Source: PA
Martinez proud of battling Latics
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez believes his side were worthy of at least a point in their draw against Sunderland.
Sunderland skipper Lee Cattermole, making his first return to the DW Stadium since leaving the Latics for Wearside in 2009, was sent off for the second time in three Barclays Premier League games after being booked twice in quick succession midway through the opening period for fouls on Mohamed Diame and Hugo Rodallega.
But despite the loss of Cattermole, Sunderland took the lead in the 66th minute through debutant Asamoah Gyan's strike before a late header from Antolin Alcaraz salvaged a draw for Wigan.
Martinez, who himself brought new arrivals Franco Di Santo and Tom Cleverley off the bench for their debuts, was pleased to see his side come away with a point.
"I think we showed signs of a team that is slowly gelling together with many new faces," Martinez said. "I am extremely delighted with the reaction we had in the second half and the way we worked as a team.
"We were a little bit frustrated and not as fluid as we should have been. But to get back into a game when you are 1-0 down is the hardest thing in football. I was extremely proud at the manner we approached the game and a draw is the least reward we deserved."
