Harchester United got 2008 off to a winning start, but in no way at all did they deserve all three points against a battling Wigan side this afternoon at the Dragons Lair.

Jimmy Craig dropped several key players including Ryan Naysmith, Darren Tyson and Jason Porter for unknown reasons and it was left to the likes of Lamin Oja and Orin Stewart to pick up the pieces in midfield.

Wigan came close several times throughout the game, Emile Heskey came closest in the 2nd half but he hit the post. Marcus Bent also struck the woodwork with around 15 minutes left to play.

But it was the story of the festive period once again that reared its head - a late penalty. It was a dubious decision to say the least, but it was awarded against Titus Bramble for hand ball from which Liam Mackay converted.