Bold Bruce Rewarded

After the 1-1 draw with Chelsea, Latics manager Steve Bruce was doubly happy. The result left the Latics six points clear of the relegation zone and also helped his former club, Manchester United, preserve most of their lead at the top of the table.

On what should have been a night of celebration for Chelsea as they notched up 100 home games unbeaten, the draw was little consolation in the race for the title.

Chris Kirkland was outstanding in the Wigan goal under the watchful eye of England manager Fabio Capello and Heskey's goal with have done him plenty of favours if the Italian stayed to the end this week.

Bruce was bold enough to add Antoine Sibierski and Jason Koumas to the game at a time when the Latics were 1-0 down and most managers would be wanting to preserve face.

However, this proved to be a tactical masterstroke by the former United skipper as first Sibierski was denied, before Koumas curled his cross behind the defence and onto the outstretched leg of Emile Heskey.

This was only the third goal of the season for the 29 year old but it cancelled out Michael Essien's striker earlier in the game for Chelsea as Wigan came away with a vital point.

Perhaps somewhat more suprising than the 1-1 scoreline was the comment from Bruce post game in which he confirmed the ability of United boss Sir Alex Ferguson to send a text message.

A fantastic result for the Latics as much as this must be a let down for Chelsea. A superb team performance and some cracking saves from Chris Kirkland means that mathematical safety is within touching distance.