Latics On The Banks Of The Thames

Niall Owens' Fulham v Latics preview:

The Latics head to the capital for the second time this week in search of their third consecutive victory, in their latest great escape act.

Following their memorable victory at the Emirates on Monday evening, Roberto Martinez's men find themselves five points clear of the drop, with just four games left to play.

If the excellent run of form is to continue, they will need to end a terrible run of results against Fulham. Wigan have failed to win in any of the last ten encounters against the Londoners, and have only beaten then twice in their top flight history.

Martinez will be confident his side can once again overcome the odds, and he welcomes back striker Hugo Rodallega to his match squad, for the first time in six weeks. Shaun Maloney who missed the Monday night's clash at the Emirates, faces a late fitness test, and Spaniard Albert Crusat is definitely sidelined.

As for the hosts, their forward line options have been bolstered with the return of former England international Andy Johnson and Russian hotshot Pavel Pogrebnyak.

Heading into their penultimate away trip of the season the Latics can be confident of avoiding the drop, and continuing their impressive run.

Having kept faith in his side and his playing style, Martinez must be delighted with his side. Despite the run fans can be rest assured that his side remain focussed for the remainder of the run in.

The mentality he has instilled in his side has been at the forefront of their incredible recent run of results. The emergence of the likes of Victor Moses and Shaun Maloney has added a much needed spark to the forward line.

His decision to play with three at the back has proved to a masterstroke, with Gary Caldwell leading from the back.

Unlike seasons before the Latics are in the position now of having their destiny in their own hands, two wins from their final four games will see them hit the magic forty point mark. Everyone at the club will been keen to ensure that survival can be secured as soon as possible, starting with three points on Saturday.

Niall Owens

To read more from Niall visit his blog laticsinanutshell.blogspot.co.uk

















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