NORS POWERS TO THE PEOPLE

JAMES NORWOOD says a pre-match pep talk from Oldham Athletic owner Frank Rothwell was the perfect reminder of who the players are represent- ing.

- Matt Badcock

Rothwell and his family rescued the club from going to the wall in 2022.

And Norwood says the Latics' spirit and character is summed up by their stirring comeback victory.

"It's testament to the club," the striker said. "Frank came in pre-match and spoke to us about how the club was moments away from not existing. The lads took that on board.

"The support from the fans, everything accumulated throughout the week, the players' togetherness, the gaffer, the chairman - it's such a close-knit club.

"It's so big for the town, so big for everybody here and so long without success. It was about time we brought success to this club."

Norwood came off the bench to more than play his part, showing all his years of experience with the extra-time leveller to race clear, pop the ball past Southend keeper Nick Hayes and roll into the net.

"I pride myself on scoring goals," the 34-year-old said. "I just asked for a chance. I had one in the 93rd-minute but I haven't played much football since January so I was a little bit rusty and missed.

"But I said to myself, if I get another chance I always feel I am going to be composed in those situations.