Wigan Athletic back to winning ways after narrow victory over Port Vale

Wigan Athletic 1 - 0 Port Vale

Wigan returned to winning ways with a narrow home victory over an in-form Port Vale side who tasted defeat for the first time in six league matches.

Author | Amy W

Stadium | The Brick Community Stadium

In the build-up to the League One clash, the Wigan manager’s message was clear: there was no time for disappointment and the team had to go again. It had been a difficult spell for Wigan, whose 3-0 win over Doncaster Rovers was followed by a run of five defeats and a draw.

A 46-game season is never straightforward, and it was up to Wigan to respond to recent setbacks in the right way. They had the chance to improve their form in front of their home supporters, facing a Port Vale side who had begun the 2025/26 League One season in a similar fashion.

The home side's fortunes appeared to worsen when striker Dara Costelloe was shown a straight red card shortly before half-time. The Irish forward had attempted an overhead kick on goal but instead caught Kyle John in the face, prompting referee Ross Martin to dismiss him.

Rather than lift the visitors, the incident seemed to galvanise Wigan, who found the breakthrough 11 minutes after the restart. Substitute Malaece Asamoah capitalised on a defensive lapse from Ronan Curtis to steer his shot past Joe Gauci with the aid of a slight deflection.

READ MORE | Stockport County maintain unbeaten run

Chances were otherwise limited. Vale’s best opening came early on when Dajaune Brown was denied by Morgan Fox as he shaped to shoot from the edge of the box, while Costelloe had seen Wigan’s best effort diverted wide before his unfortunate dismissal.

Wigan see the game out

Ten men? No problem. 😍

What a showing of character and grit from your Wigan Athletic! 💙#wafc 🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/kPgM3k2Pmm

— Wigan Athletic (@LaticsOfficial) October 18, 2025

With fewer than five minutes remaining, tension gripped the Brick Community Stadium as Mo Faal met a cross from the right, but to Wigan’s relief, the former Wrexham striker directed his header wide.

Seven minutes of added time followed, during which the Latics showed resilience, unity and determination to hold firm and secure an important victory.

An important three points for Ryan Lowe's side. Next Saturday, they travel to Mansfield Town hoping to build on this victory.