Latics' mini revival slowed as they surrendered a half-time lead to goals from Curtis Davies and Gabriel Agbonlahor. Despite the great effort form the team, they just couldn't find a way through.

Titus Bramble scored after 28 minutes, his first goal in a Latics' shirt, but tired legs and dreadful weather took their toll on a weary looking Wigan side. Ryan Taylor won a corner when his shot from Marcus Bent's knock down was deflected behind by Martin Laursen.

Taylor swung over the flag-kick from the left, Bramble rising on the edge of the six-yard box to power a header into the roof of the net.

But Villa started their fight back 10 minutes into the second half, central defender Davies heading home Shaun Maloney's corner from six yards. They took the lead in the 70th minute, as Ashley Young beat two Latics defenders on the left side of the box.

He crossed from right on the by-line, where Agbonlahor steered a close range header past Chris Kirkland.

Latics created a couple of half chances before Bramble's goal, Marcus Bent stabbing a close range shot straight at keeper Scott Carson. Antoine Sibierski saw a shot bobble wide of the target from Bent's right-wing centre.

But after the interval it was Villa who was the better side, and they held on to their lead despite late Latics pressure.

A lot of credit has to go to match referee Howard Webb, who officiated this match how it should be done. He only brandished the cards when he really had no option and got all the major decisions correct. Well Done. ( I bet you never thought you'd ever read that???)

Report by Jason Taylor (www.cockneylatic.co.uk)