Latics suffer late heartache – Wrexham 2 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on December 30, 2024 by ianhaspinall
Joe Hugill Wigan Athletic
Joe Hugill equalised for the Tics
  • Wigan Athletic were denied a deserved point on the road by a late Steven Fletcher winner for Wrexham.
  • Latics had matched their high-flying hosts and had more possession and more shots but the hosts went ahead when Ryan Barnett’s strike was deflected past Sam Tickle on 60 minutes.
  • The visitors drew level on 79 minutes when substitute Joe Hugill headed home from fellow substitute Silko-Thomas’ cross.
  • Just when it looked like Latics would get a deserved draw substitute Fletcher controlled the ball on the edge of the box before volleying into the corner of the net.
  • Latics drop to 16th place and Wrexham move up to second place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made two changes from the victory at Rotherham with Scott Smith and Michael Olakigbe replacing the injured Matt Smith, who he confirmed is out until March, and Silko Thomas in the starting line-up.

Latics started confidently as Olakigbe fed Baba Adeeko and he did well to cross low towards Dale Taylor, who was denied an opportunity by Eoghan O’Connell.

Latics enjoyed plenty of early possession inside the first 15 minutes but they failed to trouble Mark Howard.

Jonny Smith cut inside onto his left foot, but fired wide before Baba Adeeko had a great opportunity inside the box, but his effort was blocked by a defender.

Soon afterwards Latics lost Adeeko to an apparent hamstring injury and was replaced by Jensen Weir.

Paul Mullin had a free kick straight at Sam Tickle on 34 minutes and the keeper saved comfortably.

Olakigbe had an in swinging cross from the left which just evaded everyone at the back post. An impressive first half from the Tics.

At the start of the second half Thelo Aasgaard did well to turn his man and put in a dangerous cross which Wrexham’s Matty James diverted onto his own crossbar and substitute Weir couldn’t convert the rebound.

Aasgaard then fired just over from the edge of the box before a scare for Mark Howard, who completely missed his kick with Dale Taylor chasing him down.

From the resulting corner, Toby Sibbick so nearly managed to head home at the far post.

Wrexham then somewhat fortunately took the lead on the hour mark via a deflection as Barnett’s effort hit Will Aimson and found the bottom corner.

Latics worked hard for the equaliser and it came on 79 minutes when the two substitutes combined with Thomas crossing perfectly for Hugill to head home at the back post.

It looked like Latics would get a deserved point on the road but in the 90th minute they suffered heartache as substitute Fletcher volleyed into the bottom corner.

Overview 

Latics had produced another excellent away performance and deserved to take at least a point against their well funded hosts.

Wrexham are unbeaten at home and are looking to secure another promotion. Latics had controlled long periods of the game, produced some good chances but had failed to make their dominance count.

Captain Jason Kerr once again led by example producing a dominant defensive display. 

Referee Tim Nield didn’t do Latics any favours and seemed intent on giving the Wrexham players the benefit of the doubt.

Latics injury problems continue to increase with news that Matt Smith will be out until March and that Baba Adeeko suffered a hamstring injury during the game. 

The recruitment team will already have identified the players needed in the transfer window but the current crop of injuries to midfielders may mean that they will also have to recruit a midfielder.

The difficult fixtures continue to come quickly for Maloney’s injury hit squad with fourth placed Huddersfield at the Brick on New Year’s Day and first placed Birmingham at the Brick on January 4th.

Post match comments 

Speaking to Latics TV post-match, Maloney was disappointed to have left empty-handed following a largely positive performance. 

“I’m normally pretty honest, and I can’t say anything negative about the team,” he said.

“There were moments in both boxes that you can pick out, but the team was brilliant today and I couldn’t ask for anymore with or without the ball.

“It’s a tough one – you never want to accept getting beat, but if there is ever a way that you do, it’s playing like that. 

“We were dominant – and in fairness, they defended the final third well. The team we were playing against are a really good team, but our performance was very good.

“If we would’ve drawn 1-1, I would’ve been disappointed and I feel really disappointed for the players and supporters.

“I’m glad the players gave the fans the performance, but I’m really disappointed that I’m not standing here talking about us winning this game, but sometimes that happens. 

“The supporters were brilliant, and the players were really good. We know the level of investment of (Wrexham), and we outplayed them.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Joe Hugill, League One, Ryan Barnett, Shaun Maloney | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics back to winning ways against the Millers – Rotherham United 0 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on December 27, 2024 by ianhaspinall
Baba Adeeko scored his first goal for the Tics
  • Wigan Athletic got back to winning ways with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Rotherham United at the New York Stadium.
  • Rotherham’s best chance came in the first half when Andre Green headed over from Joe Rafferty’s cross in the 27th minute.
  • Latics went ahead in first half stoppage time when Jonny Smith got to the bye-line and cut the ball back to Baba Adeeko who finished for his first goal for the club.
  • The visitors had a great opportunity to double their lead in the 56th minute when Jason Kerr met Jonny Smith’s corner unmarked at the back post but he headed narrowly wide.
  • Rotherham huffed and puffed but rarely threatened Sam Tickle’s goal in the second half and Latics recorded their fourth away win of the season.
  • Latics move up to 14th and the Millers are in 18th place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made one change from the draw with Shrewsbury Town with Silko Thomas replacing Michael Olakigbe in the starting eleven.

The hosts started positively with former Latic Reece James firing over before Dale Taylor tested Dillon Phillips at the other end.

The hosts Mallik Wilks then fired high and wide of Tickle’s near post.

Jonny Smith curled an effort just wide before Rotherham’s best chance of the game fell to Green but the striker headed over with Tickle beaten.

Joe Powell tried his luck from distance and Tickle saved at the second attempt.

Latics started to gain some measure of control and Jonny Smith drove forward and fired at Dillon Phillips before Thomas had a curling effort from the edge of the box tipped wide by Rotherham’s keeper.

Three minutes into first half stoppage time Latics were ahead as Jonny Smith did well to get to the bye-line pulled the ball back for Adeeko who was unmarked inside the box and the Latics Academy product scored his first goal for the Tics.

Adeeko then nearly set up Taylor for a second goal but a Rotherham defender made a vital interception.

Early in the second half Kerr had a big chance to double the lead when Jonny Smith’s corner found him unmarked at the back post, but he headed narrowly wide from close range.

Thomas then got forward down the left and pulled the ball back for Steven Sessegnon, but a Rotherham defender made an important block.

Latics were in the ascendancy and Jonny Smith cut in again off the right and had a deflected shot saved by Phillips.

As the match moved into the closing stages Latics’ game management would be crucial. Would they concede late on as they had done against Shrewsbury? 

The hosts tried to push for an equaliser but they failed to create any goal scoring opportunities and Latics secured their fourth away win of the season.

Overview

This was a hard-fought but deserved away victory for Latics against a misfiring Rotherham team.

The visitors defended solidly and limited the Rotherham strikers to very few chances. Jason Kerr was outstanding in defence and led by example. It was unfortunate that he missed a big chance but the captain had produced a Man of the Match display.

The much maligned Baba Adeeko worked tirelessly in midfield and deservedly got his first goal for the club.

Jonny Smith was a constant threat down the right and Dale Taylor worked tirelessly as the lone striker.

Latics now have three tough fixtures ahead against Wrexham, Huddersfield and Birmingham and the results against these teams should provide a strong indicator as to whether the club will finish in the top, or bottom half of League One.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards Shaun Maloney was full of praise for Baba Adeeko after his first professional goal helped Wigan Athletic earn a 1-0 victory at Rotherham United. 

The young midfielder’s goal on the stroke of half-time proved to be the difference at the the New York Stadium, securing the Club’s first Boxing Day win in a decade. 

Delighted to have provided the travelling Latics supporters with a perfect belated Christmas present, Maloney paid special tribute to Adeeko who enjoyed a moment he will never forget in South Yorkshire.

“We’ve been waiting a while for that from Baba,” Maloney smiled.

“His performance again deserved it – he’s been brilliant since he came back into the side. 

“He gives us attributes without the ball that no one in this team has. Baba brings us a lot without the ball, and now he’s starting to really affect games with it.

“It’s a big win for us again. We’re in pretty good form – and I know we had a difficult 20 minutes in our last match – but we’re doing okay at the moment.

“Everyone contributed today, and I still think there is more in us. We could’ve hurt them more in the first half and certainly showed that in the first 25 minutes in the second.

“I remember the (Boxing Day) tradition as a player, and it’s brilliant. We travel in really good numbers, and the support we get is amazing.

“It’s difficult in these times, and this time of the year is not cheap. I am delighted that we gave them a Boxing Day win. I’m really chuffed and the players deserved every bit of applause they got from the fans.

“We will try and give them another good feeling in a few days.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Baba Adeeko, League One, Rotherham United, Shaun Maloney | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics gift the Shrews a point – Wigan Athletic 2 Shrewsbury Town 2

Posted on December 22, 2024 by ianhaspinall
Dale Taylor on target for the Tics.
  • Wigan Athletic were leading Shrewsbury 2-0 until they gifted the visitors an unlikely draw with an own goal by Will Aimson and a goalkeeping mistake by Sam Tickle.
  • Latics had taken an early lead when Thelo Aasgaard volleyed home from the edge of the box from a Jonny Smith corner.
  • The hosts doubled their lead on 53 minutes when Dale Taylor finished past Jamal Blackman after being set up by Matt Smith.
  • It looked as though Latics would take the three points until Aimson diverted a cross into his own net on 67 minutes and with three minutes remaining Tickle spilled another cross and George Lloyd followed up to give bottom club Shrewsbury a rare point.
  • Latics drop to 17th place and Shrewsbury remain bottom of League One.

Shaun Maloney made one change to team that had defeated Bolton with Michael Olakigbe replacing Silko Thomas in the starting line-up.

Latics started on the front foot and Olakigbe had an early chance when he cut inside and shot at goal, but his effort was deflected wide.

The resulting corner saw Jonny Smith drive the ball deep to Aasgaard and he volleyed first time low into the corner of the net. Taylor may have got the final touch as the ball flew through a body of players.

Olakigbe and Aasgaard then combined well to create an opening for Steven Sessegnon, but the defender’s effort was wide of the target.

Latics enjoyed plenty of possession but couldn’t add to their lead in the first half.

The visitors had an early opportunity in the second half when Tickle had to beat away Jordan Shipley’s curling free kick. 

At the other end Baba Adeeko went close when he was played clean through by Taylor, but Blackman denied him, before Jonny Smith blazed over the rebound.

Latics doubled their lead on 57 minutes when Matt Smith did well to win the ball off the Shrewsbury defence and feed Taylor who finished into the corner of the net.

It looked as though Latics would run out comfortable winners, but the visitors got back in the game when Tom Bloxham’s cross from the right was diverted into his own net by Aimson’s outstretched foot.

Latics suddenly looked uncomfortable as Shrewsbury pushed forward and Latics retreated.

Josh Feeney headed over from a free-kick a few minutes later as Latics looked to be in trouble.

With three minutes of normal time remaining Latics were undone. The normally reliable Tickle spilled a cross and Lloyd was on hand to poke the ball home.

Frustratingly Latics had thrown away a great opportunity to build on the away win at Bolton and move higher up the table.

Overview

After last Saturday’s tremendous victory at Bolton Latics once again demonstrated their inconsistency with a 2-2 home draw against rock bottom Shrewsbury.

For over an hour Latics had been the better side with 2-0 lead but after an unfortunate own goal they once again retreated into defence and defended nervously. As against Blackpool earlier in the season they surrendered a two goal lead.

Mistakes happen in football and I’m sure Aimson and Tickle will hold their hands up, but our game management has been so poor this season. If Latics had some more experienced players they see out the game comfortably.

Maloney must instil much better game management into his young squad if they are to progress in this league. A few more experienced heads in the transfer window wouldn’t go amiss either. He has seen a reoccurring problem and he must now work hard to rectify it. 

Latics enter a busy and difficult Christmas and New Year period knowing they must improve and put together a winning run to get them into the top half of the table.

Post match comments

Speaking to media afterwards Maloney’s main emotion was frustration after his side let their lead slip in their final home match of the calendar year.

“The game became less controlled just before their first goal,” he said.

“I am disappointed. Shrewsbury are fighting for their lives, but we are also fighting for what we want to achieve. 

“That is the most frustrating part of today. If we would’ve seen the game out, we would’ve been closer to the top half of the table.

“I’ll back the players that we have. We were unbelievable in the last game and had a very good performance for parts of this game.

“I am really disappointed to lose a two-goal lead. I need to pick the players back up – they were brilliant seven days ago. 

“This felt slightly different to Blackpool. 

We stopped doing the things we were doing, and if you allow a team in your defensive third, those things can happen. 

“I’m absolutely gutted for the home fans. We had an amazing away experience, and I wanted to give the home fans something to build on. 

“It was a good performance, but it’s not enough. There is big disappointment off the back of what we did last week, but we have to come again and raise our levels.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Dale Taylor, George Lloyd, League One, Shaun Maloney | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Tremendous Tics topple the Trotters again – Bolton Wanderers 0 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on December 14, 2024 by ianhaspinall
Thelo Aasgaard

Thelo Aasgaard on target for the Tics

  • Wigan Athletic maintained their derby day dominance over Bolton Wanderers with an emphatic 2-0 victory at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.
  • Latics controlled the first half and went ahead in the 18th minute when Dale Taylor cut across the box before firing into the bottom corner of the net.
  • The visitors had chances to increase their lead and went closest when Thelo Aasgaard’s header was parried by Nathan Baxter and Baba Adeeko couldn’t convert the loose ball.
  • Wanderers started the second half much better but Latics stood firm and they doubled their advantage when substitute James Carragher’s ball into the box was well controlled by Aasgaard before he turned and fired into the corner of the net.
  • Latics deservedly ran out winners in a derby the Trotters have not won in ten-years.
  • Wigan move up to 16th place and Wanderers drop to eighth place in the League One table.

Maloney made three changes from the defeat against Leyton Orient, with Matt Smith, Jonny Smith and Aasgaard coming into the starting line-up in place of Scott Smith, Dion Rankine, and Jensen Weir. 

Latics started on the front foot and pressed the Wanderers goal.

They were getting plenty of crosses into the box and Taylor nearly got on the end of a Toby Sibbick cross.

A free-kick from the right then found Jason Kerr at the back post, he headed back across goal for Sibbick who headed narrowly wide.

Latics deservedly went ahead on 18 minutes when Aasgaard fed Taylor on the right. The Nottingham Forest loanee did superbly to cut across the box and fired low into the bottom corner.

The visitors had a chance to double the lead four minutes later as a cross from the left from Silko Thomas saw Taylor inches away from connecting as the ball drifted just wide.

But Latics best chance to increase their lead came when Aasgaard was denied with a header from close range and Adeeko should have converted the rebound.

Wanderers were all at sea and they picked up their fifth booking of the first half when captain George Thomason clattered Silko Thomas.

Latics had been in control of the first half and they probably should’ve been more than a goal ahead at the break.

The hosts were improved after the break and Sam Tickle had to make an early save from Jordi Osei-Tutu’s strike.

Wanderers then had an opportunity to draw level following a goalmouth scramble but Szabolcs Schon failed to connect inside the box and the chance went begging.

Latics then had a big chance of their own. A corner from the right found the head of Jason Kerr at the back post, he headed back across goal before it came out to Aasgaard who took the ball down and volleyed the rebound from the edge of the box straight at Baxter.

At the other end Thomason had a chance but he headed straight at Tickle on 59 minutes.

James Carragher and Michael Olakigbe replaced Jonny Smith and Sessegnon on 62 minutes.

Latics deservedly increased their lead on 67 minutes when substitute Carragher’s ball into the box was well controlled by Aasgaard before he turned and fired into the corner of the net.

Bolton tried to get back into the game and John McAtee fired a free-kick narrowly wide before Kerr denied substitute Aaron Collins with a block.

The hosts huffed and puffed but couldn’t find a way through the well-drilled Latics backline.

An impressive victory for Latics who are now undefeated in ten-years against Bolton, but it was another derby day disaster for Ian Evatt’s team.

Overview

This was a fantastic performance by Shaun Maloney’s team who clearly wanted the win more than Ian Evatt’s Wanderers.

Latics young team have been struggling with consistency recently but they outplayed a Bolton team which is expected to be challenging for promotion. 

Latics pressed high from the kick off and the Wanderers defence struggled to cope under the pressure. The hosts received five yellow cards in the first half and it could so easily have been more as they struggled to contain Taylor, Silko Thomas, Aasgaard and Jonny Smith. 

The visitors could easily have been two or three goals ahead at half-time with Sibbick, Taylor, Aasgaard and Adeeko all going close.

Its fair to say some of Latics players upped their game from recent weeks and were much improved. They must now try to maintain those high standards going forward.

Maloney’s team has had its greatest successes this season when playing on the front foot and pressing high. Against Peterborough (H), Bristol Rovers (A) and Bolton (A) they have been more attack-minded and got players into forward positions and not surprisingly this is when they have been at their most productive.

Latics must now capitalise on this confidence boosting victory with a home game against bottom club Shrewsbury Town at the Brick Community Stadium next Saturday.

Post match comments

Speaking post-game, Maloney couldn’t hide his happiness and praised the players for their immense efforts. 

“I’m very proud,” he told the media.

“I thought we were brilliant in the first half. With respect to Bolton, we should’ve been more than a goal ahead. 

“We showed character when he had to defend, we didn’t give up big chances and we showed big talent.

“This result means the world to me. This is the biggest win I’ve had since I’ve been here.

“So much has gone on – and all I want to talk about is football. What these players did today was incredible. 

“They played under big pressure. I know where Bolton are as a team, and I know where they are as a Club.

“They are constantly pushing for the top two spots, and to come here and play as we did – the players have to take absolutely every bit of credit. It was an amazing performance.”

Player ratings

Player ratings Bolton away

Player ratings courtesy of Whoscored.com

Posted in Bolton Wanderers, Dale Taylor, League One, Shaun Maloney, Thelo Aasgaard, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

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

Posted on December 12, 2024 by ianhaspinall

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.

In this new book, Hurrey, tongue-in-cheek, answers the big questions such as:

“Is it acceptable to say a player is ‘breaking their silence’ (it’s complicated), can headers be ‘lashed’(anatomically impossible), whether a penalty shootout, could ever be described as ‘late drama’ (truly abhorrent), how many games constitute a ‘bumper’ day of Premier League action (minimum of eight) and just how big a deficit constitutes ‘a mountain to climb’ (certainly not Liverpool going 1-0 down to Wolves in the third minute, Sky Sports.)”

Hurrey provides case studies of how the football media has reached saturation point – the transfer rumour mill, the futile art of big-match previewing, the rise of (and backlash against) football jargon – and how its language has evolved to keep the machine going.

The book is as gloriously pedantic as it sounds. The language of football is now more ridiculous than ever. In his first book, Hurrey wrote about the coverage of football being at saturation point, he believes we are now way beyond that.

The Battle of [Venue X] perfectly summarises the style and content of the book:

“At Old Trafford in October 2004, a mortal blow was dealt not only to Arsenal’s 49 game unbeaten Premier League run, but also to the fine tradition of football Battles of. A slice of pizza, allegedly thrown by Cesc Fabregas, struck Alex Ferguson and gave birth to both ‘The Battle of the Buffet’ – a scandalous betrayal of everything the sub-genre had built over decades – and ‘Pizzagate’, plummeted even further the bar for sparking rows to earn a gate-suffixing.”

Hurrey identifies that to answer any question in football, a truly efficient phrase has emerged:

“Five words averaging just 2.4 letters each, forming a Swiss Army Knife of a response: It is what it is. The sheer breadth of scenarios can be addressed by a sighting of IIWII is astounding. Some examples include: A defeat to your city rivals? It is what it is, we’ll go away and look at where we went wrong. An unrelenting injury crisis? I don’t want to make excuses; it is what it is.”

Football language is everywhere: in print, online, social media, radio, television, casual conversation, group chats, etc and Hurrey is the self-appointed world expert on the subject. His desire to analyse football’s unique language is clearly founded by a deep affection for it.

If you like the entertaining use of language and you like football, you’ll like this book.

Extra Time Beckons, Penalties Loom – How to Use (and Abuse) The Language of Football by Adam Hurrey. Published by Headline. Price £20.

This review first appeared in the December/January 2024/25 edition of Late Tackle magazine and Sunday 8th December edition of the Football League Paper.

Posted in Adam Hurrey, Football Book Reviews, Late Tackle magazine, Wigan Athletic | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Windswept and woeful Wigan Latics – Wigan Athletic 0 Leyton Orient 2

Posted on December 8, 2024 by ianhaspinall
Shaun Maloney looking for solutions to the slump in form
  • Wigan Athletic produced one of their worst performances of the season when they slumped to a 2-0 defeat against Leyton Orient at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • In extremely windy conditions Latics failed to fire against the well-drilled visitors.
  • Orient went ahead just before half-time when Dan Agyei got away from marker Will Aimson and crossed for Jayden Sweeney to slot home.
  • Latics rarely threatened in the second half although they did go close to an equaliser when Steven Sessegnon’s shot was parried but Jensen Weir couldn’t get to the rebound.
  • Orient sealed the three points in stoppage time when Diallang Jaiyesimi took advantage of a mix-up between Toby Sibbick and Sam Tickle to roll the ball into an empty net.
  • Latics drop to 18th and Orient move up to 16th place in the League One.

Shaun Maloney made five changes from the defeat at Huddersfield with Steven Sessegnon, Baba Adeeko, Scott Smith, Dion Rankine and Silko Thomas all coming into the starting line-up.

In very windy conditions both teams started in tentative mode.

The first opportunity fell to Latics when Dion Rankine down the right, pulled the ball back to Scott Smith on the edge of the area, but he couldn’t keep his shot down. 

Orient threatened when Sonny Perkins nearly met Jayden Sweeney’s low cross at the far post.

Tickle then did well to deny Ollie O’Neill who was played through on goal.

The visitors took the lead four minutes before the break. Agyei broke clear of Aimson and crossed for Sweeney to finish from close range.

Silko Thomas and Baba Adeeko were replaced by Callum McManaman and Thelo Aasgaard as Latics tried to get back in the game.

Latics went close when Sessegnon curled an effort towards goal from just inside the box. Goalkeeper Josh Keeley spilled the ball and Weir was denied a tap in by Sweeney at the back post.

Substitute and former Latic loanee Charlie Kelman had a great chance to seal the three points when he was played clean through, but he could only fire wide.

Aasgaard tried his luck from distance in added time, but his effort drifted just wide.

The visitors did seal the three points when in stoppage time a mix up between Sibbick and Tickle saw Jaiyesimi nip in to roll the ball into the empty net. 

Overview

This was an abject performance by Maloney’s men.

Latics were missing several players due to injury and the conditions were difficult but this is no excuse for a desperately disappointing display.

Going forward they once again lacked any cutting edge. Striker Dale Taylor was isolated and had to drop deeper and deeper to pick up the ball.

Silko Thomas rarely beat his marker, Rankine briefly threatened before having to be withdrawn due to injury. 

Substitutes McManaman, Aasgaard and Jonny Smith huffed and puffed but couldn’t make an impact.

Latics midfielders Scott Smith and Adeeko looked out of their depth. 

The normally reliable Latics defence also looked out of sorts with Aimson easily turned for the first goal and Sibbick and Tickle at fault for the second goal.

Latics young team look increasingly tired and jaded and they risk slipping into the relegation zone. 

Maloney now has to quickly re-energise his players and find the solutions to this extremely worrying slump in performances .

After Tuesday’s Vertu Trophy tie at Chesterfield, they have the small matter of a local derby at Bolton to contend with.

Post match comments 

Speaking to the media, Maloney felt his side dipped below their usual standards, particularly in their own defensive third. 

“In the first half hour, the game was absolutely fine,” he said.

“The last 15 minutes of the first half became 50/50 – there wasn’t much in it and then they scored their goal which was really disappointing.

“The second half never felt like it got going for us. We might’ve had more possession but we never looked that threatening. 

“It felt similar to Huddersfield at times, where we can have a lot of possession and get into certain areas, and we’re struggling in the final third.

“We conceded two really bad goals from our point of view. The second is horrific from that part of our defence.

“The first is just as bad for me in terms of the basics of defending. It felt like there was nothing in the game, and two really poor goals were the reason why I’m standing here not talking about a 0-0.

“We can get into the final third as many times as we want, but we look like we are struggling in the final third.

“The players were brilliant for me for three games. Huddersfield felt slightly different, and the second half today was as poor as we’ve played for a while.

“It will always be on me. It’s up to me to get the right balance in the team. I’m running out of patience – we’re here to win and we have to be an attacking threat.

“When we’re not, I expect our defensive line to be a lot stronger than what they were today.“

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Diallang Jaiyesimi, Jayden Sweeney, League One, Leyton Orient, Shaun Maloney | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics lack a cutting edge against the Terriers – Huddersfield Town 1 Wigan Athletic 0

Posted on December 4, 2024 by ianhaspinall
A frustrating night for Latics
  • Wigan Athletic fell to a 1-0 defeat by Huddersfield Town at the John Smith’s Stadium.
  • Huddersfield had an early chance when Josh Koroma fired straight at Sam Tickle.
  • Latics first opportunity came when Jonny Smith cut inside and forced a good save from Jacob Chapman before Asamoah Junior blazed over.
  • Ben Wiles crashed a free kick against the post for the hosts before Thelo Aasgaard had a 20-yard strike tipped around the post by Chapman.
  • Huddersfield broke the deadlock on 53 minutes when David Kasumu got to the byline and cut the ball back to Oliver Turton who finished past Tickle.
  • Latics tried to get back into the game with substitute Dion Rankine firing tamely at Chapman and substitute Chris Sze blazing high and wide, and overall they lacked a cutting edge.
  • Latics drop to 16th place and Huddersfield move up to fourth in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made five changes from the extra time victory at Cambridge with Luke Robinson, Matt Smith, Jensen Weir, Asamoah Jr and Jonny Smith all starting.

The Terriers Koroma had an early strike at goal, as Toby Sibbick backed off, but his effort was easily saved by Tickle.

Latics responded on 15 minutes when Jonny Smith cut in from the right and forced a save from Chapman. Asamoah Jr blazed the rebound high and wide.

Wiles then crashed a 20-yard in-swinging free-kick against the post before Koroma curled an effort over.

At the other end Aasgaard hit a half volley which was touched around the post by Chapman just before half-time.

The hosts took the lead on 53 minutes as David Kasumu got to the byline and cut the ball back to Turton who finished past Tickle inside his near post.

Josh Ruffels tested Tickle from distance with a 25-yard effort.

Maloney made a number of second half changes with substitute Callum McManaman looking particularly lively, but Latics players failed to provide him with the service he deserved.

Latics enjoyed plenty of late possession but they failed to create any clear cut opportunities with substitute Rankine shooting tamely at Chapman and substitute Sze blazing high and wide from the edge of the box.

A frustrating night for Latics at the John Smith’s Stadium.

Overview

Latics failed to maintain their winning run in a closely-fought game at promotion-chasing Huddersfield.

Captain Jason Kerr had an outstanding game and tried to push his team forward but many of the other players looked tired and jaded.

The limitations of Latics’ squad were evident at the John Smith’s Stadium.

Injuries and extra time demands at Cambridge meant the squad was stretched and many of the players did not perform at their best.

The wingers failed to create many chances and after Jonny Smith was withdrawn, chances were limited.

Aasgaard was anonymous for long periods of the game and midfielders Matt Smith and Jensen Weir failed to get any shots on target.

Dale Taylor worked tirelessly but he struggled to threaten the Terriers goal.

When substitutes Rankine and Sze got in good positions they fluffed their lines.

It has been obvious for some time that Latics need a striker who can lead the line and hold the ball up to bring others into the game.

A striker continues to be a top priority for the January transfer window.

Post match comments 

Afterwards Maloney was disappointed that his team couldn’t showcase their talent in the final third. 

“We played some good stuff – they got in a lot of dangerous areas but we didn’t make enough of that,” he told the media.

“We created a lot of one-versus-one chances and opportunities to cross, but our levels were lower (than in previous games) in the final third.

“In previous games, our wingers have had a big impact and I can’t be too critical. It’s disappointing because I thought it was there for us tonight.

“We got in certain areas and didn’t take advantage. In fairness to the lads, they kept pushing. 

“Huddersfield are a good side. I really wanted us to take something from that game.

“The lads kept trying. It’s a brilliant place to play and Huddersfield are a good club. 

“One thing I would say is I’d like to see more belief that we can come to places like this – really play – and show the talent we have.

“I don’t think some of the lads did themselves justice tonight. They’ve got a lot of talent.”

Speaking post-game, Maloney also provided an update on Tyrese Francois, who underwent successful surgery yesterday. 

“He had his surgery, and the rough estimate is 16 weeks, which takes us to the start of April.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if he’s back quicker. He’s got an amazing mentality. We’ll miss him because he was really turning into a key player.

“We’ll take our time with him and not see him for a few months.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com

Posted in Huddersfield Town, League One, Oliver Turton, Shaun Maloney | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics late late show secures third round spot – Cambridge United 1 Wigan Athletic 2 FA Cup 2nd round (AET)

Posted on December 1, 2024 by ianhaspinall
Latics on the attack
  • Wigan Athletic left it until the 119th minute of extra time to overcome Cambridge United 2-1 at the Cledara Stadium in the FA Cup 2nd round tie.
  • Cambridge took the lead in the 77th minute when substitute Brandon Njoku broke free and fired past Sam Tickle.
  • Latics responded with an equaliser in the 85th minute. Thelo Aasgaard producing a neat first touch in the box before slotting through a defender’s legs and past Vicente Reyes.
  • Both sides had chances to go and win the game but with penalties looming a cross from substitute Jonny Smith evaded everyone and settled the tie in Latics’ favour.

Shaun Maloney made three changes from the midweek victory against Northampton with Baba Adeeko, Scott Smith and Dion Rankine coming into the starting line-up, replacing Jensen Weir, Matt Smith and Jonny Smith. 

Former Latics players Kell Watts and Jordan Cousins were in the starting XI for the hosts.

The hosts tried for an early opener with Sullay Kaikai testing Tickle from inside the box.

Ryan Loft then fired an effort straight at Tickle.

Despite a strong start by Cambridge, Latics stood firm under the early pressure.

Aasgaard had an effort on target well blocked and on another occasion fired wide.

But neither side created any clear cut chances in the first half.

Latics started the second half more aggressively and pushed forward. Taylor cut in on his left foot and fired an effort straight at Vicente Reyes.

Maloney made two changes on 56 minutes with Jonny Smith and Malaece Asamoah Junior replacing Rankine and Silko-Thomas and the two substitutes combined as Smith curled Asamoah’s pass inches over the crossbar.

Latics should’ve been ahead on 59 minutes when Taylor raced clear of the chasing defenders but the Nottingham Forest loanee was denied by the legs of Reyes.

At the other end Korey Smith put an effort wide and then Tickle brilliantly denied former Latic Kell Watts with a spectacular diving save to his right.

Cambridge took the lead on 77 minutes as a long ball was headed on by Shane Lavery to Njoku who was in behind and placed the ball past Tickle.

Latics responded seven minutes later as a Jonny Smith cross from the right found Aasgaard, he took a neat touch and slotted the ball through a defender’s legs and past Reyes.

Neither side could make the decisive breakthrough in normal time and an extra 30 minutes was required.

Early in the first half of extra time Asamoah Junior had a low shot on the turn well saved by Reyes.

Lavery headed wide early in the second half of extra time. 

Njoku then fired over from a narrow angle before Tickle came to Latics rescue again with another important save from Korey Smith.

Latics got the late winner in the 119th minute of extra time as Jonny Smith cut in from the right, crossed and the ball evaded everyone but found the corner of the net.

It was a pleasing ending for the 327 Latics travelling supporters who had made the 374 mile round trip to Cambridge.

Latics had deservedly progressed to the FA Cup third round where they will hope to get a favourable draw.

Jonny Smith gives his shirt to a fan at the end of the match

Overview

This was a confidence boosting victory at a ground where they have struggled recently.

Cambridge are a difficult team to defeat at home and they have been on a good run recently.

This was a characterful performance by Maloney’s men as they had to come from behind to progress in what was a physical battle at times.

Latics were generally solid defensively with Will Aimson and Jason Kerr impressive and Tickle pulling off a couple of spectacular saves.

Going forward Latics struggled to create any clear cut chances in the first half but they were much better when Jonny Smith came on in the second half. The likeable scouser is currently the Tics most creative attacking option.

Smith was a constant threat down the right, firing just over the crossbar, putting in some dangerous crosses and scoring the winning goal with a deceptive cross.

Latics are now on a three match winning run and confidence will be high but they will face their stiffest test at promotion chasing Huddersfield on Tuesday night.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media afterwards Maloney was delighted and naturally spoke highly of his players who showed incredible fighting spirit. 

“It was an amazing result for us,” he told the media.

“It’s a place where we really find hard to come away with anything – and it was a proper cup tie.

“When we went one down, the resilience of the players was really good. I am very happy. 

“Normally when we’ve been here, we were down early. It was tough conditions for both sets of players, and we had lots of chances to score more.

“Today, I can’t say anything negative about the players. I thought we were brilliant. 

“We want to win the next round. It’s amazing that we’re in that hat because this is a really difficult ground for us to come and we finally managed to win.”

Over 300 supporters made the long trip to the Cledara Abbey Stadium, and Maloney was thrilled to finally send them home happy. 

“They’ve come twice here before with me and gone away after we’ve not looked close to winning the game.

“I appreciate the support. At 1-0 down, we needed them, and they were brilliant. I’m so glad I gave them a victory here because it’s been tough travelling here in the last couple of games.”

Posted in Brandon Njoku, Cambridge United, FA Cup, Jonny Smith, Shaun Maloney, Thelo Aasgaard | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Latics clinch narrow victory in a game of two halves – Wigan Athletic 2 Northampton Town 1

Posted on November 27, 2024 by ianhaspinall
Jonny Smith produced a superb strike
  • Wigan Athletic narrowly defeated Northampton Town 2-1 at the Brick Community Stadium in a thrilling game of two halves.
  • Latics dominated the first half and could’ve been four or five goals ahead by half time.
  • Thelo Aasgaard opened the scoring on 11 minutes and Jonny Smith doubled the lead on 18 minutes curling home a superb strike from 25-yards.
  • Jonny Smith tormented the Cobblers defence in the first half and might’ve had a hat-trick himself. Dale Taylor had a strike just over and Jensen Weir had an effort cleared off the line.
  • However, the second half was a different affair and the Cobblers got back in the game when substitute Tom Eaves finished at the back post.
  • Liam McCarron had a great chance to level when clean through but Sam Tickle did very well to save.
  • In stoppage time, Tickle again came to the rescue, as he diverted a dangerous effort away with his foot before making a miraculous save to deny substitute Sam Hoskins.
  • Latics move up to 15th place and Northampton drop to 18th in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made three changes to the side that won at Barnsley, with Jensen Weir, Matt Smith, and Jonny Smith replacing Tyrese Francois, Baba Adeeko and Dion Rankine.

Latics started on the front foot and forced successive corners inside the first few minutes with Jonny Smith looking particularly dangerous down the right. 

The hosts first effort at goal came in the 10th minute when Silko Thomas cut inside and fired over.

A minute later and Latics were ahead. Taylor made a clever turn and slipped in Aasgaard who was through on goal. Aasgaard advanced and found corner of the net, via the hand of the goalkeeper.

The hosts were in dominant mode and they doubled their lead just seven minutes later as Jonny Smith picked the ball up on the edge of the box, cut inside and curled a stunning strike into the top corner.

It should’ve been three on 32 minutes when after great work by Toby Sibbick, Weir’s effort was cleared off the line.

Jonny Smith fired over on the volley at the back post before he cut in again on his left foot, but this time fired straight at the goalkeeper.

Latics really should’ve been out of sight by half time.

Northampton had rarely threatened in the first half although Mitch Pinnock volleyed well over in stoppage time.

The second half was a completely different affair as the visitors came out strongly.

Latics had a great chance to increase their lead when Weir got on the end of Sibbick’s cut back wide but he fired wide.

Northampton reduced the arrears on 56 minutes when a deep cross found substitute Tom Eaves at the back post and he fired past Tickle from close range.

The visitors then had a big chance to draw level with five minutes remaining when Will Aimson miss hit a back pass but Liam McCarron was denied by Tickle when one on one.

At the other end, Aasgaard from 20-yards nearly found the bottom corner but the Cobblers goalkeeper Lee Burge did well to save.

Latics were struggling to hold on and Tickle once again came to Latics rescue first saving with his feet and then producing a full length save to deny Sam Hoskins.

A game of two halves which few people could’ve predicted at half time.

A second consecutive victory for Latics but they had once again done it the hard way with a disappointing second half performance.

Overview

Maloney’s men should’ve been out of sight by half time after creating so many good chances with Jonny Smith in fantastic form.

A very patchy second half display meant Latics might’ve drawn or even lost the game as Northampton created several good goal scoring opportunities.

Sam Tickle saved Latics blushes in what would’ve been a devastating blow to their confidence if they had lost.

At the current time Latics often produce a good first half or second half performance but rarely do they produce a full 90 minute performance.

Maloney has a very young and inexperienced squad but if they are to become a good team they must learn to maintain the highest standards for the full duration of the game.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media, Shaun Maloney praised his side for their electric first-half display and for how they adapted to the momentum change in the second 45 following Tom Eaves’ goal. 

“The first half was as good as any performance that we’ve had,” he said.

“We were brilliant, and created enough chances to kill the game off. 

“I knew in the second half that Northampton Town would be more aggressive, and they really tried to hurt us with the long ball.

“It was tough, but the lads stood up. When they scored, it changed the momentum of the game. You’re never completely comfortable, but I thought we defended the long ball well. 

“I am really happy with the first half, and it’s now onto Saturday.”

After consecutive victories in the league, Latics will turn their attention to the Emirates FA Cup.  Maloney’s men will be determined to right the wrongs of their last two trips to the Cledara Abbey Stadium and progress into the Third Round of the competition. 

“The next game means the world to us in terms of the FA Cup. It’ll mean the exact same to Cambridge – we know what’s on the line.

“It’s a place we’ve struggled before but I’m not going to take a step back with how we play. Let’s see what we have – the FA Cup brings about special days – and hopefully Saturday is one for us.”

Player ratings 

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com

Posted in Jonny Smith, League One, Northampton Town, Shaun Maloney, Thelo Aasgaard | Tagged , , , , , | 5 Comments

Latics hang on for important victory – Barnsley 0 Wigan Athletic 1

Posted on November 23, 2024 by ianhaspinall
Thelo Aasgaard headed Tics ahead
  • Wigan Athletic produced their first away victory since September with 1-0 victory at high-flying Barnsley.
  • Latics dominated possession in the first half and deservedly went ahead when Thelo Aasgaard headed home Silko Thomas’ cross on 42 minutes.
  • They started the second half strongly with Aasgaard volleying over but Barnsley gradually started to dominate and Latics slipped into defensive mode.
  • The Tykes forced a succession of corners and despite nine minutes of added time Latics held on for an impressive three points.
  • Latics move up to 17th place and Barnsley remain in sixth place

Maloney made four changes from the 1-0 defeat to Wycombe, with Steven Sessegnon, Baba Adeeko, Dion Rankine and Dale Taylor coming into the starting line-up at Oakwell replacing Luke Robinson, Matt Smith, Scott Smith and Jonny Smith.

Latics started confidently and came close to opening the scoring on eight minutes when Thomas cut inside and curled an effort narrowly wide of the far post.

At the other end a sloppy back pass by Sessegnon nearly gave the Tykes an opportunity but Sam Tickle was able to avert the danger.

Latics enjoyed the lion’s share of possession and they deservedly went ahead on 42 minutes.

Thomas beat his marker down the left and crossed perfectly for Aasgaard who headed home from 10 yards out.

Tyrese Francois had to be withdrawn due to injury just before half-time and was replaced by Scott Smith.

Latics started the second half on the front foot with Aasgaard volleying over from the edge of the box.

The hosts Davis Keillor-Dunn had an effort saved by Tickle, before Aasgaard fired over again .

Former Latics Stephen Humphrys was relatively subdued and apart from a deflected effort rarely threatened Tickle.

The Tykes Marc Roberts however was denied by a brilliant Aimson block. Aimson then somehow blocked Donovan Pines effort on the line which looked destined to find the net.

The hosts pressure continued as they forced a succession of corners in the last 15 minutes. Substitute and former Latic Sam Cosgrove had a header comfortably saved by Tickle.

Latics had to endure nine added minutes and Roberts headed wide a Barnsley corner, before Fabio Jalo curled an effort straight at Tickle. 

Aimson once again blocked a goal-bound Barnsley effort as Latics held out for an important three points on the road.

Overview

Latics deservedly secured their first away victory since the 4-0 at Bristol Rovers on 14 September. 

The visitors were well organised and Silko Thomas posed a threat down the flank. The defence was once again solid with Tickle, Kerr and Aimson all excellent.

Barnsley did not look like a top six team who were unbeaten in five games but the conditions weren’t conducive to great football.

Latics had been the better team for most of the game but they retreated into defence for the last 25 minutes which could’ve proved costly if they had not defended resolutely.

Also Maloney’s decision to use all his substitutes with nearly 20 minutes remaining was a risky strategy with Baba Adeeko struggling with an injury but fortunately they weren’t to be punished.

Latics are still struggling for goals but they must now try to capitalise on the result with another three points against Northampton Town at the Brick Community Stadium on Tuesday night.

Post match comments 

Speaking post-game to the media, Shaun Maloney couldn’t hide his delight after his team navigated the torrential conditions and ended Barnsley’s five-game unbeaten run in Sky Bet League One.

“It was very pleasing,” he said. 

“We had to show both sides today – and I think anyone who was at the game knew how difficult of a day it was to play football in.

“I’m really pleased, and the goal we scored was amazing. It was everything we want to be as a Club and everything we have been as a Club. That’s what we’re trying to do.

“We were good in the first half. We were aggressive and definitely played forward. Thelo (Aasgaard) gets into these positions, and in today’s game, he was clinical. 

“We looked really dangerous. The biggest and most important part was putting the ball in the back of the net.

“Today’s performance had everything. It had intent and bravery, and the talent they showed for the goal was amazing.

“The last 20 minutes – we had to deal with long balls and set plays – and we had to bring on more people. A special mention to Baba Adeeko who was outstanding today.

“The conditions dictated the team selection late on, and I knew we would have to play under pressure. 

“When we do certain things right, we can compete against anyone. I need the same mentality on Tuesday – we’ll have to be at our very best to give ourselves a chance.”

Latics were backed from the first whistle to the last at Oakwell, and the Gaffer couldn’t thank the travelling supporters enough for their efforts. 

“They were amazing. I know where we are in the table, and I know the previous games have been difficult.

“Even before the game, they sang my name. It’s amazing – they can see what we are trying to do.

“They’ve seen everything in the last three or four years, but I think they know they’ve got a group of players giving absolutely everything for them.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Barnsley, League One, Shaun Maloney | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments