The Latics host top of the table Portsmouth this weekend, where they will be looking to cause an upset. Historically, this tie has been extremely close and that trend is set to continue this weekend.
Wigan
Without the eight point deduction to their tally before the season started, Wigan would be in the top half of the table and applying pressure to the sides in the play-off spots. However, they sit in 21st place on five points, despite winning four games, drawing one and losing three. Shaun Maloney’s side have experienced an end to end game in almost every fixture this season and goals are guaranteed, as they average an overall goals total of 3.13 per game. Wigan have played three games at the DW Stadium this season and they’ve won two of them, which puts them in a solid position ahead of the weekend.
Last time out, they suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat on the road to Bristol Rovers. Wigan held their own in the first half despite going into the break 2-1 down. However, in the second half, they struggled to create and were vulnerable to the counter attack, which lead to the two additional Rovers goals.
Portsmouth
Pompey lead the way at the top of the League One table after a run of nine games unbeaten. John Mousinho’s side have perfected the perfect system that allows for attacking threat and defensive stability, which is backed up by the statistics, as they’ve scored the second most amount of goals and conceded the least. On their travels, Portsmouth have won 50% of their matches with their most recent victory coming in the 3-2 clash with Barnsley.
Portsmouth’s most recent match saw them claim another win. This time, it was a 2-1 victory over Lincoln at home. Pompey conceded in the 5th minute but they bounced back instantly, with Paddy Lane equalising in the 8th minute. Regan Poole then gave the hosts the lead just before the half time whistle. Mousinho’s side continued to dominate in the second half but they were unable to extend their lead.
Verdict?
The visitors are the favourites to claim all three points but Wigan will be desperate to get back on track. We should see goals in this game and both teams will likely score. Pompey have so much momentum and they look unbeatable at the minute.
The final prediction is Wigan 1-2 Portsmouth
