Under-18's inflict Wrexham's first defeat
Depleted Latics under-18's produced their best performance of the season as they recorded a 2-0 home victory against unbeaten Wrexham in the Football League Youth Alliance's North West Conference.It was a case of Latics, without seven regular players, overcoming adversity after a display in which their effort and endeavour could not be faulted as was their desire to do the ugly things necessary to win games.
Indeed but for a penalty miss and other wasted chances, Latics could and should have won by a wider margin than the 2-0 which was earned by goals from Jack Truelove and Luke Wandless.
It was still a great workout before Wednesday's FA Youth Cup tie against Coventry City.
Latics' preparations could not have been worse as the mini bus broke down forcing the players to travel to Chapel Road by car.
Midfield man Jack Poxon was then involved in a road accident which shook up all four players in the vehicle.
Latics took the lead midway through the opening period through Truelove.
He was released by Carlton McIntosh's back flick and saw his initial shot saved before reacting first to slot home the rebound.
Latics doubled their lead late in the half when McIntosh broke and saw his shot parried with Wandless, following up, pouncing on the loose ball to score.
McIntosh (pictured) had a couple of gilt-edged chance and Wandless also went close while another effort was cleared of the line as Latics could have scored a hatful in the first 45 minutes.
Latics had to weather a storm from Wrexham early in the second half before reimposing their authority.
McIntosh went close on two occasions, one effort hitting the top of the crossbar.
The striker was dynamite as he also earned Latics a penalty with Wandless's spot kick well saved and the striker firing the rebound over the bar.
Head of Youth Tony Philliskirk was delighted with his side's display saying: "It could easily have been four or five goals.
"There was effort, determination and a willingness to do the ugly side.
"The back four didn't give an inch, the midfield dominated and the front three were a handful.
"It was a big win as Wrexham were unbeaten in the league and it puts us in good spirits for Wednesday."
Latics took the lead midway through the opening period through Truelove.
He was released by Carlton McIntosh's back flick and saw his initial shot saved before reacting first to slot home the rebound.
Latics doubled their lead late in the half when McIntosh broke and saw his shot parried with Wandless, following up, pouncing on the loose ball to score.
McIntosh (pictured) had a couple of gilt-edged chance and Wandless also went close while another effort was cleared of the line as Latics could have scored a hatful in the first 45 minutes.
Latics had to weather a storm from Wrexham early in the second half before reimposing their authority.
McIntosh went close on two occasions, one effort hitting the top of the crossbar.
The striker was dynamite as he also earned Latics a penalty with Wandless's spot kick well saved and the striker firing the rebound over the bar.
Head of Youth Tony Philliskirk was delighted with his side's display saying: "It could easily have been four or five goals.
"There was effort, determination and a willingness to do the ugly side.
"The back four didn't give an inch, the midfield dominated and the front three were a handful.
"It was a big win as Wrexham were unbeaten in the league and it puts us in good spirits for Wednesday."