Grigg: Wigan Athletic must crank up the heat!

The Northern Ireland hotshot took his tally for the season to 23 with a treble in the 5-1 rout of his old club at the DW – which lifted Latics back up to second place over Shrewsbury, who were on Checkatrade Trophy final duty.

Latics remain two points behind leaders Blackburn, but still in control of their own destiny thanks to their game in hand.

“It was a great team performance and great result,” acknowledged Grigg, who notched his fourth career hat-trick, and his third for Latics.

“Right from the first minute I thought we were well in control.

“There was a short period after they scored to make it 2-1 when they had their tails up a bit.

“But we came out for the second half and regained control, and it was nice to get the hat-trick.”

Nick Powell also got on the scoresheet for the 15th time this season – as well as hitting the woodwork – with an own goal from Dons defender Ethan Ebanks-Landell completing the scoring.

Grigg was very nearly denied the opportunity of walking away with the matchball ...by his own manager!

Having seen Grigg score his second, and Wigan’s fourth, goal on 74 minutes, Cook primed substitute James Vaughan to come on at the next break in play.

Thankfully Michael Jacobs and Gavin Massey managed to lay his third goal on a plate within two minutes – before Cook could make his change.

“I could see the gaffer wanted to freshen things up a bit,” laughed Grigg.

“I think Vaughany’s tried to stick up for me and said you can’t bring off a striker who’s on for a hat-trick!

“The gaffer’s having none of it, though, I’ve had a quick look over and I knew I only had maybe one more chance at it.

“Thankfully Gavin and Crackers put me through, and it was nice to see it go in before going off.”