Opinion: Huddersfield match is huge

Last updated : 21 January 2015 By Kieran Makin

Understandably, a lot of Latics fans are looking at our position in a pessimistic manner. A campaign that began with hopes of Premier League promotion, to another season involving a relegation battle.

There is no hiding from the fact that we have simply not been good enough so far. Being second bottom in the Championship table and five points from safety is certainly justified.

However, despite all the negativity and poor performances that has effected the club, I think the fans, players and manager will fight to the last kick of a ball. Call me crazy, but I even believe we can stay up, but it starts with a massive game at home to Huddersfield this weekend.

During my time as a Wigan Athletic fan, I have experienced several games that have been described as ‘must win’. In my opinion, this Huddersfield game can be put into this category, alongside memorable games such as Sheffield United away, Stoke away and Blackburn away.

If we win this Saturday, it could be a monumental turning point. If we can gain three points and results go our way in the upcoming fixtures, we can leapfrog Millwall into 22nd position and cut the gap to two points.

I feel the Huddersfield match is a must win and we can certainly win it with the spirit the players showed against Blackburn. James McClean is playing out his skin every match, James Perch is a born leader and Emyr Huws return will provide us with that quality in midfield.

Now is the time to come together, fans and players alike, just like we have done many times before. Back each other to the bitter end, starting from this Saturday at home to Huddersfield.

After all, we are the specialists when it comes to relegation battles. Keep the faith.