Report by John Patrick Heeley

Wolves Under-21 side spot on against frustrated Wigan

Wigan Athletic were frustrated by a resilient Wolverhampton Wanderers Under-21 side as their Papa John's Trophy group-stage fixture ended goalless before the visitors claimed the bonus point by winning the ensuing penalty shootout 4-2.

Leam Richardson opted to field a youthful and much-changed Wigan side, giving several academy players an opportunity alongside experienced figures such as Gavin Massey, Gwion Edwards and Stephen Humphrys.

Wolves also arrived with a young squad and matched the hosts throughout a competitive encounter.

Despite enjoying spells of possession and looking the more likely side to threaten, Wigan found clear-cut chances difficult to come by against a disciplined Wolves defence.

The visitors were equally determined, creating opportunities of their own and ensuring goalkeeper Jamie Jones was required to stay alert whenever called upon.

As the match progressed, both teams searched for a breakthrough but neither could find the decisive touch in the final third. 

Wigan's attacking players, led by Humphrys and Massey, were unable to convert their possession into goals, while Wolves' young side continued to defend resolutely and frustrate the League One hosts.

After 90 minutes finished scoreless, the competition's format required a penalty shootout to determine who would receive the additional bonus point.

Wolves proved more clinical from the spot, winning the shootout 4-2.

Stephen Humphrys and Gavin Massey converted for Wigan, but misses from Thelo Aasgaard and Gwion Edwards proved costly.

Conor Carty, Chem Campbell, Luke Cundle and Kam Kandola all scored for the visitors.

Although Wigan earned a point for the draw, Wolves Under-21s left the DW Stadium with the extra bonus point after prevailing in the shootout.

It was a disciplined and spirited display from the academy side against senior opposition, while Wigan were left to reflect on a frustrating evening in front of goal.