Baxter joy for Latics
A brilliant free kick from Jose Baxter gave Latics a first-half lead at home to Preston North End in npower League One.
The former Everton forward's strike separated the teams after an evenly contested opening period.
The former Everton forward's strike separated the teams after an evenly contested opening period.
It's amazing what a win does for confidence and self belief as Latics kicked off with a spring in their step which was absent in games during their disappointing run.
But it was Preston who had the first sniff at goal when a David Buchanan header was comfortably saved by keeper Dean Bouzanis.
Preston were the more dangerous attacking team as David Amoo had a shot deflected for a corner while Stuart Beavon blazed over when well placed.
Latics took the lead in the 27th minute from a superbly struck Baxter free kick which was curled over the defensive wall and went in off the upright.
The free kick was awarded when Cristian Montano was fouled by Jack King with the right back booked for his ill-timed challenge.
Latics were dealt a blow when James Tarkowski limped off six minutes before the break.
Connor Brown came on at right back as Reece Wabara switched to the centre of defence.
Half-time: Latics 1, Preston 0.
But it was Preston who had the first sniff at goal when a David Buchanan header was comfortably saved by keeper Dean Bouzanis.
Preston were the more dangerous attacking team as David Amoo had a shot deflected for a corner while Stuart Beavon blazed over when well placed.
Latics took the lead in the 27th minute from a superbly struck Baxter free kick which was curled over the defensive wall and went in off the upright.
The free kick was awarded when Cristian Montano was fouled by Jack King with the right back booked for his ill-timed challenge.
Latics were dealt a blow when James Tarkowski limped off six minutes before the break.
Connor Brown came on at right back as Reece Wabara switched to the centre of defence.
Half-time: Latics 1, Preston 0.