The Latics kicked off their pre-season build up with a friendly game at neighbours Mossley where they recorded a 3-0 success. The workout was won at a canter with goals from Robbie Simpson (pen), Matt Smith and Youssouf M'Changama. The visitors went in at the half with Simpson's spot kick the only marker and boss Paul Dickov made 10 changes for the second half in an attempt to give everyone, including trialists, a fair crack. James Tarkowski was the only player from the first half which started the second period.
Matt Smith made it 2-0 just two minutes into the second half when he hit a shot low to the left of Mossley keeper. Smith had other chances to increase the lead but it was left to M'Changama to get the third goal in the last minute when he deflected a shot wide of the startled keeper. Carl Winchester was the only casualty of the night when he limped off with 10 minutes to go. He was replaced by Connor Brown.