Report by John Patrick Heeley

Latics outdone by Hatters' dominant display

Luton Town produced an impressive away performance to defeat Wigan Athletic 3-1 at Springfield Park, handing the Latics a disappointing home defeat in the early stages of the 1998/99 Division Two campaign.

Goals from Steve Davis, Sean Evers and Phil Gray secured all three points for the Hatters.

Wigan entered the match looking to build on a promising start to the season, but they found themselves behind when defender Steve Davis opened the scoring for the visitors.

The goal gave Luton confidence and allowed them to take control of much of the first half.

Despite Wigan's efforts to find a way back into the contest, Luton maintained their advantage until the interval and looked dangerous whenever they broke forward.

The visitors' defence, marshalled by Graham Alexander and Gavin McGowan, limited the opportunities available to the home attack.

The Latics responded after the break and managed to draw level through striker Stuart Barlow.

His goal appeared to offer Wigan a route back into the game and raised hopes of a turnaround in front of the home supporters.

However, Luton quickly regained the initiative. Sean Evers restored the visitors' lead, putting Lennie Lawrence's side back in front and shifting the momentum firmly in their favour.

The decisive blow came from Phil Gray, who answered recent criticism with a match-winning display and scored Luton's third goal to put the result beyond doubt.

His contribution capped an excellent afternoon for the Hatters and ensured the points would be heading back to Bedfordshire.

The defeat was a frustrating setback for Ray Mathias' side despite the equaliser from Barlow.

Luton were the more clinical side in front of goal and deservedly left Springfield Park with all three points.

The victory was not without concern for Luton. During the match, Liam George suffered a serious injury following a challenge by Wigan defender Scott Green.