The Latics fought to a creditable friendly draw with Championship side Derby County. The manager used the game to introduce home debuts to six new faces at Boundary Park. Emanuel Villa opened the scoring for the Rams with an early goal after a slip up from Sean Gregan, but Chris O'Grady (pictured) scored a cracking first goal for the club from close range after 22 minutes to send them in with a 1-1 score at the end of the first half.The second half saw the introduction of new signing Kevin Maher and also witnessed Deane Smalley and Craig Davies both come close with efforts. With ten minutes left a diving header by Lee Hughes from a Chris Taylor cross almost won the match. It was a promising performance from the home side and gave John Sheridan another opportunity to experiment more with his squad.
Next up is Premiership new boys Hull City which should give the Latics another good challenge.