Soccer
Jim McNulty thrilled with ‘devastating’ Stockport attack
Stockport manager Jimmy McNulty could not hide his delight at the convincing nature of the 4-0 Sky Bet League One victory at Wigan.
Three goals in the opening 21 minutes from Kyle Wootton, Harry Wood and Jack Diamond had the points secured by the midway point in the first half.
Wigan rallied in the second half, when Archie Harris hit a post and Chris Sze saw a blistering drive tipped over.
But County’s fourth goal in the 90th minute by Ryan Glover did not flatter the visitors in any way.
“I’m very delighted with both the performance and the result, against what I think is a very good team and a very clever team that was highly prepared for the game, as we were,” said McNulty.
“Fortunately the level of performance from my team was good enough to earn us what I think was a deserved victory.
“I thought we were fairly devastating in that first part of the game and we probably could have scored even more goals, because of the way we were turning over the ball.
“We attacked relentlessly and we took every single opportunity there was to attack.
“We want to be that team that can attack in all ways, but we’re also very pleased with the clean sheet at the other end as well.
“If I’m being honest and truthful, Wigan could have nicked a consolation goal at the end, but I’m very pleased with the way we held out for the clean sheet.”
For Wigan boss Gary Caldwell, it was a reality check after the midweek victory over MK Dons – their first league points of the campaign – which saw them come into the game in great spirits.
“It’s never nice to lose, it’s never nice to lose at home, it’s never nice to lose to that margin,” he said.
“But I think we’ve said a few times already this season, that this is a young group that is developing.
“And we are going to have moments like this, where the most important thing is that we learn from it – myself first, then the staff and the players.
“If everyone learns from moments like this, then that’s the only way this team, this club, is going to get better.
“While it’s hard just now, I’ve had days like this as a manager, as a coach and as a player in my career.
“The biggest thing – and I’ve told the players this – is to walk out of the stadium with your heads held high.
“You have to accept what this is, in terms of the reality of League One and the level a team like Stockport is at.
“And you have to do something about it… you have to come into work desperate for the opportunity to do something about it, and get better.”
