Joe Hugill at the double as Wigan crush Bristol Rovers

Posted Sunday, September 15, 2024 by PA

Manchester United loanee Joe Hugill’s first-half double put Wigan on course for a crushing 4-0 win over Bristol Rovers at the Memorial Stadium.

The 20-year-old striker put the Latics in command after 20 minutes when he tapped in from close range after the Rovers defence failed to clear their lines following a corner.

Hugill was again in the right place at the right time after 40 minutes when he bundled the ball home after goalkeeper Josh Griffiths had made a fine save as his defence was again found wanting at a corner.

Norwegian striker Thelo Aasgaard strengthened Wigan’s grip on the contest after 50 minutes with yet another close-range finish when Griffiths dropped Silko Thomas’ cross.

On-loan Liverpool left-back Luke Chambers scored his first goal for Shaun Maloney’s side in the 72nd minute when he caught out Griffiths with a low 20-yard free-kick to complete the rout and send scores of Rovers fans heading for the exits.

Things went from bad to worse for Rovers boss Matt Taylor after 84 minutes when he saw defender Taylor Moore sent off following an off-the-ball clash with substitute Maleace Asamoah before the final whistle was greeted with a chorus of boos from the home fans.