David Dunn took a solid point away from his first home game in charge of Oldham, but believes his side could have gone on to claim a crucial victory against ten-man Wigan.
Dominic Poleon’s first goal of the season cancelled out Max Power’s opener after Jordan Flores was dismissed for kicking out at Jay Fulton.
The hosts had the better of the late chances but couldn’t grab a winner, earning Dunn his second consecutive 1-1 tie and forcing playoff contenders Wigan into their first draw since the middle of August.
Oldham, meanwhile, are winless since that time having failed to score twice in a game all season, and Dunn believes the hoodoo could easily have ended on Saturday.
“At the end, there was only one team that was going to go on and win it,” said the interim boss after the match.
“With a bit more patience at times in our build up play and using that extra man, we could have gone on and got the three points.”
“I’m pleased with a point in the end. Nevertheless, I am a little disappointed that we didn’t come away with all three.”
Loanees Fulton and Michael Higdon made their debuts during the derby while captain Liam Kelly returned from injury, giving Dunn a wider scope of options to pick from.
At this early stage of Dunn’s spell at Boundary Park, he believes there is much more to come from his players as more confidence is instilled in them.
Latics travel to 12th-placed Port Vale on Tuesday night, and with no fresh injury concerns the 35-year-old can focus on tactical preparation.
“We need to take a few more risks; I still think we are playing within ourselves a little bit at times. But I’m sure that – over the weeks – that will come.
“In terms of the endeavour and commitment from everyone, I could not have asked for more. I thought all of the substitutes made an impact, so that was pleasing.”
Having spurned the extra man advantage Latics may look back at the derby as two points dropped, but their positive second-half performance as well as Dunn’s confidence will stand the side in good stead as they attempt to climb away from the relegation zone.
Image courtesy of Wigan Athletic via YouTube, with thanks.
