Shortly after Aston Villa went ahead 1-0, Wigan Athletic put their foot on the gas and took control of possession, much like they did in the first half. They forced Brad Friedel to come off of his line once to prevent an open chance and a beautiful move ended with a shot just wide, but that momentum came to a halt thanks to silly challenge by Hendry Thomas.
Wigan Vs. Aston Villa: Silly Challenge Hands Villa Penalty, 2-0 Lead
Having just grabbed a bit of possession back, Stewart Downing chipped the ball over the top to Ashley Young, who collected it and was at the edge of the penalty box left of goal and taking the ball to the end line. Then, with the danger somewhat neutralized, Thomas went in on a poor challenge that came nowhere near the ball and took down Young. The referee had no choice but to award a penalty, which Young stepped to and smashed right of the keep and into the netting for a 2-0 Villa lead.
With a tick under 30 minutes to play, there is time for Wigan, who have had their chances, but they have some work to do and sitting in 18th place, cannot be full of confidence. Meanwhile, Villa looks to be in line for three points and a climb from 16th to 13th in the table.
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