Last-gasp win for under-18's
Tomos Clarke scored a last-minute winner as Latics under-18's defeated Walsall 1-0 at Chapel Road in the Football League Youth Alliance's North West Conference.The central defender (pictured) struck the all-important goal which saw Latics leapfrog the Saddlers into second spot as they overturned their 4-0 defeat at Walsall early in the campaign.
The match was played in difficult conditions and in the opening period Latics played against the wind. They defended resolutely as each side cancelled out the other.
Latics conceded a penalty early in the second half, but the kick was blazed over the crossbar.
It was an uphill battle for Latics in the last half hour when they were reduced to 10 players following the dismissal of Devante Jacobs for retaliating to a foul.
Jordan Bove had a chance to win the game for Latics but shot over.
With the game looking to end goalless, Latics snatched a winner at the death.
Jack Tuohy's corner brought about a goalmouth scramble and Clarke scored with a shot following a neat turn in the box.
Academy Manager Tony Philliskirk was delighted with the win describing Walsall as the strongest side the youth team had faced this season.
"We defended ever so well, especially after going down to 10 men, and it was a fantastic result," he declared.