Boss pleased as Latics start to look rock solid

OLDHAM head coach Keith Curle says he is starting to see improvement from his side defensively ahead of their game against Exeter City tonight.

Latics return to Boundary Park following a second consecutive draw away at Bradford last weekend, with Curle still looking for a first win since his appointment two weeks ago.

But after seeing only one goal conceded across those past two games, the 57-year-old insists there are positive signs.

“I thought we gave more than our fair share of possession and a goal threat (vs Bradford) and we looked solid at the back,” he said.

“When you walk into a changing room that has previously conceded a large number of goals and we have got an attacking threat, ultimately you’ve got to keep the back door shut as well.”

Tonight’s game sees Curle’s men come up against a side looking to improve on recent results, as two consecutive defeats have moved the visitors four points outside of the play-off spots into 8th.

First-half goals from George Blackwood and former striker Danny Rowe helped Latics to an impressive 2-1 win at St James Park in November, and the new boss believes a similar result is achievable if they continue to adapt to their new way of playing.

“The more that we work with the players the more accustomed they will be to the passing lanes we want to try and produce and if you make a mistake it’s one of those where everyone makes mistakes,” he added.

“There’s no transfer window, we’re not able to bring players in, you’ve to make sure you’re getting the best out of the players you’ve got in there.”