Talking points . . .

DUNN'S FIRST GAME IN CHARGE: While not an unqualified success, it's little wonder the new interim boss was pleased to have come away from the Keepmoat Stadium with a point.

Looking smart on the touchline and giving out plenty of smiles and encouragement, early signs are generally promising.

It will be interesting to see what kind of players he will be in a position to attract to the club this week.

BURN IN THE WARS: The Middlesbrough loanee mustn't have known whether to laugh or cry on Saturday night. The combative centre-back notched his first Latics goal, but by that time had already sustained a nasty-looking bang to the head.

With elbows and arms flying, he went on to pick up another knock in the second half and ended up going off to be stitched up.

Burn will have had a real headache yesterday morning, but his commitment to the cause was unquestionable.

ATHLETIC'S LOYAL AWAY FOLLOWING: Despite a less-than sparkling performance, the 625 Latics fans at the Keepmoat made an almighty racket once again.

Their support, particularly on away trips, is unstinting and must serve to inspire the players. Let's hope a raucous atmosphere can be generated back at base on Saturday.