Wigan Athletic could beat the drop once again this season following their slender 1-0 victory over Norwich City at the DW Stadium this afternoon.
It was a slow start from the home side, who were held to a goalless draw at half-time, but it was Arouna Kone who managed to take his opportunity in the second 45 minutes to secure victory.
In contrast, the Canaries are now just four points above the drop zone in the Premier League and are in danger of playing Championship football next season.
Here, Sports Mole dissects the 90 minutes that unfolded in the North West.
Match statistics:
Wigan:
Shots 13
On target 6
Possession 45%
Corners 10
Fouls 13
Norwich:
Shots 9
On target 5
Possession 55%
Corners 3
Fouls 9
Was the result fair?
Looking back, yes. While Wigan lacked in certain areas on the field due to their slow build-up play, they were able to take the opportunity when it was presented to them, while Norwich struggled to create many direct chances on goal throughout the 90 minutes.
Wigan's performance
As mentioned above, the Latics were unable to come out firing on all cylinders, which one might expect given that they need to survive the drop once again. The midfield were able to throw some impressive plays together, but they left themselves vulnerable on occasion by giving the ball away numerous times. Despite their slow approach, they always looked the more likely side to score.
Norwich's performance
The travelling side looked effective on the break, but their failure to threaten in the final third damaged their chances of causing an upset at the DW Stadium. The Canaries had some positive spells of possession, but similar to today's opponents, they gave the ball away cheaply on occasion.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Shaun Maloney: This was a toss-up between the midfielder and his teammate Jean Beausejour, who proved threatening in the wide areas. Maloney just edged it due to his dominance on the field as he played a part in almost every Wigan attack. He also fought to the end of the contest, and didn't fall victim of sloppy play.
Biggest gaffe
Callum McManaman, who was at the centre of negative headlines over the past week, could have put his side in front during the first half after finding space in the penalty area to pick up a pass from Beausejour. He failed to adjust his feet and the ball bobbled behind him.
Referee performance
Howard Webb, who has issued the most yellow cards than any other referee so far this season, had a relatively quiet game in terms of controversy. There was only one penalty shout during the contest, but replays indicated that Maloney was fairly brought down by Michael Turner.
What next?
Wigan: The Latics will hope to snatch maximum points yet again when they take on fellow struggling side Queens Park Rangers on April 7.
Norwich: The Canaries welcome Swansea City to Carrow Road on April 6.
Danielle Joynson
