Wigan recover from weekend defeat as they progress in Carabao Cup

Wigan Athletic 1 - 0 Notts County

Wigan booked their place in the second round of the Carabao Cup with a closer win over Notts County at the Brick Community Stadium.

Author | Amy W

Stadium | The Brick Community Stadium

View from the stands.

It was the perfect response for head coach Ryan Lowe after the disappointment in the capital at the weekend, with Latics bouncing back in front of their own supporters. Paul Mullin scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 10th minute, sealing Wigan’s first appearance in the second round since the 2021-22 season.

A closer look at what happened

Wigan’s evening was soured just before the half-hour mark when on-loan Liverpool defender Isaac Mabaya was stretchered off with what appeared to be a serious lower leg injury.

Notts County enjoyed the majority of possession in the first half but struggled to trouble Sam Tickle in the Wigan goal. That changed after the break when Kellan Gordon surged into the box, only to be denied by an excellent stop from the Latics goalkeeper. Moments later, Tickle was down smartly to hold a low effort from Tom Iorpenda.

READ MORE | Wigan Athletic have first defeat of the season

The visitors came closest when substitute Matty Dennis beat Tickle with a low strike, but his effort struck the inside of the post and bounced clear. Wigan defended with determination to see out the result and now turn their attention back to league matters, with Peterborough United visiting the Brick Community Stadium on Saturday 16 August 2025.

Which players impressed for the home side?

Jensen Weir

Perhaps a surprise choice to play at the heart of the defence. However, he acquitted himself very well and drew high praise from the manager after the game. Paul, a Wigan fan, said: “I thought Weir was our best player on the night.”

Tobias Brenan

Despite being new to this level, he continues to appear as if he has been playing at this level for years. The player thoroughly deserved his standing ovation when substituted. A player who has the potential to be key for Wigan this season. Paul added: “Brenan was superb, seems like a great lad as well.”

Empty seats a concern?

How do Wigan fill these stands?

Nobody likes endless discussion and ‘banter’ about attendances, but this win over Notts County was played in front of just 2,907 supporters, a figure that underlines the challenge facing the club. Times are tough for many fans, with travel costs and ticket prices adding to the strain, but such low attendances will concern those in charge. The club must explore fresh ways to attract more people through the turnstiles, ensuring the team’s efforts on the pitch are matched by backing in the stands.