Wigan Athletic's eight-year stay in the Premier League came to an end with a 2-2 draw with Aston Villa at the DW Stadium this afternoon.

Darren Bent's early goal was cancelled out by a Nathan Baker own goal and Emmerson Boyce's header before the break.

Ron Vlaar's spectacular volley restored parity in the second half, but neither team could force a winner.

Here, Sports Mole takes a closer look to see if the result was fair.

Match statistics

Wigan
Shots: 17
On Target: 4
Possession: 54%
Corners: 4
Fouls: 11

Villa
Shots: 9
On Target: 3
Possession: 46%
Corners: 2
Fouls: 13

Was the result fair?

Yes. Neither side can complain that with the final outcome. The quality of the play was indicative of two teams who have been fighting a relegation scrap all season.

Wigan's performance

Going forward, the Latics don't have too many problems - it's at the back where the danger lies and has been there for a few seasons now. Their passing lacked forward penetration and was, at times, far too casual in their own half. James McArthur worked his socks off, while Shaun Maloney showed flashes of the ability that has many praising his efforts this season.

Villa's performance

Again, it's in defence where Villa have let themselves down this season. They wasted a number of set pieces from good areas today, and that's something Paul Lambert will have to work on. Gabriel Agbonlahor was a bright spark for Villa, always wanting the ball. He looked the most likely to make something happen, and did so by creating the first goal for Darren Bent. Ron Vlaar's goal was the pick of the bunch.

Referee's performance

Kevin Friend was kept busy today, but there were no horrible challenges - just a lot of clumsy fouls. He had a decent game.

Sports Mole's man of the match

James McArthur: He was all over the pitch today and was unlucky not to finish with a goal as he saw an effort come back off the bar.

Biggest gaffe

It may be unfair to label this as a 'gaffe', but Nathan Baker's own goal is the only one that springs to mind. Joe Bennett's goalline clearance rebounded off the unfortunate centre-back before going into the net.

What's next?

Wigan: The Latics will spend next season in the Championship, but the future of manager Roberto Martinez is still undecided. Everyone at the DW Stadium will no doubt be pulling for him to stay.

Villa: Paul Lambert's young team have secured their safety in the Premier League for next season and will no doubt be looking to improve on what has been a hard slog this season. A year older, a year wiser perhaps?