A memorable double from club legend Emmerson Boyce ensured
the Latics signed off the season in great style, in front a full house on
Sunday afternoon.
The result sees Roberto Martinez’s men finish off in 15th
place, after an incredible run, saw them pick up seven wins from their final nine games.
Franco Di Santo & Hugo Rodallega |
Already relegated Wolves looked to dampen the party
atmosphere when they took the lead through winger Matt Jarvis, whose terrific effort
left Ali Al Habsi with no chance, after only nine minutes.
The Latics were not behind for long and soon levelled up,
when Argentine striker Franco Di Santo’s deflected left the visiting keeper
flat footed. Moments later Boyce’s fine header put the home side ahead,
from a Jean Beasejour corner.
Boyce sealed the points late into the second half, with a
stunning strike after great link up play with Hugo Rodallega, who is set to
leave the club.
Dave Whelan & Ali Al Habsi |
Steven Fletcher’s late goal took some of the gloss off the day, after
a defensive mix up, again gave Al Habsi no chance.
The game had very much a feel of an end of season affair,
but few inside the DW would complain; only eight weeks ago the club looked
doomed and set for a return to the football league.
The day was very much about the fans and a full house
ensured a great atmosphere and Martinez
made only one change. Adrian Lopez was given a rare outing alongside player of
the season Gary Caldwell, and despite his late error looked assured.
To have finished five points ahead of Aston Villa, a
founding member of the Premier League is an incredible achievement, and shows that
Martinez was right to stick with
the Latics.
The Players Celebrate |
As always, there is sure to be much change over the course
of the summer period, with Rodallega, Chris Kirkland, Steve Gohouri and Mohammed
Diame all confirmed as being released.
There is also plenty of interest around other members of the
squad as well as the staff, with Aston Villa confirming their interest once
again in Martinez this evening.
Regardless of what happens over the next couple of months,
the Latics will be taking part in their eighth consecutive season in the top
flight and the future is looking very, very good.
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