Aasgaard’s magic gives the ten-men Tics a deserved victory – Stevenage 1 Wigan Athletic 2

Posted on January 19, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Aasgaard scores a superb free-kick for the Tics.
  • Wigan Athletic overcame Stevenage 2-1 with a sublime Thelo Aasgaard free-kick in the 95th minute at the Lamex Stadium.
  • Latics had gone ahead when substitute Dale Taylor bundled the ball home from Jensen Weir’s free-kick on 55 minutes.
  • Latics were mystified on 73 minutes when Weir was issued with a straight red card, for a trip on Louis Thompson by referee Jacob Miles, for what was a yellow card offence.
  • The hosts equalised on 83 minutes when Dan Kemp volleyed home after Dan Sweeney’s cushioned header presented him with the chance.
  • In stoppage time Taylor was brought down by Louis Thompson who was issued with a second yellow card and dismissed. Aasgaard stepped up and curled a superb free-kick from 22 yards, over the wall and into the top corner.
  • Latics are now in 17th place and Stevenage in 15th place in the League One table.

Shaun Maloney made four changes from FA Cup victory at Mansfield with James Carragher, Silko Thomas, Joe Hungbo and new signing Will Goodwin coming into the starting line-up in place of Jason Kerr, Michael Olakigbe, Jonny Smith and Taylor.

Latics started strongly winning two corners, from the first Jensen Weir went close.

At the other end Kane Smith headed over a Stevenage corner. 

Aasgaard then linked up with Goodwin, the Oxford loanee missing a great opportunity when he curled his effort high and wide of the far post.

Jamie Reid fired over and Nathan Thompson had an effort drift just wide of Sam Tickle’s far post following a corner.

Tickle then made a brilliant save to deny the hosts on 26 minutes after a back pass from Will Aimson, he was quick to dive at Reid’s feet before he could score.

Referee Jacob Miles was having a very poor game awarding free-kicks for innocuous challenges and then not awarding free-kicks for blatant fouls.

In a disjointed first-half the referee had been the major villain for Latics’ fans.

Taylor replaced Goodwin at the break after a disappointing first half.

The visitors threatened first with Sibbick testing Murphy Cooper with a deflected effort from the edge of the box.

Latics were better at the start of the half and they went ahead on 55 minutes.  Weir’s dangerous free-kick found Taylor who bundled the ball into the net at close range.

Latics were then stunned to go down to ten on 73 minutes as Weir was shown a straight red for tripping Thompson. A yellow card should’ve been the appropriate punishment.

Maloney’s men had to reorganise, make substitutions and change formation. They retreated into a more defensive formation.

Stevenage took advantage and equalised nine minutes later as Kemp volleyed past Tickle from just inside the box.

Latics played on the break and Aasgaard tested Cooper from 25-yards with a free-kick as the game went into eight minutes of added time.

In stoppage time Taylor broke forward and was brought down by Louis Thompson who was issued with a second yellow card and dismissed. 

Aasgaard stepped up and curled a superb free-kick from 22 yards, over the wall and into the top corner to the delight of the Tics fans behind the goal.

Taylor put the Tics in front from Weir’s free-kick

Overview

This game was so nearly spoiled by an incompetent referee. Jacob Miles was clearly out of his depth refereeing a League One fixture. His decision-making was erratic and very confusing to everyone watching. 

His decision to issue a straight red card to Weir for a yellow card offence could’ve resulted in an undeserved defeat for Latics.

Fortunately this didn’t happen as Thelo Aasgaard once again produced a moment of the highest quality, curling a superb free-kick into the top corner of the net.

Aasgaard’s stock is rising and his recent performances will have alerted more clubs about his value.

It would be great to think he will stay with Latics for a little longer. An improved contract to tempt him wouldn’t go amiss.

Post match comments

Speaking to the media post-game, Maloney expressed that the win was purely down to the effort and mentality of his players.

“Every time we come here, it’s eventful,” Maloney smiled.

“It’s a massive win for us. The fans could sense that with our reaction at the end.

“We had to dig in when we went down to ten men. They scored and Thelo (Aasgaard) then produced another big moment. Dale (Taylor) and Thelo were the standouts for us. 

“The rest of the team were brilliant. Up until the sending off, I really liked the second half.  That was down to the players – they knew what we had to do and they showed great bravery.

“These types of games are what we struggled with last year. Today was tough – and what the players showed me was incredible. The players deserve everything.”

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Dale Taylor, League One, Shaun Maloney, Stevenage, Thelo Aasgaard | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

Aasgaard shines as Latics progress in the FA Cup – Mansfield Town 0 Wigan Athletic 2 (FA Cup 3rd Round)

Posted on January 15, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Thelo Aasgaard Wigan Athletic

Thelo Aasgaard scored a brace. Photograph courtesy of Wigan Athletic

  • Thelo Aasgaard scored a brace as Wigan Athletic progressed to the fourth round of the FA Cup with a 2-0 victory against Mansfield Town at the One Call Stadium.
  • Mansfield had marginally the better of the first half with Matthew Craig and Stephen McLaughlin going close and Jonny Smith hitting a post for Latics.
  • Latics went ahead early in the second half when Aasgaard headed home from the centre of the box from Jonny Smith’s cross.
  • The visitors doubled their lead on 54 minutes when Aasgaard found the top corner of the Mansfield net with a wonder strike from 20 yards.
  • The hosts applied late pressure but Latics held out and now have a home tie in the fourth round against Premier League Fulham.

Shaun Maloney made one change from the home defeat to Birmingham City with Luke Robinson replacing the injured Steven Sessegnon.

The hosts pressed high from the kick off and Latics struggled to make much headway in the opening 15 minutes of the game.

The hosts had three half chances in the opening half hour with Hiram Boateng and Matthew Craig firing straight at Sam Tickle and Stephen McLaughlin testing Tickle with a low strike.

Probably the best chance of the half fell to Jonny Smith who was played in by a long goal kick, cut inside and his effort grazed the outside of the post.

Maloney’s men gradually started to gain a foothold and enjoyed more possession as the half progressed.

Latics were quickly out of the traps in the second half and went ahead on 48 minutes as Jonny Smith’s cross from the right found Aasgaard free inside the box and he headed home from seven yards out.

It was 2-0 just six minutes later when Aasgaard produced a strike of the highest quality. He picked the ball up deep, drove forward and curled a wonderful strike into top corner from just outside the box.

The visitors should have been three up on 58 minutes as Michael Olakigbe crossed for Dale Taylor, but the striker’s low effort was saved by Christy Pym.

Latics had to contend with late Mansfield pressure and a succession of corners but they held out to progress to the fourth round and home tie against Premier League Fulham.

Overview 

After a difficult first half in which Mansfield pressed high Latics gradually got into their stride and Aasgaard’s quality shone through.

The highly rated midfielder had one of his best games in a Latics shirt scoring two goals of the highest quality. The first a powerful header from seven yards out and the second an unstoppable strike from 20 yards.

Latics had been defensively strong but it was Aasgaard’s quality that proved to be the difference between the two sides. The young Norwegian Under 21 International is Latics leading goal scorer with 11 goals including three in the FA Cup. 

The big worry now for the club is that this performance will have aroused further interest from Championship clubs and he could be in high demand in the transfer window.

Latics will not want to lose one of their best players at this stage of the season, but unfortunately money talks in football and if the right fee is agreed he will leave.

Post match comments

Afterwards Maloney was full of praise for his players for their professional performance.

“The full team in the second half was brilliant,” he told the media.

“Individually, Thelo’s talent came to the fore tonight, and he has been doing that all season. 

“Thelo took the game away from Mansfield, but in fairness, in the first half our back four kept us in it. 

“Mansfield were more dominant in the first 20 minutes, but in the second half, we improved in everything. What Thelo did tonight was special.

“Mansfield have some good players and we weren’t quite at it in the first half. The players were brilliant in the second half, even when we had to defend deeper at times. It’s been a really good night.”

350 supporters made the midweek trip to the One Call Stadium, and Maloney expressed his delight to have sent the travelling Tics home happy.

“Our away support is brilliant. They are extremely supportive and have got me through some dark moments. 

“It was not easy to come tonight, but they got to see two amazing goals. We’re back in the Fourth Round – and it’s brilliant for the Club.”

Posted in FA Cup, Mansfield Town, Shaun Maloney | Tagged , , , , | 5 Comments

Latics outplayed by the Blues after bright start – Wigan Athletic 0 Birmingham City 3

Posted on January 5, 2025 by ianhaspinall
Shaun Maloney’s team started well
  • Birmingham City moved back to the top of League One with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Wigan Athletic at the Brick Community Stadium.
  • Latics had three good chances in the opening 15 minutes. First when Jonny Smith’s shot took a big deflection and Ryan Allsop saved with his feet. Scott Smith fired narrowly wide and then Jonny Smith forced another Allsop save at full stretch.
  • The visitors went ahead with their first attack. Alfie May finishing from inside the box after Sam Tickle could only parry a cross into his path in the 18th minute.
  • Birmingham doubled their lead on the half-hour mark when Paik Seung-ho played a superb pass to Ethan Laird down the right, and his cross was tapped home by May.
  • Latics almost pulled a goal back when Michael Olakigbe struck the post with Allsop beaten.
  • But Willum Willumsson made it 3-0 for the visitors in the 61st minute after being set up by Laird.
  • Latics drop to 17th place and Birmingham move two points clear at the top of League One.

Shaun Maloney made one change from the starting XI which lost at Wrexham with Jensen Weir replacing the injured Baba Adeeko.

Latics started on the front foot and had a big opportunity inside the first three minutes as Jonny Smith’s deflected volley looked destined for the net but Allsop saved with his legs.

Jonny Smith tried his luck again one minute later as he cut inside from the right and forced another great save from Allsop, diving full stretch to his left.

Scott Smith fired wide as Latics continued the early onslaught.

Michael Olakigbe’s cross then went through to Jonny Smith who curled a third effort narrowly wide of the far post.

The visitors went ahead with their first attack. Alfie May finishing from inside the box after Sam Tickle could only parry a cross into his path in the 18th minute. 

Birmingham doubled their lead on the half-hour when Paik Seung-ho played a superb pass to Laird down the right, and his cross was tapped home by May.

Latics almost pulled a goal back just before half-time when Michael Olakigbe struck the post with Allsop beaten.

The visitors made it three on 61 minutes as Laird crossed for Willumsson who was free inside the box and fired low past Tickle.

Weir tried his luck from 25 yards with a free-kick which was easily gathered by Allsop.

Late on Jason Kerr had an effort cleared off the line but by then it was obvious that it wasn’t going to be Latics day.

Overview 

Latics were left to rue their early missed chances as Birmingham took control following the first goal and their quality shone through.

Birmingham have assembled a £30m plus squad and they are very likely to be promoted back to the Championship.

Latics are a team in transition made up mainly of Academy graduates, free transfers and loan players.

The contrast between the two clubs on the pitch resources is currently huge so this result was not totally unexpected.

Latics have received devastating news on the injuries to our midfield.

Latics are already without Tyrese Francois and now Matt Smith has had surgery on a hamstring injury and will be out for around 16 weeks.

It was also confirmed that fellow central midfielder Baba Adeeko will be out until March with an injury.

Latics have recruited Josh Robinson, Joe Hungbo and loan striker Will Goodwin to the squad so far in the transfer window but they will now also need to add a midfielder.

Post match comments

Speaking post-game to the media, Maloney expressed the importance of being more clinical in the final third and improving collectively in both boxes. 

“It was a difficult one,” he said.

“We were very good in the first half but were 2-0 down. The difference in the first half was how clinical they were in the box.

“We had enough chances and a lot of shots in the first half. In fairness to them, they have a brilliant striker in Alfie May.

“I really liked how we played in the first half. With the history of the Club, we have to go toe-to-toe. 

“My feeling at this Club is we have to go toe-to-toe with these Clubs and get better at what we’re doing.

“The game was decided in both boxes. Alfie May is a brilliant finisher and the difference in this game.

“In the first 20 minutes, we dominated, and even after they scored, we kept hurting them in certain areas.

“When we play like that, we have to be more clinical in the box. I can’t really be negative – we’ve lost the game 3-0 but went toe-to-toe. 

“In the last 15-20 minutes, you could see we were starting to tire. In fairness to the players, they never stopped going.

“I loved how we played in the first half. We just have to get better in those attacking areas. 

“If we were more clinical, this game would’ve been completely different. They (Birmingham) are a brilliant team, and in the big critical moments, they were better than us.” 

Player ratings

Player ratings courtesy of WhoScored.com
Posted in Alfie May, League One, Shaun Maloney | Tagged , , , , , | 5 Comments

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

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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