Wigan Athletic edge past Chorley in pre-season opener
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- C&C Football Vlogs
- July 5, 2025
- Wigan
Wigan Athletic kicked off their 2025–26 pre-season campaign with a hard-fought 2‑1 victory over National League North side Chorley FC on 5 July. Chorley stunned the Latics in the first half with a strike from Tom Carr in the 35th minute, rewarding their early dominance.
Second-half heroics from Dara Costelloe
Summer signing Dara Costelloe, making his debut after joining from Burnley in late June, stole the show. The forward came off the bench to score twice within a minute during the final quarter: first connecting with Christian Saydee for a neat one-two before slotting in with his left foot in the 77th minute, then racing through on the left to lob the keeper with his right a minute later. A potential third was chalked off for offside, but Costelloe’s brace proved enough.
Ryan Lowe optimistic ahead of summer friendlies
Manager Ryan Lowe was pleased with the response and the fitness levels, noting that eleven second-half changes elevated the performance. He was particularly encouraged by the impact of Costelloe and Christian Saydee on the pitch. The upbeat outcome sets a positive tone ahead of upcoming fixtures, including matches against Accrington Stanley and Tranmere Rovers, before heading into the League One campaign.
Tactical tweaks and emerging talent
Wigan’s switch in personnel at half-time paid off. In the first half, Paul Mullin and Ronan Darcy had chances but were unable to find the net, while Harry McHugh was denied a penalty after being blocked off in the box. The second-half substitutions brought more energy and sharper attacking intent, with Jensen Weir and Saydee looking particularly lively, building the platform for Costelloe’s decisive double.
Next steps for the Latics
This friendly clash is the first of four confirmed summer games, a vital preparation phase as Wigan readies itself for the 2025–26 season. With new signings making an early impact and the squad responding well, Ryan Lowe will hope to use this momentum as the team heads into camp and continues its tune-up fixtures.
📌 Match at a glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Chorley 1–2 Wigan Athletic |
| Chorley’s Goal | Tom Carr (35′) |
| Wigan’s Goals | Dara Costelloe (77′, 78′) |
| Venue | Victory Park (Chorley FC) |
With a comeback win and fresh foot on the gas, the Latics deliver a promising first impression ahead of a busy summer.
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