Luton’s season slipped from one disaster to another on Wednesday night as they lost 1-0 at relegation threatened Wigan Athletic.
The hosts condemned Town to a sixth straight away defeat thanks to ex-Hatter Joe Taylor’s 73rd minute goal and to find out how the visitors rated, see below.
5. Teden Mengi: 5 (STAR MAN)
Did his own job well enough as with things not working at all going forward for the Hatters, it was imperative that the defence remained strong, and it looked like that would be the case during the first period as neither side looked like they would score. That didn't look quite the same in the second period, as Wigan came out well to dominate proceedings, ensuring Luton were on the back foot, although still kept actual clear-cut chances to a minimum. Left isolated when the Latics did break through as they were able to go three on one with him, Taylor eventually finding the net. Taken off for the seven minutes and stoppage time as the visitors hunted an equaliser that never came. Photo: David Horn
6. Jordan Clark: 3
In what was a must-win game, Luton’s midfield needed to be so much better than they were on the night, but it simply didn't happen during what was a woeful first half from both teams that demonstrated an alarming lack of quality. After the break, Wigan did grasp the game by the scuff of its neck, as the Hatters midfielders were unable to get a hold of the ball and relieve the pressure on them that was beginning to ramp up. Showed one of the only moments of individual skill late on when he turned his man and unleashed a fine shot, which flew narrowly wide, but when he delivered a late corner that flew straight on to roof of the net, that kind of summed up the visitors' efforts. Photo: David Horn
7. Kasey Palmer: 3.5
Started well with one terrific first-time pass out wide to Jones, but from that moment on, it was a wholly frustrating evening, with some running battles against the referee, pleading his case with the fourth official when giving away a free kick despite getting nowhere near his opponent. Went closest for Luton before the break, getting a free kick up and down well which was repelled by Tickle. Had precious little threat in the second period as the Hatters simply lost control of the contest, with Wigan's passing and ball retention completely letting them down. Made the odd foray late on but Wigan defended as if their lives depended on it in the closing stages. Photo: Andy Fitzsimons
8. Jake Richards: 4
Began on the right hand side so he could cut in on his left foot, one early moment caused some real panic to the Wigan defence, his cross deflecting away before Al-Hamadi could pounce and turn it over the line from close range. Battled well again to find the forward for another opportunity that was blocked, as he had the majority of Luton's sparse number of touches inside the Latics area during the first period. Neat and tidy on the ball as always, any hopes he might have a growing influence on the match after the break were quickly swept aside as Wigan grasped the initiative which meant he struggled to get involved, making way for Morris on the hour mark. Photo: David Horn