Northampton’s winless run was extended after they were defeated 2-1 at Wigan Athletic.

Two goals in the early stages by Thelo Aasgaard and Jonny Smith proved decisive for the Latics. Substitute Tom Eaves had brought Northampton a goal back in the second half, but it wasn’t enough for the Cobblers.

The result means Northampton are now without a win in 5 League One games ahead of the division’s week off due to the FA Cup. They now sit in 18th position in the table and three points ahead of the relegation zone.

Wigan took the lead early on after Dale Taylor’s pass released Aasgaard, who burst through before beating Lee Burge in a one-on-one.

Five minutes later, Wigan scored again, as Smith was able to collect the ball, work space outside the box and curl a fine shot into the top corner.

Northampton nearly fell further behind in the first half, with Taylor firing a shot over before Jensen Weir had a shot blocked on the line by Aaron McGowan.

But the Cobblers would grab a goal back ten minutes after the break. Nesta Guinness-Walker’s cross picked out Eaves, who held off his defensive marker before slotting a strike into the back of the net.

This was the cue for Northampton to make their best opportunities. Liam McCarron was denied by Wigan goalkeeper Sam Tickle in a one-on-one after an underhit backpass released the Northampton substitute.

In the late stages, Tickle was called upon again to make a big stop to keep out Sam Hoskins after he could only parry Eaves’ initial cross.

But the visitors ran out of time to gather an equaliser, and they ultimately left Wigan defeated.

Northampton are next in action in a week’s time, which will see them travel to play Stevenage.