Delighted Latics boss John Sheridan praised his side's response to last week's defeat at Swindon after they ran out 2-0 winners against Leyton Orient.

First-half goals from Chris Taylor and Deane Smalley were enough to ease Athletic to their ninth home League win of the campaign.

And there were excellent performances all over the park as Latics bounced back to winning ways after a disappointing day at the County Ground.

Sheridan told Latics World: "I thought we were excellent, particularly in the first half.

"The performance was very pleasing -- we played some very good football and moved the ball around quickly.

"We were dominating the game from early on and were getting plenty of balls into the box, so I was always confident we'd score.

"Mark [Allott] produced an excellent finish for the second goal while Deane [Smalley] did very well for the first.

"He showed a lot of intelligence by squaring the ball and Chris Taylor tucked it away nicely."

With the play-offs all but out of reach, Sheridan declared his intention to experiment and took the opportunity to tinker with his system.

Deane Smalley was moved into a more central position alongside Matty Wolfenden up front, with Neal Eardley behind them in midfield.

Sean Gregan resumed a central defensive berth, with Reuben Hazell rounding off the alterations by taking up a role on the right-hand side of the back four.

"I haven't got a lot to pick from so full credit to the players," Sheridan added.

"Neal Eardley looked comfortable in midfield, while Deane Smalley did well playing through the middle and linked up well with Matty Wolfenden.

"The front two caused Orient a lot of problems and they played very well together, while Andy Liddell and Sean Gregan bring experience and stability.

"We were so much on top we had to make sure we didn't get complacent in the second half -- but we carried on creating chances.

"I'm very pleased with the way we played throughout the game."

Sheridan and his side now have a maximum of nine points left to play for, starting with next week's trip to Northampton.

They then host Cheltenham Town for the final home game of the season before travelling to Crewe on May 3.