‘A huge win’ - Wigan Athletic chief’s verdict after beating Barnsley

‘A huge win’ - Gary Caldwell’s verdict after Wigan Athletic secured a vital 2-1 victory over fellow strugglers Barnsley - who he felt were the better side at the Brick.

Fraser Murray put Wigan ahead nine minutes before the break with a cool finish into the far corner.

But Wigan were unable to build on the lead, and Barnsley found an equaliser 12 minutes after the restart.

Reyes Cleary created the danger, and Cameron McGeehan was on hand to beat Joe Whitworth.

With both sides desperate for the points to climb away from the foot of the league, it was Wigan who found a second goal with 15 minutes to go.

Morgan Fox crossed from the left, and Jensen Weir headed home into the roof of the Barnsley net.

"It was a very tough game," said Caldwell. "We knew before that Barnsley would prove to be very difficult opponents, and that proved to be the case.

"We were very good for five minutes in that first half, we managed to score in that time, but the rest of the half I thought both teams cancelled each other out.

"I didn't think either side played well in the first half, and I thought they were the better team in the second half.

"But if we want to become the team we want to be, you have to find ways to win football matches.,

"And I thought our spirit, our effort, our togetherness, our desire to win the game was sensational.

"Three or four weeks ago, there's no doubt we lose that game, and I think that shows the progression the team is making.

"We found a way to win, we've scored two goals, our home form continues to be very good.

"So lots to take from it. It's another win, but I know we can get better, and we will continue to improve.

"But that is a huge victory in terms of personality."