Forget Europe and focus on Wigan: Scott Aug 11 2006 By Alan Oliver, The Evening Chronicle 　　Newcastle United skipper Scott Parker was happy to focus on the start of the Premiership in eight days time after he led his side to a 1-0 victory over FK Ventspils in the UEFA Cup second qualifying round first leg in Riga last night. 　　Parker was in a five-man United midfield which played some tidy football, but which in the end needed another goal from a set-piece when Titus Bramble thumped in a header from Emre's left-wing corner-kick to give them victory. 　　It was a happy United party which left the Skonto Stadium just before midnight local time with their attentions very much on a weekend off - and the Premiership opener with Wigan Athletic at St James' Park a week tomorrow. 　　And he said: "The Wigan game is the one we are focusing on now, because we want to start the season well. 　　"We had a job to do in Latvia, and we did what we had to do. 　　"We were probably expected to win the game, but it wasn't easy for us. 　　"We got the clean sheet, and an away goal, and a similar result in the home leg means we're through. 　　 　　"We're full of confidence for that one, but the next game is Wigan on the opening day and we have to be ready for that. It's been a difficult pre-season for us. 　　"We had competitive games early on, and then we had some friendlies against top-class opposition which will stand us in good stead for the start of the season. 　　"We're getting there in terms of fitness, and while it may take a few games for us to get right up to where we want to be, we're on the way. 　　"These things take time - they always do - but we'd love to get off to a good start by beating Wigan next week and we're all looking forward to the game now." --

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