Are Wigan a better side now?

Today AFCB take on a Wigan Athletic side that have not been beaten in the league since they played Millwall away on 7 December. Back then they had a different manager and Uwe Rosler has now come in and changed the direction of Wigan's play. Known for his attacking football at Brentford, Rosler is looking to play a bit more football than Owen Coyle did and he has been building confidence in his two main strikers - Nick Powell and Grant Holt.

Lewis Grabban got the winner last time we played
Wigan and perhaps he can do the same today. 

The 0:1 away win that Wigan had against an inform Derby County in their last game is worthy of note. Not many teams have got one over the Rams this season and to halt their progress was a major boost for Wigan who must feel that they are capable of getting into the play-off places. But even for clubs like Wigan the January transfer window has its dangers and the interest in Holt and McCann may grow from Premiership clubs.

Bournemouth's players are well aware of what conditions will be like playing at the DW stadium having played their in the FA Cup last season. That day Eunan O'Kane provided the inspiration to almost earn the Cherries a victory, although it was very much Wigan's second strength side. The second him game of AFCB's season was even better though when Lewis Grabban stole in to round Scott Carson from a sad back pass to give the Cherries a precious three points. I doubt Wigan will be so charitable this time.

Wigan have found it hard to score often at home with two nil-nil draw in their last two games but they no longer have the extra games of the Europa League to worry about and their side will be a lot more up for this game in front of their home fans.

Last weekend they had an entertaining 3:3 draw at home with MK Dons in the FA Cup. It must have been a shock to see so many goals at the DW stadium, but I don't think Wigan's next game against AFCB will be as open or free scoring. This is a big game for AFCB. They are five places behind Wigan in the table but only three points in arrears, so a win could be very significant in terms of league position.

AFCB's recent away form has been impressive and having not had to play an FA Cup tie last weekend, the players should be hungry to get back into action. I expect a tight game but would not be surprised if AFCB extend their unbeaten run.You guessed it, I'll go for a 1:1 draw.

Wigan Home Form:
LLWDD

AFCB Away Form:
DLWWD

If you missed Rival lines yesterday have a click on this link where you can read the opinions of Jesus was a Wiganer on the Wigan v Cherries match.

We are having some technical issues with the Free Bet Negotiator advert at the moment and so until this is rectified you can still visit the site via this link.(You need to be 18+).