Bradford City Edge Past Nine-Man Wigan Athletic in Boxing Day Thriller

Late Drama Secures Victory for the Bantams

Bradford City returned to winning ways with a Boxing Day victory, edging past the Latics at the University of Bradford Stadium. Stephen Humphrys fired Bradford ahead, scoring against his former club, before Callum Wright drew level for the visitors. The match took a dramatic turn when Wigan were later reduced to nine men, losing Jensen Weir and Matt Smith to red cards, and succumbed to a Joe Wright winner in the 90th minute.

Match Events and Key Moments

The Bantams took the lead in the 45th minute when Ibou Touray headed Sam Walker’s long free-kick into the path of former Wigan forward Stephen Humphrys to steer an angled drive inside the post. Wigan equalised after 64 minutes when Christian Saydee created a gap for on-loan Plymouth midfielder Callum Wright to convert from close range.

The contest shifted decisively when Latics were dealt a hammer blow with 20 minutes to go when Jensen Weir was shown a second yellow card by referee Sebastian Stockbridge. Matters worsened for the visitors when Matt Smith lunged in on Metcalfe with four minutes to go, with the official brandishing a straight red card from his pocket.

Implications for Both Sides

Graham Alexander’s side currently sit third in the league table, with 37 points from the 20 games that they have played so far. For Wigan, the defeat was particularly damaging. Wigan Athletic slipped to within two points of the League One relegation zone after falling to a last-minute defeat at Bradford City – finishing the game with NINE men.

Bradford manager Graham Alexander reflected on the victory, noting his team’s composure against the depleted opposition. Wigan boss Ryan Lowe acknowledged the difficulty, stating that his players deserved more from the encounter. The result highlights Bradford’s promotion credentials whilst leaving Wigan precariously positioned near the relegation zone as the League One season progresses into the new year.