Paper Talk: That's better

Last updated : 24 March 2004 By Paul Farrington
A brace from Jason Roberts saw them secure a 2-1 win over Division One form side Coventry City.

The result lifted them back up into fourth place, nine points off the automatic promotion pace, but two clear of Millwall who sit just outside the play-off slots.
It was Latics' first win since the end of February, bringing to an end a run of two defeats and a draw.

And while the game was never a classic due to the gale-force winds battering the JJB Stadium, Jewell was a happy manager.

He said: "It was a massive three points for us and I'm delighted we held on to win.

"I'm not saying the game was a six pointer, but I got the impression that some people had started to think Wigan's challenge was faltering.

"It was nice to bounce back after those three games without a win, especially with Coventry arguably being the form side of this division.

"It's a pity that the conditions spoilt the game, and it was almost impossible to play controlled football.

"So both sets of players deserve a lot of credit for giving their all in the circumstances."

Record signing Roberts' goals were his first at home for the club and marked his return from a three-game suspension.

Jewell admitted the striker had been sorely missed during his ban, and now hopes he can bag more goals to keep the play-off push going.

He said: "Jason showed power and pace, and when we got him on to the ball, he was very dangerous.

"We didn't win a game when he was out of team suspended so it was nice to have him back involved.

"They were his first goals at home for us, and as a striker, there's nothing like scoring in front of your own fans.

"Hopefully he can go on and score many more between now and the end of the season.

"I think Jason gives an extra dimension to our play because of his pace and ability to get behind teams. We need a goal threat and he can cause a lot of teams problems with what he has to offer.

"After he scored his goals, we had two or three more chances to kill the game off.

"But Coventry kept going as we knew they would because they're a good side.

"They pulled a goal back and in the end we were hanging on a bit. It's a win, though, and I don't mind if we have another nine like that – not that it would be any good for my ticker."

Jewell reserved special praise for Matt Jackson who started his first game since December 2 in place of suspended Jason de Vos.

And with de Vos available for Saturday's visit to Watford, it gives the boss a pleasant selection headache.

He said: "I thought Matt was outstanding in the defence, in fact he has been outstanding with his attitude while he's been out of the team.

"The way he has conducted himself has been great, he's a top professional, and I can't speak highly enough of him.

"Matt played a very important part out there and now I have a difficult decision to make for the next game.

"Everyone did well against Coventry, but I thought Matt was different class."

Source: Wigan Evening Post.