Manager Darren Kelly insists there is still a lot of hard work to do but was pleased to win in his first game in charge of the club.
Rhys Turner's second half strike was enough to seal Latics a 1-0 victory over Vanarama Conference side Chester FC and the manager was pleased to get the first game out of the way.
He said: "I'm pleased in terms of what I've asked the players to do. We have a plan in terms of formation and we will continue to work hard on that but for me it's all about the work ethic.
"You have to buy into what we do with and without possession and I thought the players did that very well.
"For me, I'm very pleased. We had a couple of niggly injuries but nothing to be concerned about. I'm glad to get the first game out of the way as well.
"We are under no illusions to the work we have to do. It's a lot of hard work because the players need to know their roles and responsibilities inside out and that's what we are working towards.
"The main thing today was to go out and put on a good show in terms of work rate and commitment and show the supporters that we will work hard, be well organised and show them what we can do."
With a couple of first team players precautionary missing the game, it allowed the manager to assess some of the younger players in action.
"We have a lot of good options in different areas. Rhys has worked hard in the off-season and he got a reward with the goal. We got a clean sheet which was pleasing," admitted Kelly.
"Overall I was very pleased. I want a lot of healthy competition. I want a headache. Sometimes it can be easy to pick a team because of injuries but I want that headache because it means we are at full strength."
The players travel up to Scotland today to face St Mirren and Stirling Albion and the 35-year-old summed up his thoughts ahead of the trip.
He said: "I'm expecting a lot of hard work but it's a good time to go there. It allows the new players to get to know their teammates. I will get to know the players more and they will get to know me more so really looking forward to it."
Watch the full interview on Latics PlayerHD.