From the first whistle, it was clear Dawson had not come to play open football.
The back three held a tight line, and the midfield triangle sat deep.
Leo anchored it, Max Power drifting to his left, Naylor to his right.
On paper, it was a 3-5-2 formation, but in motion, it looked more like a wall.
Rotherham, with the ball possession, tried to lead the Wigan players on.
They pushed their fullbacks high and played early balls into the channels, testing Wigan's shape more than their goalkeeper.
The home crowd responded to every forward run with noise, urging shots even when there was no space.
"Bright start from Rotherham," the commentator said. "They want to pin Wigan back and ask questions early."
Leo stayed where he was told.
He kept his distance from the back line, always five or six yards ahead, scanning before the ball even reached him.
When it did, the passes were simple.
One touch to Power.
