It wasn’t just the weather that was disappointing in the North West today, as Oldham put in a poor performance against Crewe Alexandra.
The first disappointment for Latics came with the news that new signing David Wheater was injured, leaving an inexperienced defensive duo of Sonhy Sefil and Jamie Stott. That being said, though, the Latics actually started the game very well. In the first minute, Branger won a corner for the home side that nearly resulted in a goal. Two minutes later, Oldham took the lead as Mills broke down the right side and played the ball to the overlapping Hamer who whipped the ball into Missilou, whose looping header found its way into the goal.
Indeed, Oldham continued to create chances and looked dangerous down the wings. However, it was short-lived as the visitors pegged them back after 21 minutes. A ball was chipped into Porter on the edge of the penalty who skillfully looped an exquisite header over Woods. As always, Porter got a warm response from the Latics faithful.
This goal turned the tide for Crewe, who began to be more offensive as they exploited the home side’s defensive weaknesses. As a result, Gary Woods was forced into making a series of excellent saves. In the 41st minute, Missilou fragged down Powell in the penalty area. Once again, the former Oldham striker Chris Porter stepped up and slotted it straight down the middle. Boos rang out around Boundary Park as Crewe walked in leaders.
What little optimism Latics fans had in the first half soon disappeared. As the second half began, it became clear that Crewe were dominant in this game, and they in themselves didn’t look overly impressive.
Woods was once again essential for the home side. Crewe were exploiting Latics’ defensive errors and Gary Woods was forced to protect his goal.
On the attacking front, Branger was causing some trouble down the left-wing but it was really quite limited. Desire Segbe Azankpo also looked sharp and his runs were causing the Crewe defence some difficulties.
Crewe should have doubled the lead in the 74th minute when the ball fell to Powel in the Latics penalty area, he blasted over though.
Oldham went close twice in the dying moments. Azankpo was released by Chris Eagles in the 91st minute but his shot was dragged wide. Two minutes later, Missilou put wide from a corner.
It was a worrying performance from Oldham, who have now lost their first two games. Meanwhile, Crewe showed some potential, but are still missing a clinical touch up-front.
Words by Chris Stringer
