Latics Back to Winning Ways with 2-0 Victory Over Bristol Rovers
Match Report | Latics 2-0 Bristol Rovers
Wigan Athletic returned to winning ways at the Brick Community Stadium with a convincing 2-0 victory over Bristol Rovers in Sky Bet League One. Goals from James Carragher and Jonny Smith sealed the three points in front of 10,112 fans, including 492 traveling supporters.
A respectable turnout from Bristol Rovers today at Wigan! #wafc #brfc #efl pic.twitter.com/1gnltXPYMl
— C&C Football Vlogs (@CCFootballVlogs) January 25, 2025
Carragher’s Moment of Glory
The home side got off to the perfect start when James Carragher scored his first-ever professional goal just six minutes into the match. Rising highest from Joe Hungbo’s well-delivered free kick, the young defender headed past the Bristol Rovers goalkeeper to give Latics an early advantage.
Latics almost doubled their lead moments later as Dale Taylor’s effort from the edge of the box narrowly missed the target. Bristol Rovers responded with Gatlin O’Donkor forcing a save from Sam Tickle, who showed composure throughout the match.
Hungbo was lively on the right flank and caused problems for the visitors, although he was controversially booked for diving in the first half. Thelo Aasgaard also came close with a deflected shot that looped just wide, ensuring Latics remained in control at the interval.
Halftime Entertainment
Fans were treated to a lively halftime show featuring zorb football and penalty shootouts with Crusty the Pie, much to the delight of the crowd. The entertaining activities kept spirits high and created a fun-filled atmosphere for supporters of all ages.
Has Sam Tickle got competition now?
— C&C Football Vlogs (@CCFootballVlogs) January 25, 2025
Super Crusty the Pie in Goal! #wafc pic.twitter.com/fVfQ75MQDp
Smith Secures the Win
Bristol Rovers came out fighting in the second half, with Sam Tickle making a crucial double save to deny O’Donkor from close range. However, it was Latics who struck next. A misplaced goal kick from Rovers allowed Taylor to slide in substitute Jonny Smith, who made no mistake with a clinical finish into the far corner in the 70th minute.
Aasgaard nearly added a third just a minute later, only to see his volley crash against the crossbar from five yards out. Despite late pressure from the visitors, Wigan remained in control, with Smith and Jon Mellish both missing opportunities to extend the lead in stoppage time.
Team News and Tactical Changes
Shaun Maloney made four changes to the starting XI, bringing in Carragher, Luke Robinson, Silko Thomas, and Joe Hungbo. Will Aimson, Jon Mellish, Michael Olakigbe, and Smith dropped to the bench, with Callum McManaman making a return to the matchday squad.
The tactical adjustments paid off, as Latics delivered a disciplined performance, balancing solid defense with attacking flair.
Next Up: Peterborough United
With this victory, Wigan Athletic climb further from the relegation zone and head into Tuesday night’s clash against Peterborough United with renewed confidence. The Latics faithful will hope this result marks the start of a positive run of form as the season progresses.
Match Details
- Attendance: 10,112 (492 away)
- Goals:
- ⚽ Carragher 6’
- ⚽ Smith 70’
Matchday Vlog
Stay tuned for more updates, match previews, and analysis on our website!