Goalkeeper Joe Walsh leads Wigan Athletic in the goals prevented statistic for the current 2026/27 League One season. Data reported by Google this week shows Walsh's figure stands at -1.9, with five goals conceded so far.
This places the Latics 24th in the table with zero points from two defeats, having scored two and conceded five for a -3 goal difference. They are six points behind early leaders Bradford City. The next test is an away trip to face AFC Wimbledon, who are 23rd, on 30 August 2026.
What does the goals prevented statistic mean?
Goals prevented is an advanced metric that evaluates a goalkeeper's performance against the quality of shots faced. A negative number indicates the keeper has conceded more goals than the expected goals (xG) data suggests an average goalkeeper would have allowed. Walsh's -1.9 figure for the league campaign is the key defensive metric highlighted in the statistical report. The data covers numerous categories across multiple seasons for League One, the FA Cup, the EFL Cup, and the EFL Trophy.
How does this season's start compare historically?
The statistical report provides a deep historical context for the club's current campaign. It tracks performance across ten separate League One and Championship seasons dating back to 2016/17. For cup competitions, it includes data from the 2026/27 editions back through the 2025/26, 2024/25, and earlier seasons. This allows for a direct comparison of current defensive metrics like goals conceded per 90, save percentage, and clean sheets against past campaigns. You can explore this longitudinal data on our dedicated stats page.
What other key stats are tracked?
Beyond goalkeeping, the report lists over thirty statistical categories for outfield players. These include traditional measures like top scorer, assists, and minutes played. It also incorporates modern analytics such as expected goals (xG), expected assists (xA), and defensive contributions per 90. For the 2026/27 season, figures for successful dribbles per 90, big chances created, and tackles per 90 will build a complete picture of the squad's performance. Monitoring the team's standings position alongside these individual metrics will be key.
Where does the team go from here?
The immediate focus is arresting the poor start. With a crucial match against a fellow struggler in AFC Wimbledon next, improving defensive solidity is paramount. The detailed statistical breakdown, including Walsh's goals prevented metric, provides a clear benchmark for improvement. Manager and players will be analysing this data to tighten up at the back. Turning around the -3 goal difference and converting chances, as shown in the shots on target per 90 data, will be essential to climb from the bottom of the table. Fans can follow the team's progress in the upcoming fixtures on our fixtures schedule.
