Coach Tony Philliskirk was disappointed as Latics were held to a 1-1 draw by Accrington Stanley at Clitheroe in the North West Youth Alliance.

Philliskirk failed to make excuses saying he expected more from his team, even though it was again depleted.

There were players ruled out through injury while international clearance has yet to come through for the Irish and Welsh scholars so they are unable to play.

Philliskirk says he team's play lacked its usual intensity while too many of the teenagers under-achieved.

Latics took the lead early in the second half through a goal from Jack Laird. Kyle Riley won a loose ball in midfield and released Laird who rounded the keeper to score with a clinical piece of finishing.

Sadly Latics were unable to hold on to their lead and Stanley were level within 10 minutes.

Philliskirk described it as a bad goal to concede as James Tarkowski lost the ball and then keeper Shaun Routledge was beaten by an angled shot at his near post.

Latics had a couple of half chances to have snatched victory, but overall they could have no complaints with the scoreline.