The Latics form impressed again against an experienced Preston North End side in the second round of the League Cup on Tuesday, even though they still struggled to find the net. The 2-0 loss only emphasised the importance to find a natural goalscorer as it could have made the result totally different. Defensively, the side looked good with Ousmane Fane again shining, although Preston were left to show the visitors how to finish which kept the 13 year hoodoo of not reaching the third round in this competition going for yet another season.
The best first half chance fell to Marc Klok who could have done better after Lee Erwin had set him up then Connor Ripley showed his worth with a class save from a Hugill header although he later went on walk-about to gift the home side their second, and decisive goal. Erwin went close and Josh Law should have seen his great cross finished off but it was missed by all. Once again the travelling Latics fans outsung the home fans with 751 hardy fans making the trip.