FA Cup Replay: Wigan v Bolton

The north-west derby between Wigan and Bolton will be their fourth clash of the season and all three previous encounters have ended in stalemate. Two 1-1 draws in the league and the 0-0 game in the Cup two weeks ago don’t bode well for a thriller but a punt on this one going to extra time and beyond could prove worthwhile. Both sides are 9/1 with PaddyPower to win on penalties.

Based on league standings Bolton, in 8th, should have the edge over Roberto Martinez’s strugglers, who are 18th and in the relegation zone. The Trotters had a timely win on Sunday against Everton but most pundits described them as ‘less bad’ than their opponents, rather than particularly good. Wigan could certainly argue that their recent form is in fact better after their highly credible point at Anfield at the weekend. This followed on from a 4-3 win over Blackburn and a plucky 2-2 draw at West Brom.

Indeed, with home advantage the Latics have plenty of reason for hope. The absence of new Bolton talisman Daniel Sturridge, who is cup-tied after three goals in three games, will only add to that. I fancy Wigan at 9/1 to progress after some spot-kick drama.