It was not a vintage Manchester City performance although David Silva’s first half strike ensured that Roberto Mancini’s team collected three precious points and now sit seven behind leaders Manchester United.
Silva appeared to have a lot of work to do when collecting the ball in the 38th minute, although a slip from Antolin Alcaraz and a blunder from Ali Al Habsi allowed the ball to squirm across the goal line and City were able to hold on for a relatively comfortable win.
Things could have been so different if James McCarthy had converted a first half chance when the ball landed at his feet twelve yards from goal. The Scot blazed his shot wide and City were ahead soon afterwards.
Latics manager Roberto Martinez will feel frustrated that his team lost due to a goalkeeping blunder, with the Wigan defence managing to keep Carlos Tevez at bay, while Mario Balotelli’s threat was also nullified.
The Italian was withdrawn for Aleksandar Kolarov in the 68th minute with the visitors having ensured that the forward was making a limited impact from out wide, although Wigan chances were scarce.
As the game approached the 90th minute, the ball fell into the path of Hugo Rodallega, although the Colombian seemed to be uncomfortable on his left foot and Joe Hart made a comfortable save.
The result leaves Wigan rooted to the foot of the Premier League and games are now running out for the Lancashire side to preserve their top flight status.