Philliskirk praise for youngsters
Head of Youth Tony Philliskirk praised his battling under-18's as a patched-up Latics defeated Accrington Stanley 2-0 in the first round of the FA Youth Cup.Philliskirk, who was without five regulars, was delighted how his side ground out their win.
"Under the circumstances, I was pleased how we played and thought we were always comfortable and shaded the game," he said.
Philliskirk (pictured) was especially pleased with his side's defensive display with Joe Cooper and schoolboy Ryan Ellison commanding at the heart of the back line.
Cooper was returning after a lengthy lay off and only resumed training two days earlier.
Philliskirk was also happy with John Pritchard and Jack Poxon in the middle while striker Carlton McIntosh caused problems and won the penalty for their opening goal.
He was also pleased how the set piece paid off for Jack Truelove's goal which clinched victory.
He continued: "Had we taken more care of the ball in the final third of the pitch, we could have had more goals.
"We were let down by the final pass or cross."
Philliskirk added that the second-round tie against Coventry City will be a challenge as it will be their Centre of Excellence against the Sky Blues' Academy.
"We were let down by the final pass or cross."
Philliskirk added that the second-round tie against Coventry City will be a challenge as it will be their Centre of Excellence against the Sky Blues' Academy.
"It will be a tough ask but, hopefully by then, we will have one or two of our regulars back," he concluded.