The Latics put in a very workman-like performance against run-away league leaders Bristol City at Boundary Park yesterday. It was a performance that deserved more than a share of the spoils as Dean Holden's men fought back from a 1-0 deficit to almost clinching the three points. Had it not been for the visiting keeper pulling off a string of good saves it would have been a different story. Aaron Wilbraham gave the visitors the lead with only 20 minutes left but Carl Winchester struck again soon after, having come on as substitute.
Holden said after the game, “I thought we deserved to win on the day. We created some good chances in the game and their goalkeeper has made two or three outstanding saves. It was an exciting game and I enjoyed it. We made a decision that we sat off MK Dons too much and we allowed them to dictate. We made a decision that we were going to go after them. They play three at the back and we were going to throw three up there and really go for them and that really showed in the performances. We asked for extra effort before kick off and we knew what they would bring but aside from that they do have a lot of energy and a lot of work rate. Steve Cotterill demands that of everyone of them and we knew that was going to be the challenge but the lads stood up to it.”
“The subs that came on were good and we lost Forte at the end and ended up with ten men which required even more effort. But, on the whole, it was very pleasing. That goal from Winchester was his fourth this season. It was a great strike. He has got it out of his feet and done that a few times this season and he has that in his locker. It was one of a few very good chances in the game and it was a pleasing performance. Gerrard just felt a little bit of tightness in his muscle and we needed to get James Wilson on. It was good to have James and Mills back out there as well. Jonathan has took a whack to his knee so we will have to see how he is from it. We were about to take Luke Woodland off but he went up for a header and landed a bit awkwardly so he's got a bag of ice on there and we will see how he is.”