Report by SJG

FRIENDLY

EAST FIFE vs WIGAN ATHLETIC

2nd August 1978 

A DEFEAT WITH A BIG SILVER LINING

Twenty-four hours later and Latics played the final game of their tour at the Bayview stadium in Methil, the home to East Fife of the Scottish second division.

Latics made a number of changes to try and freshen up the side but the game on the previous night meant that tired limbs were in evidence. Wigan fell behind in the fifth minute when HERD netted for the hosts and the score remained unchanged at the break.

Half time; East Fife 1-0 Wigan Athletic.

The lead was extended shortly after half time when LUMSDEN beat the Wigan defenders to a loose ball to fire home. Wigan pressed hard to try and gain a foothold back in the game but the East Fife defence was superbly marshalled by a promising young centre half called Colin Methven.  The performance certainly impressed the Wigan manager and he was quick to make enquiries about the player.

Full time; East Fife 2-0 Wigan Athletic.

Scorers; Herd (5), Lumsden (49);

Attendance; 800 (est.)

Team; WIGAN—B. Ward; Smart, Hinnigan, Davids, Gillibrand; Gore, Wright, Corrigan, Purdie; Houghton, Crompton; SUBS; Quinn for Houghton, McDermott for Gillibrand, Hart for Hinnigan, Moore for Wright;

Referee; Not Known;