By @LaticsOfficial

Stephen Crainey | Sligo Rovers (N) Reaction

Latics U21 manager reflects after the 1-1 draw with Sligo Rovers 

  • Stephen Crainey | Sligo Rovers (N) Reaction
  • Latics U21 manager reflects after the 1-1 draw with Sligo Rovers 
  • Crainey: "I was intrigued to see how the game went, but in terms of attitude and application, I thought the lads were very good."

Stephen Crainey praised his side’s attitude and application levels after they earned a 1-1 draw against Sligo Rovers on Monday afternoon. 

With a timely break in their Professional Development League games programme, Latics filled the void with a mid-season friendly against the SSE Airtricity Premier Division outfit at St George’s Park. 

The Young Tics represented themselves well against one of the best senior sides in Ireland, with Ethan Mitchell’s header helping them to a 1-1 draw in the frosty conditions. 

Speaking to Latics TV, Crainey was delighted with how his side rose to the challenge and nearly recorded a victory against Rovers through efforts from Harry McHugh, Abdi Sharif and Joe Rodwell-Grant. 

“It was a good performance,” he said.

“I was intrigued to see how the game went, but in terms of attitude and application, I thought the lads were very good. 

“It was really pleasing. In terms of the physicality, it was interesting to see how the lads reacted, and I thought they coped well with it. 

“On the flip side, I thought we used the ball really well, and created some really good opportunities at the top end of the pitch.

“The game finished 1-1, but on another day, I think we would have won if we had taken our chances. 

“There was loads of positives right throughout the game, and I can’t fault the lads’ effort levels.”

The fixture helped Latics maintain their fitness levels ahead of their return to Professional Development League next week. 

Tasked with a trip to South Yorkshire to face Barnsley, Crainey is hoping his side can build on their recent performances and extend their unbeaten run to six games in all competitions. 

“We’re looking forward to it,” he said. 

“Since the Christmas break, I think we’ve come back really well. We’ve had several good performances, so it’s all about carrying over our momentum and trying to improve (our results).”