We must be more ruthless

The Latics star writes every week for Chron Sport
ANOTHER week passes, and the ups and downs of our season continue with a win and a defeat.

After three crucial points against Stevenage, we’re in a bit of a lull again after losing to Walsall.

Still, after only a couple of days of training, I was back in the first team with a place among the

subs in last weekend’s game.

I was delighted to be involved again after being away for six weeks, and being part of a group that earned valuable points was even better.

You could feel the pressure of how big a game this was. The atmosphere around the club was intense, so when James Wesolowski ghosted in and headed into the bottom corner early on, there was a sense of relief as we went on to record a first league win since November.

This match gave the supporters a chance to see new loan signing Gary Harkins for the first time, and he didn’t disappoint. A naturally-gifted footballer who can conjure up a bit of magic in the tightest of areas is a joy to watch. Having a team-mate who not only sees the right pass from other players’ movements but can also deliver is a massive boost for the team.

The gaffer gave me my first taste of action since my return with only a couple of minutes remaining and for it to end in a win was the best scenario possible.

On Monday morning, the manager said he wanted me to start against Walsall which I was excited about as I didn’t expect to be given the nod so soon. With the many players at his disposal it was a huge boost for me.

Unfortunately, the result didn’t reflect the lads’ performance; one of many times already this season the Latics have produced great football but ended up on the losing side.

Failing to take our chances in front of goal has been our downfall this season, but these small margins are the difference between winning and losing. You don’t win games by outpassing teams, you win by being relentless and ruthless.

Looking ahead to the Port Vale game tomorrow, another difficult battle against a physical team awaits us.

It is now a matter of winning by any means and if that means winning ugly, then so be it.

Football is a results business and though we all want to win while playing well, I’m sure everyone will agree that as long as we get three points, the performance comes second.