Youth team punished for defensive lapses
Latics under-18's were punished for defensive lapses as they lost 3-2 to Blackpool at Chapel Road in the Football League Youth Alliance's North West Conference.All three of the Seasiders' goals came from corners which Latics failed to defend.
Latics took the lead through Haydn Foulds as he scored following a goalmouth scramble from a corner.
Blackpool hit back to establish a 2-1 interval lead with both goals following corners.
Coach Tony Philliskirk admitted there were some "choice words" at half half.
Latics made a bright start to the second half and made it 2-2 through a Jordan Bove penalty which was awarded after John Pritchard's cross was handled.
Blackpool regained the lead from yet another corner Latics failed to defend.
Latics finished the stronger side and were unlucky not to equalise when Michael Brewster's shot hit the inside of the upright, bounced along the line and also struck the other post.
Philliskirk, who was without his best under-16 players who were playing for Greater Manchester against Essex in the semi finals of the national schools' knockout, described it as disappointing following promising performances in their last two matches.
He said too many players had off days adding defender Jack Truelove (pictured) was the only player to stand out.