Heartbreaking

Latics director rues missed chance
THE FACT that Carlisle United have a shot at making the play-offs this season is a real wrench for Athletic.

While the resources of the two clubs are broadly similar, Athletic languish in 18th place in npower League One.

Hopes of a top-six push evaporated following exits to Liverpool and Chesterfield in the FA Cup and Johnstone’s Paint Trophy respectively.

In the view of club director Mike Newton — who is jetting over from his New York base ahead of the final game — the main focus should always have been on the league.

“Given our financial resources, we always look first for survival in League One,” Newton said. “Relegation would be a catastrophe.

“With the opportunities we have had this season, though, it is disappointing we haven’t done better.

“Look at Carlisle, who are pushing for the top six. I don’t think, if you look at our squad, that we are so far behind them.

“It is heartbreaking to see the difference in our respective league positions. It is a missed opportunity.

Improvement will be sought next season under manager Paul Dickov, despite club resources being stretched even more tightly.




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