Martinez has helped Latics avoid a 'relegation special'

Having just about recovered from the madness of Sunday’s epic Premier League finale, I sat down to properly read the latest edition of the Mudhutter Football Express yesterday evening. Jimmy‘s comedy-censored foreword made no secret of the fact this was meant to be a ‘relegation special’, quite obviously written some months in advance at a time when survival seemed but a pipe dream. Now that’s what I call ‘keeping the faith’! In all seriousness, though, I considered posting something similar here at JWAW: a celebration of Wigan’s seven years in the Premier League/Premiership/Premier Foods League through our most memorable matches.

Indeed, as few as ten weeks ago it all looked to be coming to an end. The five minute bell had already sounded and we hadn’t even finished our cucumber sandwiches in the pavilion dining room, let alone equip pads and spikes. While myself and the MFE are left slightly egg-faced, it’s with delight we banish our misplaced resignation, for once again we sit in anticipation of another successive season in England’s top flight. As I repeatedly exclaimed in the aftermath of Shaun Maloney’s goal against Newcastle, just who would have credited it?

Events at the Etihad Stadium make me wish the Wigan-Wolves match was played on Saturday, the day before all that excitement unfolded, so I could follow the top-of-the-table soap opera in front of the telly. No matter how unfeasible such fiddling of the fixtures may sound, I feel as though I missed out on something special, the sheer craziness of the Premier League’s closest ever finish.

Not that I would have been anywhere other than the DW for our final game of the season which, had there been survival to contest, would of course have taken precedence over eating, sleeping and breathing (but not drinking). I don’t know, maybe we Latics supporters have become drama junkies thanks to season finales past – we seek to avoid those all-or-nothing one-shot playoffs, yet at the same time crave the emotion. I guess that’s entertainment for you.

Remember when they said everybody would remember Vincent Kompany's goal as the one that won the title?

I rushed home to watch Match of the Day on Sunday evening. As Sergio Aguero spun his shirt in triumph, memories of West Ham and that feeling of euphoria sparked by a last-minute winner came flooding back. When there’s something as huge as survival or the championship title riding on it, there really is nothing like a last-gasp strike to remind you just why you started watching football in the first place.

I did, like many others, expect City’s win to be more comfortable. While QPR’s resolve is no surprise, I thought home advantage would give City the edge and they’d win by the odd goal. The newsprint proves they did just that, but I wouldn’t ever have anticipated how close it would eventually be.

Amid this frenzy, however, I feel MOTD failed to convey the tension of the relegation battle. There was little coverage of Bolton’s frantic scramble for that late goal to save their Premier League lives, nor was there the usual sea of relieved faces from the ‘escapees’, in this case QPR. Sure, it was nowhere near as close as the title tussle but it was equally as, if not more gut-wrenching for the sides involved. Just imagine how nervy things would have become had the Trotters managed to score in those final 13 minutes. Just imagine how different it might have been had St Helens-born Chris Foy remembered this wasn’t a Challenge Cup quarter final and penalised Jon Walters for his rugby tackle on Adam Bogdan.

As the old saying goes, football is often decided on fine margins. If 13 minutes is but a miniscule part of a 38-game campaign, then 240 seconds is positively microscopic. But I feel the strangely addictive, feverish commotion surrounding another season-long relegation scrap has been lost in (partially) media-fuelled Manchester hysteria and given an undeserved cold shoulder by certain media outlets.

Perhaps, when the buzz dies down, people might take a moment to reflect upon what has actually been another butt-clenching final stretch down at the Prem’s backside. At this rate, however, such ruminations will dissipate in Euro Championship and Olympics-induced patriotic haze. Where Bolton, Blackburn and Wolves are concerned, it’s probably for the best.

Three goals and three straight wins to cap a superb end to the season

And so it came to pass that on Sunday, 13 May 2012, Wigan Athletic and Wolverhampton Wanderers would do battle on the green (well alright, slightly brown) pastures of the DW. But it wasn’t quite the crucial relegation contest many predicted and perhaps expected, what with the fate of both sides already decided. What happened there, eh? It wasn’t supposed to be like this – Latics always take it right down to the wire, pulling out their greatest battling performances on the final day to seal survival in the most exciting manner possible. It actually made a pleasant change, because it’s about time we had the opportunity to sit back and enjoy some football without the spectre of relegation hanging over us.

Yesterday, to put it simply, was a great big excuse for a party. A near-full house for Wigan’s 1500th league game, the grand unveiling of next season’s kit, the 2pm crush outside the newly-opened Sharpy’s Restaurant, the traditional end-of-season lap of honour… we haven’t seen this much activity in Wigan since they opened that Ann Summers store on Crompton Street.

Then there was the small matter of a football match. Latics have truly been in the form of their Premier League lives, blistering their way to the top of the form league with an incredible six wins in eight games. Though Wolves’ record in the equivalent eight matches is less impressive, it must be said that it takes some quality to score four goals at the Liberty Stadium and keep a clean sheet against Everton, even with nothing of real meaning left to play for. Everton will of course contest this statement with inter-city bragging rights at stake, but the point stands – that’s two decent draws for Wolves. A pity then, that they have been sure of their own relegation for some weeks now.

Wigan made one change from the lineup that won 1-0 at Blackburn on Monday night, with Adrian Lopez replacing goalscorer Antolin Alcaraz in the centre of defence. The reason for the Paraguayan’s absence is as-yet unexplained, but after such an important goal, I’d say he deserved a day off to kick back and watch his team-mates complete a third straight victory.

A relieved jubilance welcomed Latics to the pitch for their final game of the season, and the home side dominated possession in the first five minutes, a period which saw them win a corner after just ten seconds of play. But Wolves were to score with their first real attack of the game, Matt Jarvis’ fine curling finish past Al Habsi’s left hand from the right side of the penalty area spoiling the planned minute’s applause to celebrate Wigan’s 8 years in the Premier League. Couldn’t he have waited a few seconds for the clock tick over to the ninth minute? At least the travelling faithful enjoyed it immensely, and continued to be cheerful even when their side went behind on the 13 minute mark. Yes indeed, Latics were to produce another of those fantastic bursts of attacking play which yielded two goals in five minutes.

"No, that's not how you do 'the Rope', Adrian..."

There was a sliver of fortune about Wigan’s first goal as Franco Di Flecto struck in fitting fashion – via the leg, back, side, or even backside of a defender unlucky enough to get in the way of his strike. Or maybe it just went through his legs. Whatever the case, it was Wigan Athletic’s 2000th league goal and would earn the Argentine the Latics Golden Boot 2011-12. Fun fact: at least 71% of Di Santo’s goals this campaign have come from deflections. Nah, just like the mainstream media, I made that up – he’s improved so much this last 18 months we certainly shan’t begrudge him any of his goals.

Wigan were in front two minutes later, when from a Jean Beausejour corner, Emmerson Boyce was afforded plenty of room to beat Dorus De Vries all ends up. As the ball came in from the Wigan left, Boyce leapt like a salmon (Sammon?) to emulate Antolin Alcaraz’s effort on Monday night, powering home a fantastic short-range header to complete the comeback and round off a thoroughly entertaining 15 minutes of football.

Boyce is back in town: Emmerson was on target twice to effectively win the game for Latics

Wolves responded with a couple of efforts through Doyle and Hunt, but the hosts remained lively and Shaun Maloney was causing some trouble in the centre of midfield. On more than one occasion the Scot found himself free to run at the Wolves defence, and drew a save from De Vries just before Boyce’s goal. By contrast, though Victor Moses found himself with the ball a couple of times, he was relatively quiet and didn’t make as much impact on the right wing. Suggestions that he might already be sat on a beach in Barbados were a little cruel, but there was a touch of end-of-season syndrome about his game. Remember the same happening with Charles N’Zobgia last season?

The home side almost made it 3-1 on 27 minutes, when Franco Di Santo was only denied a short-range tap-in by a decent last-gasp block. Figueroa played the initial probing ball through to Beausejour on the left wing, whose cross was cleared wonderfully at the near post. Victor Moses also saw a shot deflected by Ronald Zubar soon after, and Franco Di Santo couldn’t direct his 38th minute header goalwards to trouble De Vries.

Though both Latics and Wolves created one or two decent half-chances towards the back end of the half, it wasn’t enough to really challenge either keeper. Wigan finished the stronger, but the score remained 2-1 going into the break at a sunny DW Stadium.

The wounded Wolves began the half with a ‘special teams’ substitution; Carl Ikeme replaced Dorus De Vries in goal on 50 minutes. Wigan would soon make their own change, Victor Moses receiving hearty applause for his season’s efforts when he was replaced by Lil’ Bert Crusat just before the hour mark. He had a part to play as Latics were still searching for goals – Franco Di Santo and Jean Beausejour fired successive strikes at Ikeme shortly after. Right on cue, Kevin Doyle would also execute his own successive shots, as if to prove Wolves weren’t about to just give up with Premier League points at stake. Al Habsi was equal to both efforts, but you just knew someone was about to make a breakthrough.

The visitors looked to commit a few more men to their attack line, but this left them vulnerable at the back, a perceived weakness that Maloney, McCarthy and Crusat all attempted to exploit with efforts in the next five minutes. With time ticking away, Wolves introduced Steven Fletcher for Ebanks-Blake, who had earlier headed over Al Habsi’s crossbar from short range. Latics also made a change up front, Di Santo making way for Hugo Rodallega, who graced the DW turf for what must surely be the final time in his 3½ year career at Wigan. Both parties were warmly applauded for their contributions this year and in seasons past.

Rodders ain't no plonker, he set up Boycey's screamer

The Colombian made an almost immediate impact in his brief 13-minute return to action for Latics, setting up Emmerson Boyce for a spectacular volley from 19 yards out. Ikeme was left with no chance as the Barbadian unleashed a vicious right-foot strike into the top corner of the South Stand goal, causing 20,000 Latics fans to raise the roof. It was the perfect goal to round off a magnificent end to the season, a right-footed finish worthy of the Outstanding Achievement Award Boyce received on the pitch before kick-off. Perhaps it spurred him on, as this was positively his most impressive attacking performance to date – if you thought Boycey’s goal against Fulham was good, wait until you see the two he scored yesterday.

With 12 minutes to play, the game wasn’t quite over yet. There was still time for Adrian Lopez to fluff his lines and gift Steven Fletcher a consolation, a throwback to the early half of the season when Wigan were making crucial defensive mistakes week in, week out. Lopez and Caldwell attempted to salvage the situation, but Fletcher bisected them perfectly to bring the game back to 3-2.

Will Steven Fletcher be playing Premier League football next year?

There were a few nerves when Matt Jarvis delivered a 87th minute corner deep into the Wigan area, but Ali Al Habsi took the ball quite comfortably and Latics were mere minutes away from a 15th place finish. Hugo Rodallega almost put that final bit of gloss on a solid team performance in the last minute of stoppage time, but only succeeded in jabbing the ball against the post from a relatively acute angle. It would have been a fitting send-off for Rodders, but in terms of the result, it mattered not – Michael Oliver blew for full time seconds later and the season was over. The obligatory kiddies’ pitch invasion ensued, followed by a lap of honour to celebrate the efforts of each and every player that contributed to what was arguably a pretty successful year’s football.

We shall leave any detailed analysis of the campaign for another day, but yesterday was, in a sense, Wigan Athletic’s season in microcosm; dizzying heights, reflected in Boyce’s superb volley, tempered by groan-inducing lows, represented by Adrian Lopez’s 85th minute howler. Ultimately, it ended well enough with Latics prevailing for the three points. One would have to say it was deserved, even if there was a ‘foot off the gas’ approach to defending at times – which reminds me, we’re going to need another central defender before August.

The result could have been more comfortable, as Latics created enough to be completely out of sight before the final ten minutes. As I expected, Wolves put in a better effort than Blackburn on Monday – they finished the game having won greater possession, and credit must go to Matt Jarvis for his excellent goal. Granted, that was the visitors’ only real threat in the first half, but they worked two or three great (perhaps even better) openings during the second and might have exploited one or two more end-of-season defensive lapses as the game drew to a close.

We're not worthy: Bob has worked another mini-miracle

Now it’s time to party before the inevitable madness of the summer months. Who knows what the media’s ‘silly season’ might bring? Perhaps Wayne Rooney, impressed by the Martinez brand of football, will be persuaded to take a wage cut and make the short move west to Wigan? Maybe Robin van Persie will strike up a similar deal with Dave Whelan that will see him spend a year on loan at the DW? Maybe Victor Moses will make that move to Barcelona? Well perhaps not the last one, but you get the idea – much like your celebratory chips, take anything you read in the next three months with a pinch of sodium chloride.

The Wingman & Alcatraz: Wigan are greatly indebted to their central defensive partnership

Latics edged out Blackburn to seal their survival with a game to spare thanks to a powerful 87th minute Antolin Alcaraz header. Though the visitors dominated the first half, they could not make any of their excellent chances count against an insipid Rovers. The hosts, requiring a win to remain in the hunt for a place in next year’s Premier League, launched a spirited second-half effort to grasp control of the game. They were denied a decent penalty shout when Boyce appeared to hack Hoilett to the ground, but referee Mark Clattenberg was unsighted due to the sea of bodies and rapidly deteriorating climactic conditions. Having soaked up the Blackburn onslaught, Wigan came back strongly in the final ten minutes and Alcaraz cropped up with less than four minutes to play to head home Beausejour’s corner at the back post.

Results since Wigan’s last match meant that a draw would effectively see them safe. We are all too aware, however, that there is great danger in playing for a draw, as we have witnessed numerous times this season in countless games throughout the Premier League. Martinez is ever conscious of this, and abandoned any thought of such a strategy long ago, perhaps as far back as his debut season as manager of Wigan. With Rovers also in need of a result, it seemed there was no way the game would finish goalless.

With no injury worries whatsoever, Latics could once again stick to the winning lineup that had served them so well in the past month. Brimming with confidence off the back of a spectacular 4-0 victory over Newcastle, they resumed business as usual, imposing themselves on the game from kick-off. Latics quickly seized control of midfield, harassing and haranguing Blackburn like lions around a carcass. Their first great chance came on 8 minutes, when Franco Di Santo skipped over two defenders before attempting to whip the ball across Paul Robinson, but the ex-England international could pouch the Argentine’s effort with relative ease.

Antony Modeste attempted a not-at-all modest Cisse-esque volley from way outside the area, but it went sailing over Al Habsi’s bar and Wigan were soon back on the attack. Franco Di Santo had a difficult chance just inside the penalty area as the ball came in from the left, but could not prevent his effort from ballooning into the upper tier of the stand behind Robinson’s goal. The visitors continued to come forward, however, and Victor Moses was afforded another Latics shot on target before the half hour was up. Chasing a seemingly lost cause, he cut his way from the sideline into the penalty area, but no Wigan men seemed to anticipate the Nigerian’s marauding run and he had no choice but to go for goal himself. Robinson neutralised the threat, but troubling times abound for Rovers.

Victor Moses: Lively

Moses soon found himself with an even better opportunity, the most likely yet, on 36 minutes. Franco Di Santo delivered a pinpoint cross from the right touchline to find the solitary Moses in a sea of three defenders, but the former England U21 man could not direct his header goalwards, instead sending it across the face of the 6-yard box for Rovers to clear with ease.

The first 40 minutes of the game passed by without any great threat from Blackburn, and a nervous Ewood Park had remained relatively quiet. The 4,000 travelling Wigan fans were making themselves heard, however, even if their team could not find that finishing touch – chants of ‘we shall not be moved’ often drowned out the ripples of anti-Kean/Venky’s sentiment amongst the home faithful. Wigan remained on top until the half time whistle, and but for the odd free kick conceded in dodgy territory, had an easy ride through to the break. But the second stanza, you felt, would be a whole different story – the hosts had to improve, or they would certainly be relegated this evening.

The teams were a few minutes late returning from the tunnel when the paramedic was called to Blackburn’s dressing room to tend to Gael Givet. For a moment there were worries that it may be something more serious than the hamstring injury which prevented him from taking his place on the pitch again, but thankfully it was nothing cardiovascular or respiratory as Sky Sports originally feared.

When the home side did take to the field, it was with renewed vigour and increased urgency as Rovers set about working themselves back into the game. Their play was an improvement for sure, but the visitors continued to repel everything they could muster and the game soon became stretched, with Latics threatening on the occasional break. To add further spice (and plenty of juice), the rain was now hammering down on the already very greasy Ewood surface to make heavy work of passing. Rovers dealt with it better initially, negating this potential pitfall with a battery of high balls into the Wigan area.

Shaun Maloney was hard-working in midfield as ever (Credit: Alasdair Middleton)

Blackburn’s endeavour almost paid dividends on 52 minutes, when Wigan were made to scramble a Yakubu effort off the line. From another Rovers corner, Scott Dann nodded the ball back across goal for the Yak to get away a volley seemingly destined for the back of the net, but Jean Beausejour was in the right place to shin the ball away and clear of danger. It must have stung, but the Chilean had just preserved Wigan’s clean sheet for that little bit longer.

The home side continued to power forward, urged on by a now supportive home crowd who smelled blue and white blood. They were almost rewarded just moments later as yet another Wigan goalmouth scramble could have yielded positive results for Rovers. As it happened, they were left ruing their horrible luck as Junior Hoilett was undeniably chopped down just outside the six yard box, but referee Mark Clattenberg remained unflinching. As the Ontarian set himself for a certain shot on goal, Emmerson Boyce gave him a swift kick in the back of his heel for what seemed like, as they call, a ‘stone-waller’. Replays showed, however, that Clattenberg’s view of the incident was obscured by Marcus Olsson, surely the only reason why he didn’t point to the spot. Be it through poor ref positioning or just pure good luck, perhaps a bit of both, Wigan had well and truly dodged a bullet.

The temperature inside Ewood Park escalated as home fans launched their most vociferous anti-Venky’s chant yet, and the on-field end-to-end action was cooled only by driving rain that threatened to turn the contest into a scrappy, old fashioned Lancashire derby of seasons past.

Emmerson Boyce was lucky not to have conceded a penalty

As Blackburn’s desperation reached a peak, the anticipated long balls into Wigan’s area were now becoming as frequent as the chicken-related jokes trending on Twitter. Such tactics, however, no matter how necessary, often tend to leave you open at the back and yesterday evening was no exception. Despite a concerted defensive effort from Wigan, Victor Moses was on the prowl deep in opposition territory as usual, and caused more than a few Blackburn heart palpitations when he went down inside the penalty area on 70 minutes. Thankfully for Rovers, Clattenberg was eagle eyed on this occasion, noticing that Moses threw himself to ground a bit too easily. Now, I’m not saying Victor is a diver, but this one was pretty blatant and more than deserved the booking it warranted.

The next ten minutes saw the hosts launch a final invasion of the Latics half. It was prolonged, and resulted in more than a few nervy moments for the Wigan defence, but Gary Caldwell had his defensive line well organised by this time. Al Habsi, too, was sprightly and eager to play his part, commanding the penalty area with a comforting assuredness in these tense, telling moments.

After a period in which Blackburn came at Wigan with breakneck speed and panic-induced furiousness, the visitors began to earn themselves some possession. Having been run ragged in the first half and playing themselves into the ground during the second, perhaps the Rovers tank was running low on (vegetable oil) fuel. Whatever the case, Latics were now winning the ball in midfield and intent on playing the game at their own, deliberate pace. Our old friend Mr Moses was soon skipping past Blackburn defenders once more, and forced Paul Robinson into a scrambling double save – the visitors were again posing a real threat, maybe their greatest yet.

As if to confirm the shift in balance of power, Latics went close again some minutes later through Shaun Maloney. Emmerson Boyce sent in a telling cross from the Wigan right, but the Scot slightly mis-timed his jump and the subsequent header went agonisingly over Robinson’s crossbar. But you felt something was coming, and with less than 6 minutes of normal time to play, it would almost certainly be decisive.

Franco Di Santo had a busy first half

The excellent Franco Di Santo, who had played a role in all areas of the pitch for 85 minutes, was awarded a rest when Conor Sammon entered the fray for an obligatory cameo. His fresh legs would give the Wigan push an extra dimension, and Conor certainly played his part in irritating the Blackburn defence and helping play out the remaining time.

Latics wanted more than just a draw, however – their survival could be sealed mathematically here and now against an ailing Blackburn Rovers. Moses sent another dangerous ball across Robinson’s bows, and Sammon was less than a yard away from poking the ball home for what would now surely be the winner. Beausejour received the ball on the opposite wing and sent the ball back into the danger area, but with Moses still hanging around the back post, Blackburn could afford take no chances and cleared for a corner.

Moments later, the visitors would finally seize the opportunity to ensure safety. Jean Beausejour delivered the corner from the right, and Antolin Alcaraz rose highest at the back post to meet it. As the ball reached his goal line, Paul Robinson stuck out a hand to take the sting out of a strong header, but it was already too late – the ball had crossed the line and come to rest inside the goal netting. Wigan had made the 87th minute breakthrough against a weary Blackburn, and as a six-man Latics pile-on ensued, it slowly dawned that the fate of two north west neighbours had been decided in that moment.

The remaining seven minutes of play saw both Ewood Park and Blackburn’s resolve empty quicker than Venky’s at closing time. By the final whistle, those that remained were either partying Latics fans or angry protesters keen on making themselves heard. The situation at Rovers is a sad one, and it’s never pleasant to see such ill-tempered disagreement between fans and management. One can only hope, for the sake of Lancastrian football, that things are resolved and Blackburn take their rightful place in the Premier League once more, preferably at the first attempt.

We all have our own views on the state of Blackburn Rovers, but one thing Latics fans can agree on is how amazing a turnaround we have seen at Wigan Athletic in the second half of the season. We’re currently purveying a brand of pleasant, consistent football fans have been waiting almost three years to see, and whilst last night doesn’t necessarily represent the very best of Wigan’s finishing credentials, it was good enough to see us through. In the Premier League, that’s all that counts.

Roberto Martinez deserves some plaudits for sticking to his guns

Most astonishingly, Wigan will retain their place for the 2012-13 Premier League season. From rock bottom of the table in mid-March, when I’d have been more than happy with just a chance to stay up come 3pm on Sunday 13 May, a remarkable run has seen us safe even before the Wolves game. I don’t think anybody could have foreseen that, but some excellent football and a little bit of luck have guided us through to the fantastic position we are in.

And so Sunday, which always promised to be a tense relegation battle, may become party time. One more measly win would keep us in 15th, a place and one point ahead of last year’s performance; a final record of 11 wins, 10 draws and 17 losses would, ironically, match Blackburn’s achievements of 2010-11. Wolverhampton Wanderers, however, have fought for two well-earned draws in their previous games and will play with the freedom of knowing exactly where they will finish no matter what happens. Granted, that position is 20th, but I wouldn’t expect them to be quite the pushover that suggests. Having said that, I do think Wigan will win in front of a near-full house.

Victor Moses narrowly missed out on a hat-trick

Latics conjured up a magical 45 minutes of attacking football, most probably their greatest under Roberto Martinez, to completely pummel fourth-placed Newcastle into submission by half time. Victor Moses first headed home Emmerson Boyce’s deep cross on 12 minutes before doubling his tally less than 120 seconds later. Shaun Maloney expertly finished off another superb Latics passing move on 35 minutes, while Franco Di Santo’s precision chip from well outside the penalty area found the top right-hand corner of Tim Krul’s goal in first half stoppage time.

Martinez drafted the influential Shaun Maloney back into the starting lineup, and Franco Di Santo, rated ‘doubtful’ prior to the game, recovered from his knock last Saturday to retain the holding centre-forward berth. Yes, Roberto had the luxury of reverting to the lineup that conquered Liverpool, Stoke and Man United – and it positively paid dividends.

The home side were quick off the mark, earning themselves a couple of corners in the first five minutes with some forward-thinking football. Di Santo and Moses had subsequent shots blocked and saved respectively in a period that set the tone for the remaining 35 minutes or so of the first stanza. Of course, Newcastle weren’t without their moments; Emmerson Boyce brought down Cheick Tiote right on the edge of the Wigan area, but Yohan Cabaye’s probing cross could not be controlled by Papiss Cisse, at least not with a hassling Antolin Alcaraz in attendance.

There followed a brief break as Demba Ba picked up a niggle in a hefty challenge with Maynor Figueroa, and a revitalised Latics (or at least Victor Moses) seemed to emerge the other side having retrieved their finishing boots from the bench. Emmerson Boyce worked himself some space on the right wing and delivered a dangerous left-foot cross to the edge of the 6-yard box, where Victor Moses was waiting to head the ball past a helpless Krul. Latics hardly had time to celebrate before they had the ball in the Newcastle net once more; a Jean Beausejour ball in from the left channel was initially blocked, but Moses was again on hand to mop up the spoils and snaffle his sixth of the season.

Shaun Maloney was instrumental to Latics' midfield success Credit: Alasdair Middleton

In the blink of an eye, Wigan had assumed control of the contest much as they did at the Emirates less than two weeks ago. The previously boisterous travelling support were muted somewhat, but not completely - there was still plenty of time for the visitors to mount a comeback. They did their best to retaliate quickly, earning themselves a free kick 25 yards out. Hatem Ben Arfa went close with his attempt, but the Wigan faithful breathed a sigh of relief as the ball rebounded off the stanchion just behind Ali Al Habsi’s left hand post and into the advertising hoardings.

Though the Magpies pressed, Wigan were still snapping at their heels like a hungry Rottweiler. There was a liveliness about their play, a confidence typified by Ali Al Habsi as he provided a Moses-esque ‘scoop turn’ to defy an advancing Demba Ba. Al-Messi would have to be on his guard, however, for Newcastle were slowly finding their way back into the game. Though no real challenging shots on target were to ensue, the Omani would be called into action to field a succession of crosses and organise his defence – the expected Toon backlash could happen at any moment.

Latics resolved to slow the game down a might, playing the ball about the midfield with great success. Egged on by a vociferous East Stand, they pushed forward once more, and the eager Di Santo won back possession 30 yards from goal. The Argentine duly played the ball through to Maloney, who cut into the area from the right and finished in clinical fashion with his deadly right foot. Another sublime goal to add to the afternoon’s collection, and a deserved third of the campaign for the assiduous Scot. If Latics were in command before now, I suppose a third goal represented, dare I say it, domination? They certainly exhibited great mastery in their finishing, and a 3-0 lead did not flatter them at this stage.

Despite the scoreline, Wigan hearts missed a fair few beats just under two minutes later as James McCarthy lunged two-footed at Yohan Cabaye a few feet outside the South Stand penalty area. Referee Mike Dean reached for his back pocket… and pulled out a yellow card. A less lenient official may not have cut the Irishman so much slack, as the challenge definitely looked reckless in real-time. Though nothing came of the free kick, Newcastle were now throwing their whole weight behind the quest for at least one goal to get them back into the game.

There were one or two groans as the fourth official indicated four minutes of additional time at the end of the first half, as the visitors seemed to be in the ascendancy. In the past five minutes, Demba Ba had two opportunities and Yohan Cabaye had just sent another free kick over Al Habsi’s crossbar from 35 yards out. Wigan tension soon turned to (yet more) delight, however, as the Kings of the Counter struck once more.

Di Santo provided a skilful scoop to defeat Krul

When Franco Di Santo received the ball just outside the Newcastle area, thousands of people simultaneously cried “shoot,” and the Argentine duly obliged. Now, you know what usually happens in these situations – the ball goes flying miles over the bar, the crowd raise an embarrassed smirk and try to forget all about the incident. On days such as these, however, when absolutely everything you touch turns to gold, you suspected things might be a little different. When confidence is high and your luck’s in, that audacious chip destined for the far corner meets no barrier, and all you hear is the magnificent sound of ball hitting net followed by a rapturous cheer from three sides of the stadium. The phrase “taking the Mick” comes to mind.

As Mike Dean gave three shrill peeps of his whistle, you’d have thought it was for full time if the crowd’s response was anything to go by. Well, it was to be expected; it isn’t often you see Wigan score four goals in one half, but the stuff of fantasies once again became a reality for a glorious 49 minutes you’ll kick yourself for missing. And it wasn’t as if the visitors were mere passengers, either – it’s just that Wigan had the finishing touch and quality for which we’d been crying out for three quarters of the season.

After the Lord Mayor’s (Maynor’s?) Show of the first half, Wigan would have more than settled for a low-key second. Nothing much changed, as Newcastle continued to push desperately for that first goal and Wigan remained happy to play the ball among themselves. The hosts were also keen to attack, however, and left themselves vulnerable at the back, something the Magpies tried hard to capitalise upon. But they were soon to find it really was not their afternoon.

Latics actually looked even better than in the first half, a consequence of them being four goals ahead and Newcastle’s increased tendency to push defenders forward. Shaun Maloney could have scored direct from a highly dangerous corner, but Tim Krul was on hand to palm the cross away for a throw in. Di Santo also had a go before Victor Moses almost completed his hat-trick on the hour mark, but Krul was equal to the Nigerian’s effort with a super right-handed save.

Wigan had a succession of chances in the same attacking move shortly after as the Newcastle goalmouth came under great pressure. Beausejour played the ball through to Moses, whose initial shot was blocked. However, the ball fell nicely for Di Santo, who also had an effort but there were too many legs packing the area for it to squeeze through. Though James McCarthy found the ball at his feet, he too saw a strike deflect off a limb, perhaps a torso, and rebound away for a throw in.

Newcastle had their own ‘how did that not go in?’ moment soon after, as Papiss Cisse’s left-foot volley narrowly failed to find the goal thanks to some Al Habsi acrobatics. They may have been four goals down, but their ambition was stronger than ever; minds were cast back to that amazing afternoon at St James’ Park last season, when the Toon scored four goals in the final 25 minutes to draw 4-4 with Arsenal. Could they do it again?

James McArthur was Wigan's chief puppetmaster, pulling the strings in midfield

Franco Di Santo, who put in an awesome shift, was given a hearty round of applause as he left the field to be replaced by Conor Sammon on 68 minutes. Former Latics man Ryan Taylor was also introduced for the threatening Ben Arfa, but not before the Frenchman set up Cisse for a great opportunity six yards from goal. His header smacked into the post, however, and the visitors were denied a deserved goal once again. Yes, this definitely wasn’t Newcastle’s day.

After a spate of substitutions around the 82 minute mark, the game visibly began to die out. There was still time for a Conor Sammon opportunity to make it five, however, as the Irishman found himself one-on-one with Tim Krul. He actually managed to round the keeper, but could not poke the ball past Coloccini, who cleared off the line to deny Sammon his first strike of the season. Latics are not greedy, though. They will more than settle for a four goal win, especially considering an edgy draw would have represented a decent return against a top-four side. And hey, you can hardly complain about a clean sheet, especially when your opponents hit the woodwork twice.

As the final whistle blew, news filtered through that both Bolton and Villa had drawn their games with Sunderland and West Brom respectively. The upshot is that Latics move back up to 16th in the table and restore their three point cushion to the drop zone. With Blackburn and QPR both facing tough tests tomorrow afternoon, Wigan could be in a healthy position by the time they visit Ewood Park a week on Monday. Bolton have yet another game in hand, though, and are now unbeaten in three. A win over Tottenham on Wednesday would really spice things up, wouldn’t it?

This evening, however, shall be set aside for celebration, and reflection upon what is quite possibly Wigan’s finest performance in the Premier League, certainly under Martinez. And that coming after fantastic wins over Man United, Arsenal and Liverpool in recent weeks. The football this afternoon was scintillating, a passing masterclass with some wonderful goals and outstanding saves to top it all off. It deserves further praise, especially considering Wigan’s current position in the table; a team battling against relegation producing some of the best football in the league, against the best England has to offer. You may ask, “where did that come from?” The answer lies somewhere in between Catalonia and the north of England via Nigeria, Scotland and Argentina, to name but a few stopping-off points.

To put it simply, this could well be the making of Roberto Martinez as a manager.

Emmerson Boyce's corker was not enough to earn Latics a point

Wigan saw their cushion to the relegation zone cut to just three points as Philippe Senderos headed the Cottagers to an 89th minute victory over a labouring Latics. After a cagey first half, the hosts dominated proceedings and finished the game great value for their three points. Although Emmerson Boyce had put the visitors ahead with an excellent strike on 57 minutes, Fulham retaliated immediately through Pogrebnyak and never looked back.

In comparison to recent hectic contests, the first half was a relatively serene affair. Both sides threatened, but not enough to warrant a goal; though Fulham edged proceedings in terms of shots on goal and possession, Wigan weren’t without their own chances. The biggest talking point of the half came in the very first minute, when Clint Dempsey was upended just inside the Wigan area by Gary Caldwell. Referee Lee Mason decided the challenge wasn’t worthy of a penalty, but I’m sure the 25,000 Fulham fans inside Craven Cottage would beg to differ.

Jordi Gomez, scorer of the winning goal at Arsenal, was responsible for all but one of Wigan’s first-half attempts. I don’t know if Martinez told him to shoot on sight, but he seemed eager to try and test Mark Schwarzer in the Fulham goal. Gomez did so on two occasions, but neither strike was enough to beat the Australian. Perhaps Wigan’s best chance fell to Victor Moses, who, after working his way into the Fulham are, just could not find the power and placement to challenge the keeper, who pouched it quite comfortably.

The host had their moments, and Ali Al Habsi had to be alert during Fulham’s frequent visits to his penalty area. Not to be caught out, the Omani was quick to smother anything that came close to the Wigan goalmouth, and first repelled Dempsey before safely catching a series of crosses (and one cross-cum-shot).

Jordi Gomez went closest for the Latics early in the second half

If the first period was relatively even, the hosts certainly had the better of the second. As the game progressed Fulham began to assert control, settling down into some decent possession. But their efforts were hampered by Emmerson Boyce’s fine finish on 56, a sweet right-foot strike into the bottom right corner of Schwarzer’s goal. Undeterred, the hosts responded in the best way possible – by going straight up the other end and chalking up an equally brilliant goal. Pogrebnyak’s snorter from outside the area left Al Habsi stuck to the spot, and the game was level within a minute of the restart.

From then on it was all Fulham, who were suddenly skipping past Wigan players with alarming ease. They were unlucky not have gone ahead shortly after their equaliser as Pogrebnyak narrowly failed to convert John Arne Riise’s cross, the ball crashing off the underside of the crossbar before spinning off the line. Was this going to be another fortunate afternoon for Latics? Al Habsi’s goalmouth certainly led a charmed life for the best part of 30 minutes; John Arne Riise forced the Omani into a save before the dangerous Pogrebnyak hit the woodwork once again. Although Wigan tightened their midfield in response, the introduction of Ben Watson could not turn the tide and the Cottagers continued to push for that winner. The Wigan defence, however, held firm(ish).

Latics suffered a blow when Franco Di Santo sustained a 32nd minute injury. He was replaced by Conor Sammon.

Just as Latics were beginning to smell an extremely useful away point, the home side finally broke through. Emmerson Boyce, hailed as the hero less than half an hour earlier, turned villain as he conceded a free kick in dangerous territory with under two minutes of normal time to play. Senderos rose to head Riise’s cross past Al Habsi and Fulham had a more than deserved lead. It proved decisive, as Wigan could not muster anything of note in what little time remained.

For the first time in a good few weeks, Wigan had been outplayed and it took mid-table Fulham to show the big boys how it’s done. Latics were hard-working as usual but experienced a great deal of luck – even Boyce’s goal had an element of fortune about it when the ball rebounded favourably for the Barbadian international. Fulham were the better team and 2-1 is a fair reflection of the afternoon’s events.

Latics could not bring influential figures like Shaun Maloney and Victor Moses into play. The former did not have the luxury of a full 90 minutes, coming back from injury as he was, but proved largely ineffective in his 35 minutes on the pitch. Perhaps the effects of such a tough run of games finally caught up with Wigan, but Fulham must take all credit for their victory, which they thoroughly deserved.

Three points is the gap to 18th, three games remain. Two of them are with Wolves and Blackburn, matches that may ultimately, as expected, decide the outcome of the relegation scrap. First, however, on-form Newcastle travel to the DW for what could be a highly important contest – a Wigan win could see them all but safe. But Bolton, who still have two games in hand, will have something to say about that. You see, there are so many permutations that you could easily be confused, so it’s best to concentrate on one’s own game. The good news is that, as I type, Wigan’s survival is still in their own hands.

Back on the scoresheet: Franco Di Santo

Latics may still have been savouring the sweet scent of victory over the Champions elect, but they headed into this game with on-song Arsenal full in the knowledge their survival race was far from over. With other relegation-threatened teams having failed to make much ground on Saturday, however, this was essentially a ‘free hit’ – Wigan could play with the confidence that anything gained would be a bonus, and a highly useful one at that. Of course, it wouldn’t be easy; the Gunners rarely drop points at the Emirates Stadium, especially not to Wigan. The last time Latics even so much as scored away to Arsenal was through Denny Landzaat more than five years ago, and that was an exceptional effort.

Games, however, are rarely decided on history. More recently, Latics have beaten Manchester United and Liverpool, and run Chelsea very close on their own bidding. That Gunners also lost to QPR less than one month ago provided further hope something may just be available. But they couldn’t win, could they? Another three points against a top-four team would be too much to ask, wouldn’t it?

The night started on a low note as news filtered through that United conqueror Shaun ‘Only‘ Maloney would not be fit to take his place in the starting lineup. The man he ousted from the first team, Jordi Gomez, would fill the gaping void as Franco Di Santo’s support striker-cum-midfielder-cum-Jack Russell Terrier. As it happened, he did so rather well.

The match began at a frightful pace, with Arsenal firing three shots at the Latics goal within the first six minutes. Ali Al Habsi expertly palmed Yossi Benayoun’s strike over the bar to deny the Israeli yet another goal against Wigan, and you got the feeling this might just be a very long night in London. What transpired in the next three minutes, however, was nothing short of remarkable.

Jordi 'on the Spot' Gomez grabbed what proved to be the winner

In the sixth minute of the game, Robin van Persie played in an average corner which James McCarthy was able to head clear with some comfort at the front post. Further good work from the Irishman ensured the ball found its way to Jordi Gomez just short of the halfway line, and Di Santo was already starting his marauding solo run into the opposition half. Gomez sprinted down the Arsenal right before playing the ball across three defenders straight to his Argentine team-mate, whose initial shot was only half blocked by Szczesny. The ball fell nicely for the ex-Chelsea man, who could volley home from close range for his first goal in what seems like months – probably because it was. The Emirates was stunned silence as Di Santo wheeled away with his team-mates to celebrate his fifth goal of the campaign, and boy was it richly deserved.

Incredibly, it was about to get even better for Latics. The Gunners barely had time to think before Victor Moses was causing problems for Bacary Sagna at right back, jinking his way past the Frenchman with an exquisite turn that would fool even the best of international defenders. Moses delivered the ball to James McArthur at the near post, but the Scot found himself crowded out by two Arsenal defenders. He did manage to squeeze the ball across the six yard box, however, and Jordi Gomez was waiting to bundle the ball home at the second attempt. Though Szczesny was equal to his first effort, the ball fell wonderfully for Gomez, who just had to tap home with his left foot.

If the Emirates faithful were stunned by the first goal, they must have been in shock at the sight of Little Wigan going 2-0 up within eight minutes. For Latics, it really was the stuff of dreams, a magical start they couldn’t have imagined in their wildest fantasies. But this was no time to relax, for the next 35 minutes would be some of the toughest this team have ever had to endure. Though James McCarthy and Gomez had efforts to make it 3-0, the home side soon had them well and truly on the back foot, setting up camp somewhere just outside the Wigan penalty area. Gary Caldwell first made a double clearance before Benayoun drew another top-drawer save from Al Habsi. This was even better than his first, an acrobatic leap topped with an efficient right-hand punch to send the ball over the bar.

Ali Al Habsi was superb as usual in the first half, but had little to do in the second

By the 18th minute, Wigan already had eleven men behind the ball to prevent Arsenal’s ten-strong attack line from breaking through. The problem with having so many men back is that no matter how many times you clear the ball, you know there’s a good chance it will be coming straight back at you. Although Victor Moses had a bit of an effort, the Gunners were soon back in the Latics half and baying for blood. Unfortunately for the visitors, their two goal cushion did not last much longer as Thomas Vermaelen finally made the pressure count. Tomas Rosicky delivered a dangerous cross from the right, and the Belgian spied his chance to powerfully head home from 12 yards.

At this rate, Wigan would do well to see the game through to half time with their lead intact. Robin van Persie made Al Habsi work once again, while Djourou and Rosicky also spurned chances of a shot on target within the next ten minutes. In fact, the pressure would continue right up to the break, with Santos and van Persie trying their luck, but fortunately to no avail. Wigan could not break free, and though they stemmed the tide as the half wore on, the hosts simply would not let up. Latics managed to repel a couple of free kicks in threatening positions to cling on to their slender advantage as the referee mercifully blew for half time.

The second period, as one might expect, saw more of the same – the home side pushing with all their might, the visitors looking to catch them out on the break. But after an initial onslaught which saw another Santos attempt successfully cleared, Wigan did manage to claw back at least some control and enjoy a bit more possession. Naturally, 60,000 Arsenal supporters were well and truly on their case, abusing Latics for each and every semblance of time wasting they dared to exhibit. Ref Andre Marriner would not be swayed and kept his cards in his pocket, for the time being at least.

Is Victor Moses gradually becoming the next N'Zogbia?

The game slowly began to open up as the home side threw absolutely everything they had into the search for an equaliser. Victor Moses was an ever-present threat on the right wing, and proved highly effective in one-on-one situations. He worked his magic to cut into the Arsenal area before firing across Szczesny, who did well to repel the Nigerian’s shot surely destined for the corner of his goal. Moses also engineered an even better chance, battling his way to a one-on-one with the Arsenal keeper, but could not steer the ball past Szczesny from just inside the area. Consensus is that perhaps another touch would have served him better on this occasion, but his effort on the night really cannot be faulted otherwise.

Cue more trading of shots; Aaron Ramsay headed over before Jordi Gomez did likewise with his (weaker) right foot. The sides also made a substitution each, with Oxlade-Chamberlain and Conor Sammon replacing Johan Djourou and Franco Di Santo respectively. Wigan’s joint leading scorer for the season left the pitch to a highly undeserved chorus of boos, as he had put in another sterling effort in the centre-forward holding role for his side. He did play for Chelsea, though, so he wasn’t ever going to get a warm reception in these parts of Greater London.

Momo Diame replaced Wigan’s other goalscorer, Jordi Gomez, shortly after as the game entered its final five minutes of normal time. With two pairs of fresh legs on the pitch, the real time-eating effort began in earnest as both subs played for the corners. Ali Al Habsi received a yellow card for deliberating over a defensive free kick far too long for the referee’s (and the crowd’s) liking, and you can’t say it was undeserved. Arsene Wenger certainly agreed, and went to great pains to ensure the fourth official added extra time for the Omani’s cynical exploits. It was a final kick in the teeth when he neglected to do so, but Arsenal’s frustration was summed up some eight minutes earlier when Figueroa pushed a rampaging Theo Walcott to the ground just outside the Wigan area. It was a clear yellow card offense, but Marriner declined to award even a free kick. This really wasn’t to be Arsenal’s night.

McCarthy and McArthur (pictured) put in a great effort in the heart of midfield

And so the final whistle blew with Wigan –specifically Sammon– in possession. They kept the ball effectively in the final ten minutes of the match proper and saw through a potentially nervy period with relative ease. The Gunners had given everything they had and more, but it was not enough to penetrate that resolute Wigan defence in the second half. The end result was that Latics had beaten Arsenal in London for the first time, and deservedly so. Despite some very ropey moments in the first half, they played well as a team, more than matched their opponents in every area of the pitch over the course of 95 minutes and left the Emirates great value for their three precious points.

This is quite possibly the richest vain of form Wigan Athletic have experienced since Roberto Martinez took over some three years ago, and my goodness is it timely. Whilst losing to Arsenal, Man United and Liverpool wouldn’t necessarily have relegated us by now, things would have been looking rather dodgy to say the least. Four wins in five games mean Latics now have a genuine chance of achieving safety before the final-day clash with Wolves, and nobody, not even the most optimistic of Ticsmen would have anticipated that even a month ago. “Beat Man U and Arsenal within five days? You must be delusional.” I guess there can great wisdom in positive thinking after all.

It must be reiterated that there is still much work to do. With four games to play, Wigan’s cushion to the dropzone stands at five points, but Bolton have two games in hand and that game at Ewood Park remains a crucial encounter. There are four teams still fighting to stay afloat, and you can bet your life they’ll be charging into their remaining games at full pelt in a bid to scrape vital points. The good news for Wigan is that their future is now in their own hands – match or better the results of QPR, Bolton and Blackburn and that dream of an eighth season in the Premier League will become a reality.

Next up is Fulham at Craven Cottage, and it promises to be a tough encounter. There again, considering Wigan’s recent form, points certainly aren’t out of the question. To ask for another win might be a bit greedy, but a consolidating point would be great against a team unbeaten in three games. The most important thing is to ensure we don’t get too carried away – this still ain’t over, folks.

Phil Dowd and his team of officials didn't have the best of games

Shaun Maloney’s sublime second-half strike sunk league leaders Manchester United to lift Latics out of the relegation zone for the first time in 2012. Victor Moses earlier had a goal disallowed in controversial circumstances, but fortune fell firmly in favour of Wigan as replays strongly indicated that the corner leading to the in-form Scot’s goal was incorrectly awarded. United were also denied a penalty in the latter part of the second half when Maynor Figueroa seemed to collapse upon himself, handling the ball on his way to the ground. The hosts repelled everything a below-par United had to throw at them, however, and emerged worthy winners on the evening.

Latics, unchanged for the fifth straight game, started superbly and hit United with four or five set pieces in the opening ten minutes. It wasn’t exactly an onslaught, though James McCarthy did draw a seventh minute tip over the bar from David De Gea. No goals, but certainly a moral victory for the home side, who fearlessly continued to come at Man United as the half progressed. They were almost undone, however, by a Ryan Giggs cross which could easily have found one of two United men at the back post, but Figueroa was on hand to crucially deflect the ball behind for a corner.

The hosts settled into a great period of possession and, dare I say it, control. What, against the Champions elect? You’d better believe it. This fact could easily have been bolstered on 28 minutes when Latics had the ball in the net, and it definitely wasn’t against the run of play. Victor Moses’s joy was short lived, however, as the assistant referee had already flagged for a Gary Caldwell foul on De Gea. It was more a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time for the Scottish stalwart, who was stood right in the keeper’s path as Moses headed home Shaun Maloney’s excellent corner from short range.

Undeterred, Latics resumed their pressing game. Though the visitors finished the half stronger, they had only a wayward Wayne Rooney strike to show for it and, somewhat remarkably, Wigan went into the break having had the better of the half. Even more incredible, however, was the 45 minutes (well, 50 if we’re being picky) of tense and exciting action to come.

Mr Whelan once again stated that video technology should be introduced

Following the unfortunate events of Saturday, many Latics fans will have been aggrieved that yet another marginal linesman’s decision had gone against them. All talk post-Chelsea was of how fortune tends to “even itself out” over the course of the season, but that this generally doesn’t happen for the smaller sides. Indeed, Dave Whelan seemed to agree with this sentiment yesterday evening in a post-match interview with BBC Five Live, but then he is a bit of a moaner at times isn’t he? Much like myself, I suppose. Uncle Dave spoke, however, in full knowledge that a substantial amount of karma rebalancing had been played out in front of his very eyes at the DW Stadium that evening.

Wigan made the breakthrough on 49 minutes. Beausejour, throwing himself into a challenge with Phil Jones, won his side a somewhat fortunate corner on the United right. I presume Phil Dowd, being closest to the incident, made the decision but it was a difficult one to judge from where he was stood. Faced with a 50% chance of a correct decision, he got it wrong, and how costly it proved to be for the visitors. From the corner, Maloney played a one-two with Beausejour, jinked past Rooney and worked his way across the edge of the penalty area before wrapping his right foot around a wonderfully struck curler past De Gea in the North Stand goal. The former Celtic frontman now has two for the season, and both have been central to Wigan’s survival charge, coming as they have in wins over top-8 teams. Could he be the answer to our search for a regular goal-getter? Or will Latics stay up with their top scorer having netted just four goals? That must be a record of some sort.

The contentious decisions weren’t over just yet. Jonny Evans could count himself lucky to remain on the pitch after a late challenge on Maloney was deemed not bad enough for the Northern Irishman to receive a second yellow card. Poor Maloney, in the past couple of weeks he’s been kicked, punched and scythed to the ground with absolutely no sympathy – mind you, he’s not the sort of guy to complain about it, and if his pride was hurt, that goal yesterday will almost certainly ease the pain.

Wayne Rooney, who had a relatively rare off-game, was withdrawn on 65 minutes

Both sides made substitutions as the game started to take a significant shift towards the visitors. Danny Welbeck replaced the quiet Javier Hernandez, while Luis Nani was also introduced in favour of Wayne Rooney, much to the crowd’s delight. It was somewhat surprising given his ability to turn games with magical moments we’re all so familiar with, but it really hadn’t been his night. He took his place on the bench to see cramp-afflicted Franco Di Santo switched with MoMo Diame, who’s carved something of a niche as a highly useful pair of fresh legs late in the game. It’s a tactic Martinez has always seemed to favour, especially with such quality ready and able to hit the opposition late on. Indeed, Diame has worked some real opportunities in the role this past month or so (with varying success, of course), and tonight would be no exception. More on that later on.

With less than twenty minutes to play, the visitors felt compelled to push for that equaliser, and enjoyed a decent amount of possession in the Latics half. It was their best period of play all evening, and could very well have resulted in a goal or two. But Latics, and indeed the officials, had other ideas. Phil Jones delivered a cross from the United right, but the ball’s path was blocked by Figueroa, who got in a complete mess and collapsed in a heap just outside the six-yard box. The ball clearly hit the Honduran’s outstretched left arm, but for some reason the very same linesman that ruled out Moses’s first half header was highly reluctant to award the penalty. Dowd must also have been ‘unsighted’, and though United went ballistic, no decision was forthcoming from either party.

The hosts were cut a further break when some manhandling of Welbeck just inside the Latics area went unseen shortly after, and fortune really was starting to balance itself out. Of course, I expected this process to take place over the course of a few games at the very least, but it all seemed to happen in one manic half of football.

It wasn’t all United, however. Wigan had three definitive opportunities to double their lead and put the game beyond doubt in the final ten minutes, first through Moses, then Diame, then Moses again. The first chance was all Victor’s doing; the former England U21 international skipped past numerous defenders on his way from the halfway line to the opposition six-yard box before striking across goal and drawing a save from De Gea. Not long after, Conor Sammon embarked on a similar run on the left flank, charging to the United byline before laying the ball off to MoMo Diame. Though his shot was blocked, the ball rebounded to the feet of Moses, who had an even better chance to stick it away but his strike deflected off the leg of Ryan Giggs and out for a corner.

Maynor Figueroa: Saint/sinner?

There was still ample time for one or two jitters in the Latics area. Danny Welbeck had United’s best chance of the game eight minutes from time, but Ali Al Habsi was equal to the England international’s strike. It was a better save than it looked, especially considering he’d previously had nothing to do but punch the ball clear a grand total of one time.

That Man U failed to trouble the Wigan goalmouth for great chunks of the game was partially their own fault, but Wigan’s defence must take a great deal of credit. ‘That’ incident aside, Maynor Figueroa was the last ditch master as usual, Antolin Alcaraz was commanding both at the back and in joining the midfield, and Gary Caldwell was, well, Gary Caldwell. Each contributed significantly to the rearguard effort with important clearances in those final ten minutes, which the visitors spent camped well inside the Wigan half.

The hosts saw out a relatively incident-free five minutes of stoppage time, and the stadium, perhaps even the whole town, erupted – Latics had done it. In all their years as a Football League club, they had never even taken so much as a point against Manchester United – it was the one victory missing from the Wigan Premier League record book. More than that, it’s a win that means so much to Latics supporters, who’ve spent so long living in the shadow of their monumentally successful near-neighbours. Whilst a single win over them won’t change the fact Latics are battling against relegation and United challenging for the title, that all seems irrelevant right now because Wigan have beaten Manchester United. Say it out loud to yourself one more time, because it really is worth repeating. As you utter those magical words, think of all those hammerings they’ve dealt us in years past, the pain we’ve suffered at their hands. Revenge feels good, don’t it?

Contrast the events of last night to an afternoon in November. The officials had a similarly poor game against Blackburn, but Wigan failed to capitalise on their domination as both attack and defence struggled to impose themselves:

Latics really can’t buy a win at the moment, and it’s looking increasingly likely they’ll have to steal points from the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United to be in with a sniff of survival this season. — 19 November 2011

Those dodgy JWAW post-match scribblings reflected my own dejectedness at another game without a win. I cast my mind forward to this very week, what would surely be the greatest test of our credentials, in anticipation of a highly stressful end-of-season run-in. Whilst that may still prove to be the case (it usually is with Latics), Wigan Athletic are certainly far better equipped for the fight than back in November, and it’s a flipping good job. Why does it always take us 28 games to get the engine started, eh?

Momo Diame: a solution to the finishing problem?

Wigan were mere moments away from hauling themselves out of the relegation zone, but Juan Mata popped up on 92 minutes to rob the Latics of a draw. Controversy reigned as an offside Branislav Ivanović goal was inexplicably allowed to stand by the linesman, but a cracking strike from MoMo Diame put Wigan back on level terms with six minutes to play. The visitors, chasing a late winner, left themselves a little light at the back and Juan Mata scrambled the ball over the goal line deep into injury time to steal the points.

Latics more than held their own in the first period, causing problems principally through Victor Moses. Prowling in the opposition half, he fed on the odd Chelsea mis-kick and battled for the ball well. Franco Di Santo, too, did some great hold-up work to support the midfield which enjoyed a decent percentage of possession. Indeed, it was just over a minute of the game before Wigan had their first attempt at goal- a Shaun Maloney strike that sailed well wide of Cech’s right hand post, but it was a signal of intent from the visitors.

The sides exchanged shots, and although Chelsea’s time on the ball was spent mostly in Wigan territory, they trailed in terms of strikes on target going into the latter part of the half. Victor Moses and Maynor Figueroa had long-range shots, but both were comfortably saved by Petr Cech. Al Habsi, by contrast, had a bit more work to do with his saves, and was drawn into three superb stops before the half was out. Cahill, Mata, Sturridge and Drogba all tried, but could not breach the impenetrable Omani wall.

The second half continued in much the same vain as the first had ended with the Pensioners in the ascendancy. Al Habsi was drawn into yet another fantastic save from Drogba, but Chelsea’s finishing would only deteriorate from this point onwards. The 62 minute mark saw the game’s first real talking point. Ivanović converted Meireles’ cross from short range, but was stood two yards offside when the ball was crossed. The linesman, seemingly unsighted, would not budge despite the entire Latics backline sticking their arms in the air as soon as Meireles made contact with the ball. Upon a ‘gentle’ suggestion by pretty much the entire Wigan team, referee Mike Jones re-consulted with his assistant before ruling his indecision final.

The game’s dynamic changed almost instantly. Chelsea, previously pushing with great gusto, could now afford to enjoy time on the ball and see out the remaining 20 minutes or so. Not to be denied, Wigan made a double change which saw MoMo Diame and Ben Watson enter the fray, and the chase for that equaliser was on. Things didn’t work out right away, however, and Wigan were lucky not to have conceded a penalty when the ball hit Caldwell on the elbow of his outstretched left arm. Cald has made a bit of a habit of conceding handball pens this season, but considering the linesman forgot to bring his glasses we could say at least something went our way this afternoon. Just to further blot his copybook, Fernando Torres was erroneously given offside shortly after, but I didn’t hear many inside Stamford Bridge calling for the guy’s head.

Initially frustrated, Latics began to work themselves back into the game by winning possession in the opposition half. Not long after, justice was finally served as Mohamed Diame had the ball resting in Cech’s goal. He cut across the edge of the area, spotted his chance to shoot and let fly with a sweetly struck left-footed attempt that was never destined for anywhere other than the back of the net.

Al Habsi, the game's *real* outstanding performer

The game was perfectly set up for a grandstand finish, and both sides weighed in with their own efforts before the game was over. Fernando Torres was a pain in the Wigan backside, constantly stealing in behind the advanced defensive line, and when he managed to stay on his feet (think you need some longer studs there, Fernando), he was the source of one or two headaches. But the finish simply wasn’t there – all efforts either went flying way over the bar or were parried away by Al Habsi who, by the way, was the man of the match by far. Of course, he was on the losing team so that accolade will probably go to Ivanović or someone.

The game entered 4 minutes of stoppage time. Latics, sensing a late winner, surged forward once more. Gary Caldwell got away a strike at the back post, but it bobbled up and into the waiting arms of Petr Cech, who quickly bowled the ball out. As Wigan were short of numbers at the back, this was a real chance for the hosts to finally chalk up a (fair) goal for all their attacking endeavours. Torres delivered the cross, which worked its way to the back post where three Chelsea men were poised to strike. Juan Mata only had to gently tap the ball over the goal line, and Chelsea had pinched the game with less than two minutes to play.

It’s somewhat unfortunate that our willingness to attack in those final minutes was ultimately our downfall. Considering results elsewhere, a draw would have been an excellent result – it would have lifted us three places to the heady heights of 16th, but someone up there is adamant that Wigan make no progress in the Premier League table. Personally, I’d be happy with us staying in the dropzone as long as we’re out of it following our game with Wolves at the DW, but recent performances have certainly warranted some sort of visible reward.

Wigan didn’t really do too much wrong. I could sit here and write about how they should have held on for the draw, but the result of today’s game swung on the finest of sharp edges. One second Latics were a shot away from all three points, and less than half a minute later we were left with nothing but disappointment to show for what was another great away performance. The game certainly left a bad taste in the normally jovial Roberto Martinez’s mouth:

It is unfortunate we have to speak about [the Ivanovic goal] … The performance was outstanding, but we’ll unfortunately get headlines about the decisions… It brings an unfair feeling to the dressing room. The linesman had a poor day, he couldn’t see simple calls… You shouldn’t give decisions just because they are against Wigan, you should give them because they are correct. The ref was let down by the linesman.

[We] deserved a positive result, and that pleases me. We came with intention of winning the game, and were looking a real threat going forward. We got done on the counter in a very unfair situation … But the important thing to me is the manner we performed. — Roberto Martinez speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live

It’s certainly hard to disagree, especially considering Chelsea’s second goal was also technically (by which I mean certainly) offside. To (further?) complain about such things would be bitter, however, so we should now concentrate on Wednesday’s showdown with Champions elect Man United. Perhaps we might experience a bit more luck at our own gaff? I suggest we’ll probably need it if we are to get something from that game, but if we show the same team spirit and endeavour, we’re definitely in with a sniff.