A lot on the line for The Latics

A Wigan Athletic side who are in administration, have raised over £150,000 by fans crowdfunding and are set to receive a 12 point deduction that would see them fall from 15^th to 24^th host 22^nd placed Hull City, one of a few clubs that could survive relegation at the Latics’ expense. Wigan are nine points above the relegation zone with three fixtures left however the points chalked off would have them four points adrift with three games remaining. Making this a must win game, to give themselves the best chance of staying in the division. The hosts are strong favourites with Grant McCann’s Tigers having only won once in their last 18 encounters.

Background

The Latics backline has been nothing short of sensational since the resumption of play, it was the key factor in them hauling themselves out of a relegation battle originally and they will need it once again to save their bacon. They have kept nine clean sheets from their last 10 outings including five in a row at home. A both teams to score no punt would have been a win in all of their last 10. However, should Hull manage to get on the score they reverse the trend with the Latics having only won once in their last 12 home games where they have conceded.

Key men

The Tigers are stronger going forward than they are defensively, though having said they do not standout in either facet. They sit 10^th in the table on goals scored although that would be a lot to do with the form of Jarrod Bowen and Kamil Grosicki who departed in January. There biggest attacking threat is Mallik Wilks, who signed for the club in controversial fashion in the last month. Rock bottom side Barnsley initially refused to extend to former Leeds United man’s loan at Hull for the remainder of the season, but after some pushing and frustration from Wilks, he forced a move through on a permanent basis. Giving McCann’s side some hope, they are one place and one point behind Charlton Athletic and safety. The 21-year-old scored two in two games promptly after signing and will need to be on top form to breakthrough Paul Cook’s men’s sturdy rearguard action.

Wigan now have the 10^th strongest defence and have moved up to 11^th in the expected goals table as a result of their recent form, they have only lost one of their last 12 matches. 23-year-old Frenchman Cedric Kipre has been an important cog in that effort, he has played made 35 appearances showcasing his no nonsense defending clearing the ball 3.8 times per game on average. Fourth choice centre back Danny Fox was sent off last time out and so Kipre will need to step up in the backline, with Chey Dunkley and Leon Balogun still on the treatment table.

This might not be pretty but could be a pivotal match in both of these club’s seasons. A draw with results going against them and the fat lady will be clearing her throat.

Wigan Athletic – Hull City Betting Tip

Wigan Athletic to Win + Hull City to Score Under 1.5 goals with bet365 at odds of 7/5 or 2.38.

Bet Wigan Athletic to Win + Hull City to Score Under 1.5 goals on Bet365