Latics survive late comeback to see off Blackpool

Report by John Patrick Heeley

Latics edged out Blackpool 3–2 in an entertaining  encounter at The Brick Community Stadium in the newly named Jersey Mike's Trophy, surviving a late Blackpool fightback to secure their second win of this season's competition.

Gary Caldwell's side made the perfect start when Connor Barrett opened the scoring after just three minutes. Dara Costelloe provided the assist, with Wigan taking an early advantage and carrying that lead into half-time.

Wigan doubled their advantage shortly after the interval. Scott Hogan struck in the 57th minute, again with Barrett involved, putting them in a commanding position at 2–0.

Blackpool, however, refused to go quietly. Tom Bloxham reduced the deficit from the penalty spot in the 72nd minute, giving Ian Evatt's side renewed hope of salvaging something from the contest.

That hope was checked only six minutes later when Wigan restored their two-goal advantage.

Substitute Fraser Murray, introduced for Jensen Weir in the 60th minute, found the net in the 78th minute after being set up by Barrett.

Blackpool produced one final scare in the closing stages. Captain Jerry Yates scored in the 90th minute, with Leighton Clarkson supplying the assist, but Wigan held on through added time to claim a 3–2 victory.

The result was particularly significant for Wigan after their difficult League One run.

Caldwell's side had lost 1–0 to Wycombe Wanderers three days earlier, but the cup victory provided a five-goal contest and another positive result in the EFL Trophy.

Gary Caldwell will be pleased with his side's performance which will given him plenty to take from the evening, particularly the attacking contribution of Barrett and the response after Blackpool pulled the score back to 2–1.