It’s been a while since Latics fans have had an away day to cheer at Craven Cottage.
The early morning cans on the train and re-learning the hang of swiping tube tickets in just the right way at the barriers make for a great ‘Northerners On Tour’ day out.
But it’s fair to argue that a sleepy journey back to North Western with three points to smile about is overdue.
Not since Henri Camara’s winner in October 2006 has that been the case – not that Warren Joyce appreciated the reminder.
“Thanks for that,” he laughed when given the history lesson.
“But every game has got its own set of problems.
“You just look to win it and I don’t think statistics have anything to do with that.
“They have a way and method of playing that we’ve got to be able to adapt to and stop and they’ve all got their weaknesses that we look to exploit, so every game’s the same for me really.”
Latics arrive in the capital for this afternoon’s game with renewed confidence, especially given the performance of new signing Omar Bogle against Norwich last Tuesday.
Okay, so Latics lost their grip on a 2-1 lead to drop two points in their survival fight, but given the Canaries’ position – they could probably touch the play-offs with their fingertips – most Wigan fans would have taken a point before kick-off.
And discounting the Sheffield Wednesday defeat just over a week ago, Latics’ league form looks promising.
Their structure looks more solid, there’s just the nagging worry that time is not quite on their side in the race to climb free of the trap door before it swings shut.
But Joyce says there are ‘plenty of games’ to ensure a survival bid is successful, and he’d be right given his side’s current form.
With two wins and a draw from the last four, keep that up and 17 games should be plenty to make ground on the sides above them in the safety zone – a gap currently standing at five points.
And Joyce isn’t worried about 10th-placed Fulham, though he acknowledges the test from Slavisa Jokanovic’s side, reeling from last week’s 1-0 loss to Birmingham, will be stern.
“They’ve got a lot of talent,” he explained.
“They’re a good side with a good stadium and a lot of fans.
“It’s another good test for us and one we’re relishing.”