Watford secured a 1-0 victory over Wigan Athletic in the Championship thanks to a late goal from Cristian Battocchio.

Wigan caused problems early on and created the game's first chance when Ben Watson found James McArthur in the box, but he fired just wide of the left post.

Owen Coyle's men were furious with the referee when Nick Powell smashed the ball into the net following good work from James McClean, but the goal was disallowed.

The sides came out after half time looking to take the game to each other, but neither were able to put together any moves of real attacking worth until late in the half.

It looked as if Wigan were to grab a vital penalty in the 77th minute after Powell went down inside the box, but the referee waved play on much to the delight of Watford's defence.

The away side threatened again late on, but were made to pay in the 82nd minute when Battocchio scored against the run of play to give Watford the victory.