Match Report: Stevenage Borough 1-0 Wigan Athletic – EFL League One, May 2, 2026

Stevenage Borough ended their EFL League One season on a high with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Wigan Athletic at the Lamex Stadium. A goal just before the hour mark proved enough to separate the sides, as Stevenage’s defensive resilience frustrated a Wigan side that pushed for an equaliser until the final whistle.

Match Overview

With both teams safely in mid-table, the final-day fixture provided an opportunity for both managers to rotate and give opportunities to squad players. That said, the match was far from a dead rubber, with both sides showing plenty of intensity and desire to end the campaign on a positive note. Stevenage were the more energetic side in the first half, while Wigan grew into the game after the interval.

Key Moments

• 12th minute – Stevenage’s Jamie Reid saw his powerful header from a corner saved by Wigan goalkeeper Sam Tickle.
• 34th minute – Wigan’s Josh Magennis had a goal ruled out for offside after a neat finish from a cutback.
• 58th minute – The opening goal: Stevenage’s Jordan Roberts picked up the ball on the left wing, cut inside onto his right foot, and curled a beautiful shot into the far corner from 20 yards, giving Tickle no chance.
• 74th minute – Wigan substitute Charlie Hughes hit the post with a header from a free kick, the closest the visitors came to an equaliser.
• 88th minute – Stevenage goalkeeper Taye Ashby-Hammond made a crucial save, tipping a fierce drive from Wigan’s Callum Lang over the bar.

Tactical Story

Stevenage manager Steve Evans employed his trademark 3-5-2 formation, relying on wing-backs to provide width and a strong central defensive trio to absorb pressure. Wigan, under Shaun Maloney, set up in a 4-2-3-1, aiming to dominate possession through midfield. Stevenage’s goal came from a moment of individual brilliance from Roberts, after which the hosts dropped deep to defend their lead. Wigan pushed forward in the closing stages but found Stevenage’s backline resolute and well-organised.

Standout Players

• Jordan Roberts (Stevenage) – Scored the match-winning goal with a stunning strike and was a constant threat on the counter-attack.
• Taye Ashby-Hammond (Stevenage) – Made several key saves, particularly the late stop from Lang, to secure a clean sheet and a win.
• Luther Wildin (Stevenage) – Solid in defence, winning numerous headers and tackles, and offering an outlet on the overlap.

Table and Season Impact

The win lifts Stevenage Borough to 10th place in the final League One table with 65 points, a strong finish that builds momentum for next season. Wigan Athletic end the campaign in 11th place with 63 points, a respectable season but with room for improvement in the final third. Both clubs will look to build on these foundations in the 2026-27 season.