Latics hit by early goal
Latics reserves could not have made a worse start as they fell behind after only 11 seconds of their Central League, West Division match against Walsall at Chasetown FC.Their defence was split open straight from the kick off as Amadou Bakayoko burst clear to slot a shot low past keeper Luke Simpson.
It was a harrowing start for Latics, who had seven scholars in their inexperienced starting line up, as Walsall carved out four clear-cut chances in the opening 10 minutes.
Walsall, who had the likes of Dean Holden and Julian Gray in their side, found Simpson in fabulous form as he made stunning saves to deny Reece Flanagan and Mal Benning.
Latics even had an early chance to equalise but John Pritchard's free kick flew just past an upright.
Walsall added a second goal just before half time when Kieron Morris released Bakayoko who slotted a low shot under Simpson.
And right at the end of the half, Jordache Walters beat keeper Richard Jones to the ball but fired wide.
Half time: Walsall reserves 2, Latics reserves 0.