Manager John Sheridan described the three points picked up against Coventry City yesterday as ‘massive’.
Coventry’s Marcus Tudgay cancelled out Kevin Foley’s own goal as the scores were level at the half time break.
However, after the interval, Latics went back ahead through captain Peter Clarke and a superb individual effort from Ryan McLaughlin put Latics 3-1 ahead.
Kwami Thomas reduced the arrears for Coventry City but Sheridan’s men managed to hold on to the win.
“We were playing a team who were bottom of the table and never thought Coventry would be the bottom of our league.
“I knew it would be a tough game, they’ve just got themselves in a Wembley final and they’ve got a very experienced manager so I expected them to be fighting all the way.
"I wouldn’t be surprised if they got out of it because they showed they were a half decent team today. It was a grind on a difficult pitch.
“I don’t think we played well, and the only time I did think we played well was just after half time to get ourselves to 3-1.
"We didn’t really get going in the first half and it was difficult for some of our players. We made the subs in the second half and they gave us that little spark.
"Michael Ngoo was a handful when he came on. He offered something different with his height and got on the front foot.
“We could have seen the game out a bit easier, but we didn’t but we’ve won the game and that’s the most important thing.
“We might have another 10 of them games but if we keep getting three points from them then I think we’ll all be happy and it will keep us in this league."
The manager reserved praise for the versatile Ryan McLaughlin who capped off a superb performance with Athletic’s third goal.
“I thought McLaughlin’s goal was an excellent goal,” he commented. He looked sharp and showed a good touch and it was a great finish.
“I’m pleased for him and wherever I play him, he always puts a shift in for the team.
“He doesn’t grumble, he just gets on with his game and I’m just pleased he got his goal.”
In terms of injury news, Aaron Holloway limped off with an injury and Sheridan gave an update on his situation.
“Aaron got a kick on his knee and he is in the physio’s hands,” he said. “He is sore, and that’s why we brought him off but we are just assessing him at the moment.
"Hopefully Stuart the physio will be able to get him back as quick as he can. Fane had a little bit of a knock as well but we’ve had a lot of games recently so a few look leggy.
“We will just look after the players now and see who’s fit and available for Tuesday night.
“I’ve got a lot of good players on the bench so if I think a few look leggy then I will change my team.”
Watch the full interview on Latics PlayerHD.