HARRY Kewell hopes his Oldham side now have a platform to build on after their first League Two win of the season at Bolton.

Zak Dearnley’s late winner handed Latics a 2-1 victory over Wanderers, leaving Kewell a relieved man.

While he has enjoyed success in the EFL Trophy, a run of just one point from five games had seen the Australian endure a tough start in the league.

But after Ben Garrity’s first-half opener had been quickly cancelled out by Nathan Delfouneso, Latics were good value for the three points.

“I can’t fault the work rate from my players today. I felt honestly we deserved that win and we could have won by more. From moment one we were on the front foot,” said Kewell.

“The players just needed to believe in themselves. If they kept working and kept sticking to the game plan and formation you will get your opportunities.

“We didn’t look unorganised, we looked compact, we looked strong. The confidence has always been there but hopefully we can be free to really express ourselves now.”

Dearnley’s winner saw him cover plenty of ground before firing home his first league goal of the season.

Kewell was pleased with the former Manchester United man’s impact after replacing Dylan Bahamboula five minutes from time, fellow substitute Alfie McCalmont providing the assist.

“Fair play to Zak – he has had injuries and a spell on the sidelines,” said the head coach.

“But he took his chance well. That’s what we all know Zak can do. We just want to get him to do it more.

“However, it is a positive for the team when the substitutes come on and make a difference.”