The first game for Latics’ new B team ended in a 2-2 draw at Macclesfield on Tuesday afternoon.
Jordan Windass and Harry Vaughan found the target either side of half-time in a valuable workout for different members of the squad at Moss Rose.
As well as featuring a number of first-team players, the match also gave valuable game-time to several youngsters and academy prospects as they look to bridge the gap between the youth set-up and senior football.
“A lot of our lads were in need of a game, I thought we were really good for 60 minutes before our fitness levels dropped but overall it was a very good exercise,” said B-team manager Francis Jeffers.
“I know a few of the Macclesfield coaches, we’ve played against a good side today and it was very good for our youngsters to see what it’s like to play against experienced opposition.
“There’s nothing better than playing a game of football, we could have had a training session today but it wouldn’t have been half as effective.
“Harry showed his ability with a really good goal and we’ve probably got to help him learn more of the game without the ball.
“When these players get their opportunity in the first team, they need to be as fit and as ready as they can be, and I’m sure our lads will be a lot better for today’s games and the ones that take place in the future.”
Latics took the lead midway through the first half, Windass turning inside the area before firing the ball home after a corner from Benny Couto had broken to the defender inside the area.
Jayson Leutwiler made an excellent reflex to keep out Abs Obasoto’s fierce drive and Tom Clare then went close for a Macclesfield consisting of first-team players and several trailists.
The home side went ahead with two quick-fire goals after the re-start, Harry Bower finishing well after breaking down the right before Nicky Maynard planted a shot home after receiving the ball from Bower.
That aside, the second half was controlled by Latics, who equalised through Vaughan’s fine strike from 25 yards, creating space before bending a shot past Joe Mason.
Latics continued to enjoy the better of the play and came within inches of a winner, Jack Stobbs cutting in from the left, only for his shot to cannon off the crossbar.
Latics B: Leutwiler, Windass, Kilner, Turner (c), Wellens, Vaughan, Couto (Atkinson), Edwards, Burgess (Doro), Stobbs, Luamba.