Monday 21 May 2012
Ali Al Habsi was a vital player as Wigan hit good form late in the season
Wigan Athletic goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi says the club's supporters hold the key to a successful season for the Latics in 2012/13.
Roberto Martinez's side seemed destined for the drop with two months of the campaign remaining, but a brilliant late run saw them pull clear.
Wigan finished seven points above the relegation zone and were safe well before their final home match of the Barclays Premier League season against Wolverhampton Wanderers on May 13th.
"We always believed, the fans always believed, and we achieved our aims"
- Ali Al Habsi
A near-capacity crowd saw Wigan finish on a high with a 3-2 victory and Al Habsi said he wanted more of the same next season.
"It was great to see the DW full in the home ends, and it was great to end the season with a win," Al Habsi said.
"Eight years in the Premier League is a fantastic achievement and we did very well this year - particularly at the end.
"We always believed, the fans always believed, and we achieved our aims.
"They are special supporters who carry us forwards, and I would love to see big crowds at the DW next year right from the start.
"You’ve seen how much of an impact they can make, and they’ve been a key reason why we’ve managed to stay up.
"The challenge is to start next year the way we’ve finished this one - and the fans can help make sure we achieve that."