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Trophy Trail Continues: Wigan Edge Past Forest U21s in Penalty Drama
Wigan Athletic manager Shaun Maloney delivered a characteristically succinct “job done” verdict after his side navigated a tense penalty shootout against Nottingham Forest Under-21s to advance in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy. The victory, secured through goalkeeper Tom Watson’s heroic triple save in the shootout, keeps Wigan’s Wembley dreams alive.
The match itself, overseen by former Wigan manager Warren Joyce in the Forest dugout, was largely uneventful until its dramatic conclusion. Despite dominating possession, Wigan struggled to create meaningful chances in a game that Maloney admitted “felt like an Under-21 game” in the second half.
The deadlock remained unbroken through 90 minutes, despite early opportunities at both ends. Forest’s Adam Berry, sporting number 99, forced Watson into an early save, while Manchester United loanee Joe Hugill squandered Wigan’s best chance when clean through on goal.
The shootout provided the evening’s only real excitement, with Watson emerging as the hero. His three consecutive saves, combined with perfect penalties from Silko Thomas, Matt Smith, and Will Aimson, sealed Wigan’s progression to the December knockout rounds.
The match did offer some positives for Maloney’s squad development, featuring Paul Dummett’s full debut and valuable minutes for youngsters K’Marni Miller and Maleace Asamoah, the latter completing his first full 90 minutes. Chris Sze also made a welcome return after a two-month absence, though his late free-kick attempt sailed over.
Maloney acknowledged his team’s improved second-half performance, particularly praising the impact of his young substitutes and noting how they adapted to Forest’s man-marking defensive strategy, which had initially stifled Wigan’s attacking movements.
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