Shaun Maloney | Lincoln City (A) Reaction

Shaun Maloney reflects on the goalless draw at Lincoln City 

• Shaun Maloney | Lincoln City (A) Reaction 
• Latics Manager reflects on the goalless draw at the LNER Stadium 
• Maloney: "The performance in large parts was good."

Shaun Maloney was overall pleased after his Wigan Athletic backed up their 4-0 victory at Bristol Rovers with a draw at the home of promotion-chasing Lincoln City. 

Latics were impressive during large periods at the LNER Stadium, creating a plethora of opportunities, though it was the defences who ultimately came out on top. 

Speaking post-game to Latics TV, Maloney praised his side for their performance during large spells, though he wanted more intensity and speed in the final third.

“We kept trying to create chances and win the game,” he told Latics TV. 

“In the last 10 minutes, we had to deal with a lot of long balls and set plays. It was tough - defensively, they (Lincoln City) are really good, and we found it hard to break through them.

“They’ve got a brilliant record since the Manager (Michael Skubala) came in, as he’s made them hard to beat. 

“They are one of - if not the best - teams in the league at set plays, and very good at high pressing, and hurting you when they win it.

“The performance in large parts was good - but I’d like it a little bit quicker at times, but we also have to credit the opponent for making it very hard.

“We had to rely on crosses, and we had a big chance with Thelo (Aasgaard), and Dion (Rankine) in the first half.

“The full-backs and wingers deserve big credit today, and Will Aimson produced a moment which gives us a point.

“We needed more speed and intensity. In the end, we kept trying to win, but we couldn’t manage today.”

Prior to this afternoon’s Sky Bet League One clash, Maloney bolstered his backroom staff with the arrival of new First Team Coach Glenn Whelan. 

The Latics Gaffer believes the former Republic of Ireland international will be a brilliant addition, and provide a real intensity with his coaching methods. 

“He’s got a lot of experience from his playing days. I loved him as a player - his mentality was really difficult as an opponent to match.

“Now he’s on his coaching journey, and he’s been with the Republic of Ireland for a period of time and Bristol Rovers.

“I spoke in the media about taking time but I went to meet Glenn and for the group, we need stability and the right person, and I believe that’s him. 

“He’s got an intensity about him, and I’m really glad that he’s here.”