Wigan show real bottle for pioneer Martinez

ROBERTO MARTINEZ is a proud teetotaller but will have relished being drenched in champagne last night.

As he threw his trademark jacket into the away end in celebration, Martinez had been vindicated after displaying unwavering commitment not only to his players, but to the effervescent, brave brand of football that ultimately secured their safety.

The season started with Wigan haemorrhaging 10 goals in their opening two games, against Blackpool and Chelsea. Even this year they had only spent three weeks out of the relegation zone but Wigan have never attempted to pilfer points, earning just as many admirers as the 42 they accrued in a roller coaster campaign.