Wigan Athletic beaten in first pre-season test

Wigan Athletic suffered a 1-0 defeat to Port Vale in their opening pre-season friendly on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The result leaves Lee Ashcroft’s side searching for their first win of the summer as they build toward the new League One campaign.

The visitors started brightly but struggled to break down a well-organized Port Vale side. Wigan’s attack lacked cutting edge, while Vale’s defence held firm throughout. The only goal arrived in the 35th minute, when a set-piece routine caught Wigan out and led to a decisive finish.

What happened at Vale Park?

Port Vale dominated the first half, with Wigan’s defence under pressure from the outset. Wigan’s best chance fell to a header from Callum Lang in the 22nd minute, but his effort was well saved by Vale keeper Aidan Stone. The visitors grew into the game but lacked the final ball to fashion clear chances.

Ashcroft made several changes at half-time, bringing on James McPake and Josh Magennis in search of an equalizer. Wigan pushed forward but Vale’s counter-attacks proved dangerous, with their defence marshalled by captain Tom Conlon.

Why it matters for Wigan Athletic

A poor start to pre-season raises questions over Wigan’s readiness for the new League One campaign. With the transfer window still open, Ashcroft will hope to add competition to key areas before the season kicks off. The defeat also highlights the challenge of regaining form after a campaign that ended with Wigan 16th in League One, 56 points, 14 wins, 14 draws and 18 losses from 46 games, with recent form LLDWW.

Wigan’s attack managed just four goals in their final five games last season, and the lack of firepower in pre-season won’t ease concerns. The club’s goal difference of -9 (49 scored, 58 conceded) suggests defensive work remains a priority.

What comes next for Lee Ashcroft’s side?

Wigan return to action in their next pre-season friendly on July 29 against Fleetwood Town. Ashcroft will use the remaining friendlies to test new signings and blood youngsters before the curtain-raiser against Bolton Wanderers on August 9.

The loss to Port Vale serves as a reminder of the work still needed before Wigan can push for a higher finish than their 16th-place finish last term. With Lincoln 47 points clear at the top, the gap to the play-offs remains daunting, but pre-season is the time to address those issues.

Wigan Athletic’s next step is to bounce back quickly, with their first competitive fixture just two weeks away.