Wigan Athletic start season with a win

Wigan Athletic 3 - 1 Northampton Town

Wigan began their League One campaign with an assured win over Northampton.

Author | Jamie P

Stadium | Brick Community Stadium

Pre match atmosphere

The hosts were in control from the outset and took the lead on the half-hour mark, as debutant Fraser Murray volleyed in Joseph Hungbo’s cross.

Northampton responded when Cameron McGeehan glanced a header against the outside of the post, but Wigan struck again just before the break, with Jensen Weir rising to nod home Hungbo’s corner.

Only a fine save from Lee Burge, who had earlier tipped a Murray free-kick round the post, prevented Weir from adding a third on the stroke of half-time.

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Wigan, though, wasted no time after the restart. Murray grabbed his second of the afternoon just 15 seconds into the second half to all but seal the points.

View from the stands

Northampton pulled one back with 20 minutes remaining when Michael Forbes headed in from close range. Sam Tickle was then called upon to preserve Wigan's advantage with a sharp stop to deny Elliott List.

Wigan finished the stronger of the two sides and could have added further goals, but Dara Costelloe headed wide from close range and substitute Paul Mullin was denied by Burge when clean through.

Next week, Wigan make the journey down South to face Leyton Orient with hopes of building on this start.

Best reaction

Mike Dixon, a Wigan fan, told us: "Well played, Wigan, a great start to the season for us. We probably should have had two more goals. The new signings look like they've settled in well."

Amy W, a Wigan Season Ticket holder, added: "That was an impressive performance. Attacking football has been missing for two seasons. It's early days but positive signs."

Another Latics fan added: "After two years of boring football, that was like a breath of fresh air. I know fans are excited and looking forward to a more positive season."