Oldham Athletic

Carl Winchester’s first half strike was the difference between the sides as he thundered the ball past the goalkeeper from 25 yards.

Speaking after the game, Sheridan said: "We got the result we were after and we got the three points. I think we were the better team and we deserved the result. 

"We could have probably got more but I’m chuffed for the players and supporters who have travelled. It’s been tough for them but that’s one win now and we just have to go on to the next one. 

“I thought our performance was good in the game and we had to dig in during the last 10 minutes but we got our head on it and defended really well.

"It’s good to get a clean sheet as well. It was workman-like but when we had to pass the ball, we did that well.

"They are giving me very good effort and tonight they gave me good football at times. Sometimes I get agitated because I think we give the ball away cheaply when we are in good possession so we need to better but at times tonight we played really well.”

The goal was Winchester’s first of the season and the manager is expecting more from his star midfielder.

“It was a good goal but he should be scoring more goals with what he’s got,” he admitted. 

“It was a great finish with his weaker foot. He should be getting in more scoring areas and getting more attempts on goal. 

"It was a great strike and it gave us the advantage. You defend better when you’re ahead and that’s what we did and I’m happy with the clean sheet.”

A surprise inclusion in the starting 11 was central defender Anthony Gerrard. The deal to sign him was done in time for him to play last night and he made a very positive impact at the heart of the Oldham Athletic defence.

“He has been here before and knows the club,” said Sheridan. “He is what we need and he is experienced and vocal. 

“He demands things and I saw that tonight and he’s not afraid to get on at the players and that’s what we’ve missed."

Watch the full interview on Latics PlayerHD.