Youth team boss Tony Philliskirk was delighted with last night’s 2-0 victory over Bury in the first round of the FA Youth Cup.
Ronaldo Brown gave the youngsters the lead just before the half hour mark sweeping home at the back post from a Tom Hamer cross.
Five minutes later and Latics extended their lead from the penalty spot. Brad Kay was fouled in the penalty area and he picked himself up to send the goalkeeper the wrong way to secure Athletic’s passage into the second round.
Speaking about the game, Philliskirk said: “We are delighted with the win, we played very energetic football in particular in the first half against a very good team.
"I’ve got to hold my hands up and say Bury played the better football at times but the lads determination and work ethic really got them through it.
"The first goal was massive. We started brightly but they came into it and I thought it was going to be a long night but then we got the goal which was important.
“I’m absolutely delighted for Ronaldo as I’ve been on his case for so long for him to get in at the back post and it was great to see him score and get his first goal for us.
“We worked this week in training on setting little traps for winning the penalty and it was a good penalty Brad Kay scored and that gave us the cushion.
“Bury came out in the second half and played really well but I’ll be honest, I never felt in danger.
“I thought the back four were really solid, the midfield lads worked so hard and the front lads worked hard to defend from the front.
"There were a few nervy moments but I always felt we could have added a third on the break.
“The FA Youth Cup is the showcase event for the players as they are playing in front of the first team manager, watching scouts and on the main pitch in front of supporters and I’m glad they give a good account of themselves."