Uganda Cranes defender Toby Sibbick started for Wigan Athletic as they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Premier League side Fulham in the Emirates FA Cup fourth round.
Despite a commendable performance from the young Latics squad, which featured six Heatable Academy graduates, they were edged out by Fulham, who took the win at the Brick Community Stadium.
Rodrigo Muniz scored both of Fulham’s goals, while Jonny Smith’s stunning equalizer in the second half briefly leveled the game for Wigan.
Muniz opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, heading a cross from Steven Sessegnon into the far corner.
Smith responded with a magnificent curling strike from 25 yards in the 50th minute to bring Wigan level.
However, Fulham regained the lead just five minutes later when Muniz converted a pass from Andreas Pereira.
Wigan pressed for an equalizer, but their efforts were thwarted.
A late tap-in from Ronan Darcy in injury time was ruled offside, sealing Fulham’s place in the next round of the competition.
Despite the result, the match was a proud moment for Wigan as they finished with a strong lineup of young talent on the field.
Sibbick, who was part of the starting eleven, contributed to the defensive efforts as the Latics pushed for a comeback.
The Cranes defender will be back in action when Wigan, who are 16th in the League One face Stockport on Saturday 15th February.
