The 2004-05 campaign was a dramatic fight for survival for The Latics in League One, who ultimately finished 19th, avoiding the drop after a vital late-season managerial change from Brian Talbot to Ronnie Moore. Spearheading the attack was Chris Killen, whose 15 goals across all competitions, including 10 in the league, proved decisive. The season's true glory, however, came in the cups, highlighted by a memorable FA Cup Third Round giant-killing of Premier League rivals Manchester City and a determined run to the Football League Trophy Area Final. It was a turbulent but unforgettable year defined by grit and cup glory that secured their third-tier status.