Leeds United 2 Wigan Athletic1: How social media reacted

Leeds United came back from behind to inflict Wigan Athletic’s first home defeat of the season in their final match under the Whelan family’s ownership.

The change of ownership at the DW Stadium signals the end of the Whelan’s 23-year reign at the club. In those 23-years, fans have been able to witness five promotions, eight-consecutive seasons in the Premier League, a European tour, and a shock FA Cup victory in 2013.

Latics got off to a dream start at the DW Stadium when Reece James’ stunning free-kick gave the hosts a sixth minute lead.

But Wigan’s lead turned out to be very short-lived after Pablo Hernandez got Leeds back level just three minutes later.

And Leeds struck again after the interval through Kemar Roofe, who capitalised on Christian Walton and Cedric Kipre’s defensive mishap to put the visitors 2-1 up.

Although Wiganers hailed Leeds on social media for their impressive display, Latics fans were very unhappy with how their side performed.

@WAFC_Marc: “As poor as we were, can only say hats off to Leeds, best side here this season and looked a class above, whoever finishes above them will be champions imo.”

@JoeWinstanley: “No doubting Leeds are a good side but we were poor there. Seemed to be no passion or desire. Get a few injuries and our team looks a lot weaker. Need to bounce back!”

@mjtaylor123: “Painful viewing that, took me back to the Joyce days. No shape, no willingness to attack, very bizarre #wafc.”

@piekenyon123: “Dress that up all you want. Leeds were quality but that display today was absolutely terrible. Epitomised by Windass breaking clear and every Leeds player got back and surrounded him, whilst every single other Latics player was still in their own half. Dreadful! #wafc.”

@JamieDerby99: “#lufc didn’t even beat us today.. we lost ourselves the game. Very disappointing to lose to that goal #wafc.”

@lewisadamtanner: “Disappointing but can’t have any complaints with that. Leeds are a cracking side #wafc.”

@tomprescott94: “What has happened these past couple of weeks? Absolutely woeful. #wafc.”

Dan Murphy: “Tried to play a defensive game.. in the main it worked as Leeds didn’t have many clear cut chances and only separated by a defensive blunder. We will bounce back.”

@MechaTengu_” Probably the worst attacking display this season, no cohesion whatsoever and the worse part is we only are losing due to a calamity at the back #wafc.”

@CraigHilton71: Shame we couldn’t get the result to mark the occasion today and it’s a shame the impressive home record has gone now too. Onwards and upwards I guess. Let’s see what this new era will bring. Up the Tics #wafc.”

Wigan’s goal-scorer, Reece James: “Disappointing not to pick up any points this afternoon against Leeds, Happy to score my first professional goal. @laticsofficial”

Latics’ players past and present took to twitter to bid farewell to the Whelan family, and thank them for everything that they’ve done during in their 23-years in charge.

Chey Dunkley: “Thanks again chairmen... you and your family have accomplish great stuff for our club... I wish you well in the future @DavidSharpe91.”

Callum McManaman: “All the best to you and the family @DavidSharpe91 unbelievable achievement good luck.”

2013 FA Cup winner, Jordi Gomez: “No words to describe what Mr Whelan has done for @LaticsOfficial. An incredible journey. Also special mention to @DavidSharpe91 for his great job as chairman in the last few years. THANKS!”

Roman Golobart: “I was 4 years in Wigan. I experienced the beauty of the Premier League and the magic of the FA CUP. I became 18 there and learn the lenguaje I use everyday. The Whelan family gave us all an amazing opportunity in life. I’m thankful to them. You made @LaticsOfficial even greater!”

Chris Kirkland: “Thanks Mr Dave Whelan, had a fantastic 6 years at the club with you at the helm playing in front of great fans and some fantastic lads and staff that you brought to the club from your own pockets,@LaticsOfficial @DavidSharpe91 best wishes Kirky.”

Former club captain, Mario Melchiot: “Today we tried till the end but no luck at home. Forever grateful for what #davewhelan had done for me. Proud of @DavidSharpe91 Head up and let’s go again!!!!”

Jason Pearce: “@DavidSharpe91 wish you All the best chairman for the future. Thank you for your help and support whilst I was there. Had some great memories. The job your family have done for the club is remarkable and left in a great position. Take care.”

Current skipper, Sam Morsy: “Thank you for everything chairman you and your family have done remarkable things for the club and left a lasting legacy I wish you all the best in the future. @DavidSharpe91.”

David Sharpe tweeted his thoughts on an emotional day for him and his family.

@DavidSharpe91: “After 23 years of it being ours, we’ve just left the stadium for the final time as owners of Wigan Athletic and after plenty of drinks & emotions. Thank you for today, all of your kind words and well wishes mean the world to us. Don’t be sad it’s over, be happy it happened.”