Exclusive: ‘A potential dark horse’ – Bristol Rovers vs Wigan Athletic prediction

Wigan Athletic will travel to the Memorial Ground this weekend to take on Bristol Rovers in their next League One match.

In their previous game before the international break, Wigan Athletic lost 2-1 to Birmingham City away, but they put in a solid performance against a team vying for promotion. Shaun Maloney’s squad has earned three points from their first four matches of the season.

The Latics are currently in 20th place in the table and will be keen to find form and climb up the standings in the coming weeks.

During the summer transfer window, they brought in players like Joe Hugill, Tyrese Francois, Calvin Ramsay, and Toby Sibbick to strengthen their squad, while parting ways with Charlie Hughes, Ben Amos, and Jordan Jones.

Bristol Rovers, on the other hand, lost 2-1 to Barnsley last Saturday and will be eager to rebound from that setback. They have accumulated seven points so far and are positioned 9th, just two points behind the play-off spots.

Matt Taylor, who previously managed Exeter City and Rotherham United, is still in charge of the Gas.

Our writers share their predictions for the match:

Harry Mail

“They have a very young squad, with their recruitment focused primarily on developing talent. Consequently, they may lack the experience needed for immediate success.”

“The Latics do have some promising talents that could pose a challenge for Bristol Rovers.

“Matt Taylor’s team has won their first two home games against Northampton Town and Cambridge United without conceding, making the Memorial Ground a stronghold. I can see them extending their winning streak at home on Saturday.”

James Ray

“Bristol Rovers are riding high, and with Wigan Athletic struggling at the start of the season, it’s hard to see things turning around in this match.

“I have a lot of respect for Matt Taylor as a manager, and with some solid players in the squad, the Gas could be a team to watch this season. If they can turn the Memorial Stadium into a fortress, they might emerge as a dark horse in the play-off race.

“A win over a team like Wigan would reinforce this, as despite Wigan’s poor form, they have a clever manager and some talented players.

“Based on momentum alone, I’ll back Rovers to come out on top.”

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