Manchester City 0 Wigan 1:  Lee McCulloch made the most of a costly blunder from Manchester City goalkeeper David James as Wigan snatched three points at Eastlands.

James failed to make two straightforward clearances 10 minutes into the second half, with McCulloch powering a header from the resulting corner.

Having not played for England since the disastrous defeat to Denmark in August, James showed glimpses of the concentration lapses which cost him his number one spot to Paul Robinson.

It also contributed to another chapter of Wigan’s impressive opening Premiership season, with Paul Jewell’s men seizing their opportunity to maintain their slim hopes of UEFA Cup qualification.

City could also qualify, although their route is likely to come from the FA Cup.

Wigan had the attacking edge in the opening stages, despite City hitting the bar through Sylvain Distin’s block of a throw-out by Latics goalkeeper John Filan.

Wigan attacked in more conventional ways, most of their efforts stemming from the busy Jimmy Bullard.

Bullard had his side’s opening effort with a volley from outside the area which Distin, recalled to the side after recovering from a virus, blocked.

James was forced into a save after 26 minutes when Distin chased Camara but failed to clear with conviction. The ball fell invitingly for Gary Teale but his low drive was well held.

Stephen Ireland, who was full of energy throughout, broke away in the final minute of the first half and was hacked down by Baines, with Filan needed to punch the free-kick away to safety.

Wigan took the lead in the 55th minute from another corner,  gifted to them after James’ mistake. He made a hash of his first effort from a hopeful punt, then conceded a corner when he sliced Sommeil’s backpass.

McCulloch rose to powerfully head in Bullard's corner, leaping above Samaras and Distin.

PA