics just couldn’t manage out the game and with five minutes remaining they were unable to clear a corner and Bindon fired into the roof of the net from close range.
  • Latics drop to 15th place and Reading are in ninth place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney named an unchanged starting line-up and bench for the visit of Reading.

The visitors threatened early on when Lewis Wing fired a low drive towards Tickle’s bottom corner but the Latics stopper Tickle tipped it around the post.

Andre Garcia volleyed an effort from point-blank range but Tickle superbly denied him.

The Royals continued to look dangerous and Harvey Knibbs had a shot deflected onto the roof of the net before Tyler Bindon drew another good save from Tickle. 

Ronan Darcy tried his luck from a 35 yard free kick which was too high before Jonny Smith forced Pereira’s first save of the game two minutes before half-time.

Kerr did well to win the ball high up and feed Jonny Smith who cut inside and curled a strike which was destined for the top corner but Pereira did superbly to tip over the crossbar.

Jonny Smith had the first shot on target in the second half, cutting in from the right again, but straight at Pereira.

A Jonny Smith free-kick from the left then so nearly found its way to the feet of Jon Mellish, but the ball deflected off him and behind for a goal kick.

Latics did take the lead on 59 minutes when Jonny Smith’s corner was headed home by Kerr at the back post.

But on 71 minutes the Royals equalised as substitute Jensen Weir failed to clear and Savage found Wareham who finished from close range.

It was now important that Latics should stay composed and manage out the game but Reading went all out for the winner.

The visitors hit the crossbar from a corner with six minutes remaining before Knibbs was denied by Tickle from close range.

Latics looked rattled and from the resulting corner a scramble occurred and Bindon fired into the roof of the net from close range.

A disastrous end to the game for Latics.

Overview

Latics had been the better team against Huddersfield in midweek but they were second best against Reading.

The visitors had looked dangerous throughout the first half and they could easily have been two or three ahead before half-time.

Against the run of play Latics had gone ahead but they were unable to hang on and manage out the remaining 20 minutes of the game.

Overall Noel Hunt’s players had looked more determined, were quicker to the ball and they were composed in possession.

The Royals had enjoyed 56 per cent possession and had 19 shots compared to Latics seven.

Reading deserve praise for this performance and the fact that they are pushing for the playoffs despite all their off-field problems.

The club has been on the verge of extinction for a long time, but this week the club entered a period of exclusivity with a prospective buyer.

It is the fifth time talks over a takeover have reached this stage, but hopefully this time the takeover can go through and the club can have some stability.

Maloney’s men will need to be much improved when they take on Mansfield Town at the One Call Stadium on Tuesday night.

League Table

Post match comments 

Speaking post-game to the media, Maloney was honest with his assessment of the game.

“The result is probably fair,” he said.

“I don’t think we deserved anything from the game. We have been so inconsistent this season but I really didn’t like the first half.

“It was miles away from what we wanted, both without and without the ball. I’m really disappointed today – and we got what we deserved.

“I know we’ve been inconsistent – but today, the performance was miles away from what we need.

“Every game is tough. When you come into a game and expect to win, and you’re not willing to put in what you did against Huddersfield, you’re going to get hurt.

“We started slightly better in the second half. At the point we went 1-0 up, we weren’t dominant and there wasn’t much in the game at that point.

“The first half disappointed me. It was really slow, wasn’t aggressive and we were wasteful for the play – which was the complete opposite. That’s on me. I have to try and change that.

“We took a couple of steps forward and we then got hit again. We have to go again. If we show what we showed four days ago, we can beat anyone.

“We’re still in a position where we have first halves like this and I have to solve it. It can’t keep happening.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Jason Kerr, Jayden Wareham, League One | Tagged , , , , , , | 8 Comments

Latics dent the Terriers promotion hopes – Wigan Athletic 2 Huddersfield Town 1

Posted on February 26, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Owen Dale scored his first goal for Latics
  • Wigan Athletic dented Huddersfield Town’s promotion hopes with an impressive 2-1 victory at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics started on the front foot with Owen Dale’s powerful strike tipped over the crossbar by former keeper Lee Nicholls.
  • The hosts went ahead on 15 minutes when Dale Taylor got on the end of Toby Sibbick’s through ball and rounded Nicholls for his eighth goal of the season.
  • Jonny Smith then produced a low strike which looked destined for the bottom corner but was superbly pushed around the post by Nicholls.
  • The visitors had a rare opportunity when Ben Wiles lifted the ball over Sam Tickle, but Will Aimson cleared off the line.
  • Latics deservedly doubled their lead on 42 minutes when Dale fired home at the far post from Jonny Smith’s right-wing cross.
  • Huddersfield reduced the deficit early in the second half when Dion Charles crossed for Callum Marshall to finish from close range.
  • The visitors huffed and puffed but struggled to create any clear-cut chances and Latics held on for an important victory in their quest to pull away from the bottom teams in the division.
  • Latics move up to 14th and the Terriers remain in fifth place in the League One Table. 

Shaun Maloney made two changes from Saturday’s draw at Wycombe Wanderers, with Baba Adeeko and Jonny Smith coming into the starting line-up in place of Jensen Weir and Joe Hungbo.

Latics started brightly and went close inside 10 minutes as Dale cut inside from the left wing and fired a powerful strike from the edge of the area which Nicholls tipped over the crossbar.

Five minutes later and Latics were ahead as Sibbick found Taylor in behind the Terriers defence and he calmly rounded the Nicholls and tapped the ball into the empty net.

Soon afterwards Jonny Smith cut inside and bent a low strike which looked destined for the corner, only for Nicholls to dive to his right and push the ball around the post.

The Terriers had a rare opportunity as Ben Wiles was in behind the Latics defence, but his lifted effort over Tickle was cleared off the line by Will Aimson.

Latics deservedly doubled their lead two minutes before the break. Dale fired home at the far post from Jonny Smith’s right-wing cross. 

Maloney’s men had produced one of their best first half performances of the season and probably should’ve been more than two ahead at the break.

The home fans were hoping for more of the same in the second half but the Terriers quickly pulled a goal back.

Dion Charles broke free of his marker and crossed for Marshall to finish from close range on 50 minutes.

The visitors were boosted and threatened when Josh Koroma got in down the left and fired wide.

But Latics held firm and were still dangerous on the counter attack as the visitors pushed for a late leveller. 

Substitute Tawanda Chirewa fired wide of Tickles’ top corner.

In added time a cross from the left was met by the head of Ben Wiles, but he could not get his effort on target.

Despite four minutes of added time Latics held out comfortably and moved further away from the relegation zone.

Overview

The was an impressive victory by Maloney’s men against a team currently in the play-off places.

Latics first half performance was one of their best of the season and they probably deserved to be more than two goals ahead at half-time.

Wingers Owen Dale and Jonny Smith were particularly dangerous and caused Huddersfield all sorts of problems. Dale scoring his first goal for the club.

Dale Taylor once again worked tirelessly and thoroughly deserved his eighth goal of the season.

The defence was once again typically solid with Toby Sibbick having one of his best games for the club.

Latics took their foot off the pedal a little in the second half as they tired but they ultimately managed out the game effectively limiting Huddersfield’s chances.

Latics’ January signings have given the team a boost and hopefully the team will continue to progress as they get more players back from injury.

Maloney will want his team to continue their recent improvement in form when they face Reading at the Brick on Saturday.

League Table

Post match comments 

Speaking post-match, Maloney was quick to praise both his players and the Latics supporters.

“It was a big win,” he told the media.

“I’m delighted. Some of our home form has been good, but we haven’t had the results to back it up.

“I’m delighted for the players. The support at the end was amazing – and so was the performance.

“The first half was as good as we’ve played all season, and then we had to show the other side in the second half.

“It was really important to get that win, especially for our home fans. Some of our away performances have been very good, but our home fans haven’t seen us win enough at home.

“I’m delighted for them. They also got to see a performance – the first half was exciting and I’m really proud of how the players played today.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Callum Marshall, Dale Taylor, Huddersfield Town, League One, Owen Dale, Shaun Maloney | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Strong defence earns Latics an important point – Wycombe Wanderers 0 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on February 23, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Sam Tickle Wigan Athletic

Sam Tickle made a brilliant save to deny Caleb Taylor

  • Wigan Athletic produced a strong defensive performance to hold promotion-chasing Wycombe Wanderers to a 0-0 draw at Adams Park.
  • In a game of few clear-cut chances Latics contained the hosts with an impressive rearguard action.
  • Wycombe had an early chance when Caleb Taylor’s strike looked destined for the top corner but it was brilliantly tipped over the bar by Sam Tickle.
  • In the 90th minute substitute Fred Oneydinma almost won it for Wycombe when he broke free and fired narrowly wide, but Latics held out for an important point.
  • Latics remain in 16th place and Wycombe in second place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney named an unchanged starting line-up from the midweek 1-1 draw at Crawley Town.

The hosts started strongly and a free kick from the left after just two minutes found Caleb Taylor whose effort looked destined for the top corner but it was brilliantly tipped over by Tickle.

A Josh Scowen volley then shaved the top of the crossbar as Latics had to survive some early pressure from the in-form Chairboys.

Latics struggled to build any momentum in the first half but they were solid defensively and were able to frustrate the hosts.

Wycombe’s first attempt of the second half came on 52 minutes as Cameron Humphreys drove a low shot towards goal, which Tickle did well to save with his legs.

Latics briefly threatened when Owen Dale forced a save from Will Norris as they upped their game early in the second half.

Substitute Onyedinma nearly got in behind the Latics defence, but Tickle was quick off his line to block his shot with 15 minutes remaining.

Latics were pushing for a late winner, but were nearly caught on the counter attack in the 90th minute as Onyedinma fired narrowly wide of Tickle’s far post.

An important point gained against strong opposition as Latics look to avoid getting dragged into a relegation battle.

Overview

This was a hard-fought point for Latics against a side who are pushing for automatic promotion and who are unbeaten in their last 17 league games played on a Saturday.

Latics defended superbly and contained a team who have scored 58 goals, the highest scoring team in the division.

The back four were at their best and limited the hosts to very few chances and when called upon Sam Tickle made one brilliant save.

Captain Jason Kerr and Will Aimson were at their efficient best, Jon Mellish had his best game for Latics so far and the much maligned Toby Sibbick put in a solid display.

After such a good display it was a little disappointing to see that Latics gap to the bottom four had been reduced to only four points but they do have games in hand on most of the teams below them.

Maloney’s men will be hoping to continue the good work when they face promotion-chasing Huddersfield Town who surprisingly lost to Peterborough United, at the Brick Community Stadium on Tuesday night. 

League TableLeague One Table 22 Feb 2025

Post match comments

Speaking post-game to the media, Maloney credited his players for their relentless work off the ball and believed that they showed a different side in terms of their mentality. 

“We had to work hard for that,” he told the media.

“The performance with the ball can definitely be better – but I really enjoyed what we did without the ball.

“I didn’t like the first 10 minutes, but after that, we didn’t give up big chances. Three or four weeks ago, we would’ve lost that game. 

“In a really hard match, I really enjoyed what the players gave. They gave the supporters absolutely everything. 

“The boys were dead on their feet at the end. I get a big satisfaction from watching them defend like that – this team is new together but they’re growing together. 

“In a really good way, I liked how we defended, in a game where we had to defend. We showed a side to us that we probably have seen all season, and I really liked it.

“They (the fans) will definitely be happy with a point, like us. We can definitely play better, but they’ve seen games like that this season where we’ve got beat. We showed a side to us that I haven’t seen in this group. 

“It wasn’t a classic in terms of us with the ball, but we were very good without the ball.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in League One, Sam Tickle, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic, wycombe wanderers | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments

Latics fail to make their dominance count – Crawley Town 1 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on February 19, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Dale Taylor Wigan Athletic
Dale Taylor headed Latics ahead
  • Wigan Athletic failed to make their overall dominance count against Crawley Town at the Broadfield Stadium and were held to a 1-1 draw.
  • Latics created numerous goal scoring opportunities but they were unable to hit the net until Dale Taylor headed home on 39 minutes.
  • Against the run of play Crawley equalised with an unstoppable strike from Charlie Barker three minutes later.
  • Latics had the better of the second half, created plenty of opportunities and had two goals ruled out for offside, but they failed to capitalise on their dominance and the points had to be shared.
  • Latics move up to 16th place and Crawley drop to 22nd place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made five changes from the defeat against Stockport County. Will Aimson, Ollie Norburn, Joe Hungbo, Owen Dale and Ronan Darcy came into the starting XI.

Latics started brightly and Dale’s left-sided cross found Hungbo at the far post, but the hosts scrambled the ball away before Taylor could pounce inside the six-yard box.

At the other end Rushian Hepburn-Murphy’s lifted effort was denied by the palm of Sam Tickle. 

Hungbo was causing plenty of problems for the Crawley defence and his low strike on 12 minutes was tipped around the post by Joe Woollacott. 

At the other end Harry Forster tried his luck from the edge of the area and his deflected effort nearly came to Hepburn-Murphy. 

Latics were having the better of it and were forcing numerous corners, and Taylor glanced a header narrowly wide of the target.

The visitors finally went ahead six minutes before the break as the new signings Dale and Darcy combined brilliantly down the left, and Darcy floated an inviting ball to the back post which Taylor headed home.

But out of the blue Crawley equalised three minutes later as Charlie Barker produced an unstoppable strike into the top corner from the edge of the box.

Tickle then had to be alert to save Kamari Doyle’s curling free-kick on the stroke of half-time. 

Latics had 14 attempts at goal and forced nine corners in the first half but they were only level at the break.

Early in the second half Latics again went close as Taylor’s hanging header hit the foot of the post from Aimson’s deep cross.

Latics were controlling possession and putting pressure on the Crawley defence but they were unable to make their dominance count.

The hosts went close on 57 minutes when a deep cross from the right found Forster who headed wide of the near post.

Taylor then thought he had found his second goal on the hour mark, but he was given offside as he tapped home Toby Sibbick’s low shot.

Jonny Smith replaced Hungbo on 65 minutes and soon afterwards Darcy’s shot was deflected for another Latics corner.

Doyle then drove forward on the counter attack, but Tickle saved low down on 71 minutes.

Substitute Jonny Smith was posing plenty of problems and he had a deflected effort just wide of the target. Soon afterwards he cut inside and curled a typical Jonny Smith effort narrowly wide of the far post on 80 minutes.

Latics were pressing hard for the winner and Taylor had another goal ruled out for offside in added time as he diverted Substitute Callum McManaman’s shot into the net.

Jon Mellish’s dangerous low cross was then cleared away at the near post for yet another corner and Latics had to settle for a point.

Overview

This was an improved performance by Maloney’s team but they couldn’t make their dominance count. Latics showed good attacking intent, but goal scoring has been a problem all season and it was particularly evident against Crawley.

Latics had 27 shots and forced 17 corners but they were unable to capitalise apart from one of those chances with Dale Taylor scoring his seventh goal of the season.

The club now only have one recognised striker in Taylor, now that loan signing Will Goodwin has been injured in training and will be unavailable until at least April.

The decision to allow Josh Stones to leave and the lack of the recruitment of another striker is proving to be a big mistake. Operating with only two loan strikers was always a risky strategy.

The club’s previous financial difficulties are well known and the club has to be more sustainable, but the failure to recruit an established striker is damaging the club’s progress.

Post match comments

Speaking post-game, Maloney came away satisfied with his team’s overall performance on the night and was naturally disappointed for the players and supporters that their efforts weren’t rewarded with a victory.

“We were good tonight, and played well,” he told the media.

“We played well as we did against Fulham in that second half. Crawley are very good at keeping possession but we were good with the ball and at the same levels without it. We should’ve won that game.

“There is nothing negative to say about the players. Their goal was a brilliant moment, but apart from that, Sam Tickle had little to do. I’m very disappointed that we didn’t win. We just didn’t do quite enough to score that second goal and win.

“I’m glad the performance was the way it was. I know we’ve drawn the game, and I know our fans would’ve wanted to win that.

“This is a difficult journey for them, and we had really good support tonight. The away support and the support I get in particular is very good, and I appreciate it. I hope they saw a good performance – we need to find consistency to perform like that at home.

“I know where we are at this moment, and games like today give us hope.”

Player ratings

Posted in Charlie Barker, Crawley Town, Dale Taylor, League One, Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

Latics continue to struggle at home – Wigan Athletic 0 Stockport County 2

Posted on February 16, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Shaun Maloney
Shaun Maloney looking for answers
  • Wigan Athletic’s poor home form continued as they lost 2-0 to promotion-chasing Stockport County at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics had showed some early promise with Jonny Smith going close. County responded and Sam Tickle had to make a big save to deny Ethan Pye.
  • James Carragher then forced an important save from Ben Hinchliffe. At the other end Tickle had to make another brilliant save at close range to deny former Latic Callum Connolly.
  • Latics should’ve have gone in front on 75 minutes when substitute Joseph Hungbo played in fellow substitute Ronan Darcy, but County’s substitute goalkeeper Corey Addai did superbly to save with his leg.
  • On 79 minutes the visitors broke the deadlock as substitute Callum Camps’ cross was finished by substitute Lewis Bate before Will Collar sealed the three points from another Camps’ left-wing cross.
  • Latics drop to 18th place and County are in fourth place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made one change from last weekend’s FA Cup defeat to Fulham, with Jon Mellish coming in for Luke Robinson at left-back.

The visitors had a very early chance when Iboi Touray tried his luck from distance. Tickle did well to react and he got a firm hand to the ball and Jason Kerr put the ball behind for a corner.

Latics then had a big chance as Mellish crossed and the ball reached Jensen Weir, but he blazed his effort wide of the target.

Jonny Smith then produced one of his typical strikes cutting inside from the right and firing a low shot which Hinchcliffe did well to tip round for a corner.

Tickle then had to come to Latics rescue saving well from Ethan Pye from close range following a free-kick.

Carragher then tested Hinchliffe with a volley from the edge of the box which the Stockport keeper saved with his legs. 

Soon afterwards Hinchcliffe had to withdrawn due to an injury and replaced by Addai. 

Latics threatened at the start of the second half as Dale Taylor saw his strike well saved by Addai.

At the other end Tickle did brilliantly to deny Connolly at close range.

Joseph Hungbo and Owen Dale replaced Jonny Smith and Asamoah Junior on 58 minutes.

Hungbo was soon causing plenty of problems for Stockport down their left side.

On 75 minutes Latics should’ve broken the deadlock when Hungbo played in Darcy, but Addai got a vital leg to his effort to divert the ball wide.

Soon afterwards the visitors were ahead as Camps’ cross from the left was met by Bate inside the box and he finished low past Tickle.

Just three minutes later County made it two and sealed the points as Camps crossed again this time for Collar to fire home at the far post.

Kerr thought he had pulled a goal back in the 90th minute but Addai once again denied Latics with a superb diving save.

Another frustrating home defeat for Latics who have only won four league games at the Brick Community Stadium all season.

Overview

Shaun Maloney may regret his starting lineup as Latics failed to capitalise on the attacking momentum they had built up in the second half against Fulham.

Latics had been impressive against Premier League opposition with Owen Dale and Ronan Darcy predominant but the new signings only started on the bench against County. 

An opportunity to take the game to County in the first half was wasted as Latics once again looked tentative.

Latics did improve in the second half and overall they had matched promotion-chasing County but the difference was that in the vital moments County took their chances and Latics didn’t.

Hinchcliffe and substitute goalkeeper Addai made some important saves but Latics just have to be more clinical in the final third. 

Maloney has had to contend with a lot of injuries this season and the churn of players has not helped the cause, but Latics have to improve in both boxes or they will be dragged into a relegation battle.

Tuesday night’s trip to fourth bottom Crawley now looks like a six-pointer with Latics looking over their shoulders.

League One Table

Post match comments

Speaking post-game to the media Maloney spoke about the importance of improving their effectiveness in both boxes. 

“We had a massive chance at 0-0, and we had to take it,” he said.

“That was the difference in terms of the momentum of the game. We didn’t get our pressure right in the first half, and the second half was much better.

“The difference today was they were efficient with how they attacked our box, and we were the opposite. We had big chances, and we didn’t take them.

“Looking at ourselves, we have to defend their box better. As soon as we get the pressure right higher up, we have to defend our box better – that’s the reason we got beat today.

“For large parts of this game, the performance was good, but it’s the most critical areas that are costing us. 

“I’ve said this many times –  we’re creating many chances but not taking them. That’s been the story of our season.

“From a coaching point of view, there has to be a trust in the players that they will eventually take their chances, and create a squad that’s ruthless enough.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in League One, Lewis Bate, Shaun Maloney, Stockport County, Wigan Athletic, Will Collar | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

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

Posted on February 13, 2025 by ianhaspinall

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

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.

He provides details of Neymar’s £198m transfer to Paris Saint Germain and Abu Dhabi’s construction empire in Manchester to failed Financial Fair Play constraints and the dawn of the European Super League.

In an exhaustive account of corruption, he summarises the current state of the game.

“Abu Dhabi’s Manchester City have won more trophies and games across seven years than any other English team in history; Qatar’s Paris Saint Germain have rendered the French league a joke and the global party of the World Cup has been held in countries where minorities fear to go, and migrant workers have been abused in its staging. The sport’s economy has meanwhile been upended with state influence in every corner, and capitalist enterprises picking off everything in between.”

Delaney identifies that it is difficult to have too many rational thoughts about human rights amid the profound emotion of sporting victory. This is perhaps why so many negative things have been allowed to happen in football. 

Every metric shows the sport across Europe is more predictable than 30, 20 and even 10 years ago. Somehow, a world where the vast majority of teams can’t compete has been normalised.

The essence of football is community, and yet cynical interests have sought to commodify the football experience. Delaney is rightly critical of how the football authorities such as FIFA, UEFA and the Premier League have allowed this to happen.

Delaney believes the current legal case by the Premier League against Manchester City for breaking more than 100 of its financial rules could provide an existential moment for football.

“If City are found guilty, it will alter the perception of an entire decade of the Premier League. The entire face of the competition would similarly be transformed if City were to be expelled. If City are found not guilty, however, other clubs may revolt. That might even happen if any punishment from a guilty verdict is deemed weak. The strength of feeling is that high, the pressure that intense.”

Delaney’s book has provided a damning account of the state of football and suggests that the game is at a point of crisis. Football has a very uncertain future, but he believes there is still hope that instead of sportswashing, the game can be cleansed.

He ends on a note of optimism and says we must look to the way Women’s football is being developed.

States of Play: How Sportswashing Took Over Football by Miguel Delaney. Published by Seven Dials. Price £22.00.

This review first appeared in the March/April 2025 edition of Late Tackle.

 

Posted in Football Book Reviews, Late Tackle magazine, Miguel Delaney, Sportswashing | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

Latics push Fulham to the limit in the FA Cup – Wigan Athletic 1 Fulham 2 – FA Cup 4th Round.

Posted on February 9, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Jonny Smith produced a wonder strike and has signed a new contract with the club
  • Wigan Athletic pushed Premier League Fulham all the way in this FA Cup 4th Round tie at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Fulham dominated possession in the first half and they went ahead on 23 minutes when Rodrigo Muniz headed home Ryan Sessegnon’s cross.
  • Latics were much improved in the second half and they were given a big boost on 50 minutes when Jonny Smith scored a spectacular curling strike to draw them level.
  • Unfortunately for Latics the lead only lasted five minutes as Muniz got on the end of a long pass from Andreas Pereira to restore Fulham’s advantage.
  • The hosts did not give up however and they caused the visitors all kinds of problems as they pushed for the equaliser.
  • Substitute Ronan Darcy curled an effort narrowly past the post, Issa Diop sent an attempted clearance over his own crossbar, Scott Smith had a low shot tipped around the post by goalkeeper Steven Benda and substitute Owen Dale’s strike from distance nearly surprised Benda.
  • Darcy then had a late goal ruled out for offside as Latics so nearly managed to push the tie into extra time.

Shaun Maloney made three changes from last weekend’s draw with Lincoln City. Baba Adeeko, Luke Robinson and Asamoah Jr came into the starting line-up.

The visitors dominated the early possession as Latics struggled to get into the game.

Fulham’s first effort on target came in the 14th minute when Josh King’s low drive was comfortably saved by Sam Tickle.

Two minutes later King cut the ball back into a dangerous area but James Carragher was able to clear.

The visitors had controlled the early proceedings and they went ahead on 23 minutes as a cross from Sessegnon was headed home by Muniz despite a challenge from Robinson.

Martial Godo then had a great opportunity to double the Cottagers lead when he was played through by Sessegnon, but he could only hit the side netting.

Almost out of the blue Latics were level with their first shot on target five minutes into the second half.

Jonny Smith picked the ball up on the right and cut in from the right and curled a wonderful strike into the top corner. His third goal in the FA Cup this season.

However, the lead only lasted five minutes as Pereira’s long pass found Muniz who finished past Tickle.

Despite the setback Latics responded and they pushed for an equaliser as substitute Darcy crossed and defender Diop diverted the ball over his own crossbar from close range.

Maloney’s men were now in the ascendancy and Scott Smith forced a low save from Benda.

Another substitute Will Goodwin then charged down Benda’s goal kick and Darcy’s effort from 40 yards just couldn’t quite make it.

Substitute Dale was making an immediate impact and he tried his luck from 30 yards on the volley which Benda had to save at full stretch.

Latics looked like they had grabbed a deserved late equaliser to send the game into extra time as Dale’s shot from distance was spilled and Darcy was there to tap home. 

Unfortunately for Latics the linesman raised his flag and came to Fulham’s rescue and the visitors progressed to the next round.

Overview

After a tentative first half when Latics perhaps over respected their Premier League opponents they came to life in the second half.

A typical Jonny Smith wonder-strike drew Latics level and despite Fulham’s quick response Latics were in the ascendancy in the last 30 minutes of the game. 

If they had had a little more luck they would’ve taken the game into extra time.

The impact of substitutes Owen Dale, Will Goodwin and Ronan Darcy was significant.

All three created opportunities and posed a goal threat that has not been evident for much of the season.

Dale in particular took the game to Fulham  and attacked at every opportunity. Both his efforts at goal nearly resulted in an equaliser. 

Darcy looks like a good creative addition and Goodwin had his best game so far.

Defensively Captain Jason Kerr and James Carragher were excellent although Luke Robinson and Toby Sibbick did look vulnerable at times, which is probably understandable considering it was against Premier League opposition.

If this second half showing can be replicated in League One then Latics’ fans can look forward to the rest of the season.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards, Maloney praised his players for their efforts, particularly in the second 45.

“Proud is one of the words I’d use.”

“I was disappointed at the end. I thought the lads were brilliant in the second half, and they went toe-to-toe with Fulham. 

“There wasn’t much in it – I am proud of how the lads played, particularly in the second half.

“I’m gutted for them that we lost the game, but I enjoyed what I saw in the second half.

“From my point of view, I’d say we deserved it from that second half, but it wasn’t to be.”

Over 10,000 Tics supporters got behind their team from minute one, and Maloney expressed the connection between his players and the fans was there for all to see.

“I expect a lot from this group. It really felt like a completely different stadium – the supporters’ connection with our players today was incredible. 

“I wanted to create that feeling even more. The biggest thing from today is the feeling from the support – and within the stadium that I’ve not felt in a long, long time. 

“I heard songs I hadn’t heard for years, and today felt like a step forward for our Club. The support should take big credit.”

Later in the evening Latics released the news that Jonny Smith had signed a new contract.

Maloney said, “Not only a talented footballer, Jonny has an outstanding attitude and mentality, and I am hoping he can continue to flourish in a Wigan Athletic shirt.”

Smith has penned extended terms at the Brick Community Stadium until at least the summer of 2027, with the new contract signifying his outstanding form during his time at the Football Club to date.

Player ratings

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Posted in FA Cup, Fulham, Jonny Smith, Rodrigo Muniz | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Latics suffer late heartache – Wigan Athletic 1 Lincoln City 1

Posted on February 2, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Jonny Smith gave Latics the lead
  • Wigan Athletic were denied three points against Lincoln City when referee John Mulligan awarded a controversial late penalty at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • James Carragher was adjudged to have fouled Adam Jackson in a typical goalmouth pushing and shoving incident which is not usually penalised.
  • James Collins converted the penalty at the second attempt after Sam Tickle saved the initial spot kick and the game ended 1-1.
  • Latics had gone ahead in the 36th minute when Dale Taylor drove forward before setting up Jonny Smith who curled his strike into the bottom corner of the net.
  • Former Latic Tom Bayliss curled a free-kick against the crossbar for the Imps in the first half, but Latics had chances to seal the points with Taylor, Jensen Weir and substitute Will Goodwin all going close.
  • Latics remain in 16th place and Lincoln are in 12th place in League One.

Shaun Maloney made four changes from their defeat at Peterborough with Jon Mellish, Harry McHugh, Jonny Smith and Jensen Weir coming into the starting line-up. 

Latics had the first attempt at goal as Taylor broke down the right and fired a low effort at goal which was blocked by Jackson.

Paudie O’Connor headed straight at Tickle at the other end before former Latic Bayliss crashed the crossbar with a free kick from 25-yards out.

Unfortunately winger Silko Thomas left the field on a stretcher with a nasty looking injury and Joe Hungbo replaced him on 25 minutes.

Latics went ahead in the 36th minute when Taylor drove forward before setting up Jonny Smith who curled his strike into the bottom corner of the net.

Weir then tried his luck from the edge of the box as Latics ended the half on the front foot.

The hosts might’ve doubled their lead on 58 minutes when Carragher won the ball high up and fed Jonny Smith who slipped in Taylor, but he dragged his effort inches wide of the post.

Latics threatened again when Scott Smith’s volleyed effort was headed towards goal by Taylor and pushed away by Zach Jeacock.

Weir then cut in from the left and fired narrowly wide of the near post.

Soon afterwards Weir crossed for substitute Will Goodwin who headed just over.

With two minutes remaining the visitors were awarded a controversial penalty by referee Mulligan as Carragher was adjudged to have fouled Jackson in the box.

Collins spot kick was saved by Tickle, but the striker followed up to bundle the ball home.

A frustrating end to the game after a much improved display by Latics.

Overview

This was a big improvement on Tuesday night but so frustrating to draw a game Latics should’ve won. 

Maloney’s men had produced an abysmal display at Peterborough, but they were far more competitive and forward thinking against Lincoln with ten shots compared to none at Peterborough.

Taylor led the line superbly and Jonny Smith provided a big threat down the wing. Scott Smith had one of his better games and was combative in midfield.

Carragher produced a superb defensive display winning some impressive headers and tackles. It was such a pity that he was adjudged to have given away a penalty.

Football fans crave consistency from referees in their decision-making and referee Mulligan failed to apply that consistency.

Throughout the game there had been plenty of pushing and shoving from both teams at set-pieces so it seemed unfair to penalise Carragher and award Lincoln a penalty.

Post match comments

Shaun Maloney believed his side did not get the result that their performance deserved.

“It was a difficult one to speak to the players at the end because they didn’t get what they deserved,” he told the media afterwards.

“If we’re being really critical, we had enough chances to finish that game before they won the penalty. 

“There were moments where we really played through their pressure. I thought we were tentative in the first 20 minutes, but after that, I was a lot happier. 

“Lincoln are very good at the long diagonal and they get players around the second ball. They are really good at winning free-kicks and are dangerous at set-plays.

“I feel for the players. I’m normally pretty honest, and I think the referee probably let us down today.

“I couldn’t ask too much more of the lads – we didn’t give up many opportunities, created more than enough, and the referee’s impact at the end has decided the result. 

“I’m disappointed- I don’t think we got what we deserved.”

Silko Thomas was unfortunately stretchered off with a knee injury in the first half, and Maloney expressed it didn’t look “too good” for the on-loan Leicester City winger.

“It’s early. It’s a knee injury, and we’ll probably find out on Monday. It doesn’t look too good.” 

Player ratings

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Posted in James Collins, Jonny Smith, League One, Lincoln City | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics abysmal display compounded by Aasgaard’s departure – Peterborough United 1 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on January 29, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Shaun Maloney

Maloney’s team didn’t turn up

  • Wigan Athletic produced one of their most abject displays against Peterborough United and were defeated 1-0 at the Weston Homes Stadium.
  • Latics were without top scorer Thelo Aasgaard who has been transferred to Luton Town for a fee believed to be in excess of £3m.
  • The only goal of a poor quality game came in the 18th minute when Tayo Edun crossed and Mahamadou Susoho found the net with a diving header which went in off the post.
  • A toothless Latics failed to register a single shot on target during the 97 minutes of play.
  • Latics remain in 16th place and Peterborough are in 18th place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made one change from the victory against Bristol Rovers, with Will Goodwin returning to the starting line-up. 

Latics had an attempt at goal practically from the kick off, but unfortunately Joe Hungbo blazed high and wide from the edge of the box.

After a scrappy opening period the hosts took the lead on 19 minutes as Edun crossed for Susoho to head in off the post.

The Posh were dominating possession and Latics were struggling to build any kind of momentum. Chris Conn-Clarke fired a free-kick over from 25-yards for the hosts on 36 minutes.

Maloney was clearly getting frustrated on the touchline and the Tics manager was given a yellow card by referee Carl Brook on 40 minutes.

The visitors struggled to string more than two passes together and there seemed to be  complete lack of energy and drive.

Latics had clearly been affected by the absence of Aasgaard, but this was no excuse for such a terrible first half display. 

Maloney made a triple change at half time, with Jonny Smith, Harry McHugh and Jon Mellish replacing Hungbo, Norburn and Robinson.

The visitors did look a little more energised at the beginning of the second half with Jonny Smith beating his man and putting in a dangerous cross.

Latics did almost equalise in bizarre fashion as Goodwin closed down Nicholas Bilokapic’s kicked clearance and the ball hit the Oxford loanee and flew inches wide.

But Latics second half pressure faded and the hosts then went close on three occasions. 

Ricky-Jade Jones was denied by a brilliant last ditch Will Aimson challenge. Tickle then dived acrobatically to his right to deny Conn-Clarke with a strike from distance. Tickle then had to be alert to punch the ball from under his own crossbar from the resulting corner.

Maloney’s men huffed and puffed but they failed to create any attacking threat. They couldn’t even muster a serious strike on target in the whole 97 minutes. 

Overview

This was a mind-bogglingly awful performance by Latics against a team who had not won in nine games and were extremely low in confidence after a 5-1 mauling by Lincoln City at the weekend.

Very few Latics’ players emerged with any credit from the Weston Homes Stadium. Only Sam Tickle, Dale Taylor and Jonny Smith could be said to have had acceptable performances.

Maloney will take a lot of criticism but the players should also take a close look at themselves as this was professionally unacceptable. 

The departure of Aasgaard was probably inevitable given his £3m release clause and owner Mike Danson’s decision to only fund the club at a financially sustainable level. 

Aasgaard’s transfer may have affected confidence but this is no excuse for the team’s awful performance on the night. 

Latics have been inconsistent this season but they had enough quality players on the pitch to overcome a young and inexperienced Posh team.

Maloney had hoped Latics could put together a winning run and move up the table, but this performance and the recent defeat to Burton shows that they will continue to struggle at the wrong end of the table.

A replacement for Aasgaard before the transfer deadline is now essential if they are to avoid a relegation scrap. Latics recent activity in the transfer market has been less than satisfactory, so it is imperative they get it right this time.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media, Maloney expressed that the defeat was down to their start in the League One fixture. 

“The game was lost in the first half,” he said. 

“I can accept how we played in the second half, but we didn’t create enough for the areas we got in.

“I didn’t like the first half. It’s not been the easiest period today, so I don’t blame the players.

“There are some things that we had to do tactically today that didn’t work in the first half. They were definitely better than us in the first half and that was where the game was lost.

“Normally I can be quite hard on the players, but today, I understand why the first half was a bit disjointed. 

“In the second half, they showed a different intent and understanding of what we wanted them to do.”

Shortly after the game, Thelo Aasgaard’s permanent switch to Championship side Luton Town was confirmed. Maloney was naturally disappointed to lose a player of Aasgaard’s calibre and expressed the importance of moving on quickly as a squad. 

“I understand that 18 months ago, this was the plan I put in front of the owner and I thought I could do that.

“I thought we had good players and I could help the Club to get to the point where we’re breaking even or being self-sustainable, but it still hurts.

“It still hurts when you lose one of your best players. He’s an amazing guy, and I’ve enjoyed watching his development over the last two years.

“It’s tough news for us, but congratulations to him. We’ll move on pretty quickly as a squad.

“It’s my job to develop the other players in the team now, and give the fans better performances than what we did tonight.”

Today marked the Gaffer’s two-year anniversary as Wigan Athletic Manager, and Maloney revealed his full focus is on helping the Club progress and move in the right direction. 

“It’s a privilege and I am incredibly proud to be the Manager here. I understand where we are – and I think that’s been the hardest part of this season.

“I knew these moments were coming and I knew what the Club were striving for financially. Now we have to move the Club forward and move the team forward.

“We’ve done incredibly well to completely change the finances from what they were – and now my big job is moving the Club forward.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in League One, Mahamadou Susoho, Peterborough United, Shaun Maloney, Thelo Aasgaard, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 5 Comments

Latics back to winning ways at home – Wigan Athletic 2 Bristol Rovers 0

Posted on January 26, 2025 by ianhaspinall
James Carragher scored his first goal for the club
  • Wigan Athletic recorded their first victory at the Brick Community Stadium since 26th November 2024, when they defeated Bristol Rovers 2-0.
  • Latics took an early lead when James Carragher scored his first goal for the club heading home Joe Hungbo’s free-kick on six minutes.
  • Rovers only rarely threatened but Sam Tickle did come to Latics’ rescue when Lino Sousa’s cross found Gatlin O’Donkor and Tickle denied him at close range twice.
  • A defensive mix up resulted in Dale Taylor setting up substitute Jonny Smith who doubled Latics lead on 70 minutes.
  • Thelo Aasgaard then had a great chance to make it 3-0 but he smashed his shot against the bar from 12 yards.
  • Latics move up to 16th place and Rovers are in 18th place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made four changes from the defeat against Burton with Carragher, Luke Robinson, Silko Thomas and Joe Hungbo replacing Will Aimson, Jon Mellish, Michael Olakigbe and Jonny Smith in the starting line-up.

Latics made an early breakthrough as a free -kick from Hungbo from the right found Carragher free in the box and he headed into the corner for his first ever first team goal.

Dale Taylor went close soon afterwards firing wide from the edge of the box.

The visitors had their first attempt on target when O’Donker tested Tickle from the edge of the box, but it was comfortably saved.

Hungbo went down under a challenge in the box but the referee booked him for diving.

Aasgaard then had a deflected shot loop narrowly wide of Josh Griffith’s far post.

At the other end Rovers best chance came and went. Tickle denying O’Donkor from close range with a huge double save.

On 70 minutes Latics doubled their lead as a poor goal kick saw Taylor set up substitute Smith and he fired clinically into the far corner.

Aasgaard then had a great chance to make it three but his volley crashed against the crossbar.

Rovers tried to get back into the game, but their approach play was mainly tentative and Latics saw out the game fairly easily.

Substitute Jonny Smith had a chance to add his second in added time, but his effort flew just over, before another substitute Jon Mellish fired over from a good position soon afterwards.

An important three points for Latics but can they back it up with wins against Peterborough (A) on Tuesday and Lincoln (H) on Saturday?

Overview

This wasn’t a totally convincing performance by Latics but a valuable three points nevertheless. 

The early goal by James Carragher certainly helped to settle Latics after the disappointing display against Burton on Tuesday night.

Both Luke Robinson and James Carragher did very well coming back into the team after missing out on Tuesday.

Defensively Latics looked more secure with Carragher and Robinson, although Rovers only rarely threatened.

When Rovers did go close Tickle produced a brilliant double save to deny O’Donkor.

In many ways Bristol Rovers played like a poor copy of Shaun Maloney’s team. Slow build up play, passing from side-to-side and a lack of forward drive epitomised their performance.

It was good to see Latics get back to winning ways at the Brick but many other teams in League One will provide much tougher opposition than Rovers.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media, Maloney expressed that he hopes Saturday’s assured win can be the start of making the Brick Community Stadium a tough place for teams to visit. 

“It’s a nice feeling,” he smiled. 

“I was really happy with the performance in lots of different ways. The players were brilliant and I’m very happy. Today felt like a really controlled performance. 

“We hope it’s the start of a home run. I love it here – I know it’s tough midweek when games have been moved.

“If the team performs like they did today, we’ll get the energy and hopefully make this place a tough place to come to.”

Carragher got the ball rolling at the Brick Community Stadium with his first professional goal, and Maloney praised the young defender who enjoyed a moment that he will never forget.

“It’s an amazing moment. I am really pleased for Carra (James Carragher) – I heard our fans sing that he’s one of their own, and it meant a lot to him.

“He’s worked extremely hard to make that moment happen.”

Player ratings

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Posted in Bristol Rovers, James Carragher, Jonny Smith, League One | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments