A step closer to survival for Wigan Athletic

Wigan Athletic 2 - 1 Mansfield Town

The Latics moved a step closer to preserving their League One status with a hard-earned victory over Mansfield Town

Author | Amy W

Stadium | The Brick Community Stadium

Gary Caldwell’s side appear to be finding form at a crucial stage of the season, taking seven points from their last three matches.

It was a slow start to the game from both teams

Neither side were able to impose themselves early on, but Wigan edged ahead in the 25th minute. Callum Wright cut inside before finishing neatly from inside the area after being played through by Raphael Borges Rodrigues.

Their advantage proved short-lived. Mansfield responded almost immediately, drawing level three minutes later through Lucas Akins. With little to separate the sides, the first half ended with the score finely poised at 1-1.

Wigan regained control in the 71st minute when Joe Taylor converted from the penalty spot after being fouled by Frazer Blake-Tracy inside the area.

With four games remaining, Caldwell’s team now sit five points clear of the relegation zone, offering a measure of breathing space as the season approaches its conclusion.

One fan responds to a very important win

Frank, a Wigan fan, told us: “A very tense home win against a decent side who have beaten some of the top teams this season.

"Let’s not beat about the bush, this was a very big step towards safety and you can only applaud this brilliant turnaround since Gary’s arrival.”