Latics drop another three points

Athletic dropped another three points in their encounter at Vale Park, the graveyard for the Latics who have lost so many games there over recent seasons. Their display was inconsistent but they had enough chances to score 4 or 5 goals. The referee once again became the centre of attention and he issued too many yellow cards whilst missing many infractions like the early lunge that put paid to Craig Rocastle. The game was always there for the taking and it was a huge huge blow to lose Stam, particularly as Vale scored their first goal directly from that area. That incident alone was the turning point that saw the Latics chances go up in smoke.

Even manager John Sheridan was banished to the stands and, to make things even worse, the Latics had keeper Les Pogliacomi sent off thirteen minutes from time. Surely, that red card must be one of the most reversable decisions ever! Chris Porter (pictured) scooped a header over at the back post and then missed a sitter after Will Haining had knocked on Andy Liddell's corner. Is it time to give Porter a rest? His performance last night suggests not as he is still eager to succeed and his manner at the end of the game intimated that he is raring to go against Bournemouth on Saturday. The result sums up just how unlucky it is to make your 3rd. sub just before your keeper gets sent off. Vale Park has to be Oldham's curse!