Wigan Athletic chief reacts to Crewe Alexandra victory - 'a great trait to have'

Gary Caldwell could not hide his delight at the way Wigan Athletic ended the Jersey Mike's Trophy group stage with a 100 per cent record thanks to a 2-1 win at Crewe Alexandra.

The League Two outfit had taken the lead at the beginning of the second half through Tom Graves' close-range strike.

But Jeremiah Chilokoa-Mullen headed home the equaliser on the hour mark after being picked out by Fraser Murray's precise corner.

And a youthful Latics side completed a come-from-behind victory with seven minutes to go when youngster Harrison Rimmer netted with his right foot.

"I'm really pleased," said Caldwell. "I think you could see with the team that we picked that we wanted to win the game.

"We wanted to top the group and we wanted a home tie in the next round, but we knew it wasn't going to be an easy game.

"Crewe played a slightly younger team than we expected, but it was still difficult...and that's what I told the players.

"It's really hard to win football matches, you have to really be at it.

"And going behind again, and still coming back to win, is a great trait to have.

"We've spoken a lot about not conceding the first goal, and giving ourselves a foundation to play from.

"But when you prove you can come back from adversity, that gives you great confidence as well.

"Everyone gave everything on the night, and I think we deserved to win the game.

"I thought we controlled the early part of the game really well, and we created some chances.

"We then became a bit sloppy in possession and lost the game in bad areas, which gave them confidence and momentum.

"That continued into the second half, which was disappointing, but we reacted really well.

"When we brought the finishers on, they all added something to the game, and we could have scored more goals because we missed some good chances."

Caldwell also reiterated his belief that the competition remains one of Latics' priorities this season, as shown by another strong team selection.

"I think it's a good competition - any competition that finishes at Wembley, with a trophy up for grabs, is worth winning," he added.

"The groups stage, being so early in the season, allows us to get some youngsters out there.

"But I think you've seen with every team selection that we've sent out a side to win the game.

"I think we've managed the competition well, and the first two wins helped us with the league form, and hopefully this one will do the same."