Listen to Jimmy Wagg, Liam Bradford and Paul Rowley on BBC Radio Manchester for Wigan Athletic v Crawley Town FA Cup Clash

Football fans across the North West tuned in to BBC Radio Manchester (FM) and BBC Sport Online (Audio) on 4 November 2017 at 15:00 UK time for live coverage of Wigan Athletic versus Crawley Town in the English FA Cup first round. With presenter Jimmy Wagg at the helm, main commentator Liam Bradford and co-commentator Paul Rowley delivered expert insights from the DW Stadium, where a crowd of 3,288 gathered to witness a tense encounter[1][5].

BBC Radio Manchester has long been a go-to for Latics supporters, offering unparalleled access to matches with a team known for their passion and deep knowledge of the club. Jimmy Wagg, a stalwart of Manchester football broadcasting, has hosted countless games over his extensive career, bringing his engaging style and years of experience from BBC Local Radio to keep listeners hooked from kick-off to final whistle. His smooth presentation skills have made him a familiar voice for fans following Wigan Athletic's journeys through the leagues[1].

Main commentator Liam Bradford, born in 1984, emerged as a rising star in sports commentary during this era. With a career spanning radio and online platforms, Bradford's articulate play-by-play captured every moment, drawing on his growing reputation for vivid descriptions and balanced analysis. By 2017, he had honed his craft covering lower-league and cup action, making him perfectly suited to narrate this FA Cup thriller[1].

Joining him was co-commentator Paul Rowley, whose background adds real weight to the broadcast. A former professional player with stints at clubs including Wigan Athletic, Rowley transitioned seamlessly into punditry, offering tactical breakdowns informed by his on-pitch experience. His time as a defender and midfielder gave listeners insider perspectives on set-pieces and defensive strategies, enriching the coverage with authenticity[1].

The match itself was a gritty affair, as Wigan Athletic edged out Crawley Town 2-1 to advance to the second round. Crawley stunned the home side by taking the lead after just 20 minutes, with Jordan Roberts producing a superb volley over his shoulder into the corner, delighting their 157 travelling fans[1]. Wigan responded swiftly, equalising within 10 minutes through Ivan Toney's acrobatic volley from Lee Evans' left-wing cross[1].

Nick Powell missed a golden chance to put the Latics ahead before half-time, spurning a one-on-one opportunity. However, Lee Evans redeemed the side 19 minutes from time with a stunning 35-yard strike using his left foot, rocketing into the roof of the net past helpless goalkeeper Glenn Morris[1]. Stats from the game underline Wigan's dominance: 60% possession, 10 shots to Crawley's 4, and 5 corners to 1[5]. Despite Crawley's resilience, they lacked cutting edge up front in a drab contest illuminated by those three high-quality goals[1].

For Wigan Athletic, then competing in EFL League One, this victory was a timely boost in the famous old competition that levels the playing field between leagues. The Latics, owned by Hong Kong-based IEC Group at the time, had a rich FA Cup history, including reaching the quarter-finals in 2013. Crawley Town, from League Two, showed spirit but couldn't overcome the step up, though their early lead promised a giant-killing[1][5].

Listeners appreciated the BBC's commitment to audio coverage, especially as no TV cameras were present, making radio the prime way to follow the action. BBC Sport Online streamed the commentary worldwide, ensuring global Latics fans didn't miss out. The broadcast highlighted key moments like Wigan's one yellow card and Crawley's higher foul count (18 to 14), painting a picture of a physical battle[5].

Paul Rowley's input proved invaluable during Crawley's late push, analysing how Wigan's midfield control stifled threats. His playing days, including over 100 appearances for Leigh RMI and spells in non-league, lent credibility to his views on Crawley's final-third struggles[1]. Meanwhile, Liam Bradford's energetic calls on goals from Toney and Evans echoed around living rooms and cars across Manchester.

This FA Cup tie exemplified the magic of the competition, with Wigan progressing amid cheers of 3,288 at the DW Stadium. For more on Wigan Athletic's FA Cup heritage, check out their official page at Wigan Athletic FC History. The commentary team's blend of experience and expertise made it an unforgettable listen, cementing BBC Radio Manchester's role in Northern football culture.

In total, the game showcased why radio remains king for cup shocks: immediate, immersive, and packed with pundit gold from the likes of Rowley. As Wigan marched on, fans reflected on a classic first-round scrap delivered flawlessly by Wagg, Bradford, and Rowley[1][5].

Article generated: 4 March 2026, 15:11 GMT