The lads are distraught and absolutely gutted says Matt
Latics' 2-1 npower League One defeat at Coventry City yesterday disappointed nobody more than Matt Smith.The 23-year-old striker (pictured) scored an 89th minute equaliser which looked as though it would earn Latics a point from their first-ever visit to the Ricoh Arena.
That was until James Bailey struck a winner for the Sky Blues in the fifth minute of stoppage time.
Smith said: "It was sickening and a very bitter pill to swallow.
"To concede with virtually the last kick of the game, after we had fought so hard to get back into the game, was awful and the lads are distraught and absolutely gutted.
"I thought my goal would have at least earned a point and may be we would have gone on to win the game. So to lose and have nothing to show for the goal is disappointing to say the least.
"It is a big learning curve for a young group like ours.
"It is important we roll up our sleeves and dig in because it would be very easy to feel sorry for ourselves."
Smith thought Latics' inexperienced side acquitted itself well against a Coventry side full of senior players.
He continued: "I thought we had the better of the chances in the second half and in the first ought to have had a stone wall penalty.
"I don't know how the referee didn't see it as I was rugby tackled in the penalty area.
"And at the end young Chris (Sutherland) almost got on the end of a flick on.
"It was so unlucky as we worked so hard and I am absolutely gutted.
"The game showed the fine lines between no points and three points, something I have noticed since becoming a full-time footballer.
Smith is delighted to be having his first run of games for Latics - yesterday was his seventh successive start and his goal was his fourth of the campaign.
He said: "I would like to add more goals to my game which is why it is important I scored against Coventry.
"I needed a run of games in the side to prove myself and to be able to improve.
"I am just happy to have been given the opportunity to do so.
"My performances have been mixed, but I know there is a lot more to come so it is important I keep working hard."