Willis anger at Wigan ref

The 25-year-old had a decent game on his return to the first team but was unfairly penalised for the challenge that led to the Latics' winner.

He said: "You have to be careful what you say about referees these days because you can land yourself in trouble.

"But the referee's made a decision that's cost us a decent journey home.

"I had a look at the video afterwards and it was as clear as day that I've played the ball.

"I think everyone thought that apart from the referee.

"But as I said, you can't say too much about incidents like that."

Defeat was all the more gutting because Willis felt Town had defended well as a unit.

He said: "We came in at half-time and Andy Gurney turned to me and said all Wigan's possession had been in front of our back three.

"I don't think they've really threatened until the goal, although they had a few efforts once they'd taken the lead."

"But you just can't legislate for decisions like the one that's gone against us.

"The lad's taken the kick and it's got a deflection that's taken it past Bart.

The defender said getting anything from the game then became extremely difficult as pushing forward meant the risk of being caught on the break.

He said: "Danny and Eric going off certainly didn't help because you really need your frontmen, they're so important."

Although angry at Town's failure to keep a clean sheet, Willis admitted he was hoping to put together a run in the side.

He said: "As a defender, a clean sheet is the first thing you look for.

"But from a personal point of view I hope the gaffer will give me another chance.

"I've come in before when people have been out and I don't think I've let anyone down."

Willis will have the chance to press his case for a permanent place in the side as Andy Gurney misses Town's next two games through suspension.

Razor Ruddock will be available for the Hereford FA Cup tie having completed his one-match ban.