Hugo Rodallega's first-half strike saw Wigan deservedly beat a below-par Portsmouth 1-0 at the JJB Stadium.
The Latics dominated and took the lead in the 26th minute through a Rodallega tap-in after Sol Campbell missed a Charles N'Zogbia cross from the left.
Mario Melchiot then had a chance ten minutes after being allowed to run on goal and playing a one-two with Rodallega but his close range shot was well stopped by Pompey keeper Asmir Begovic before he put the rebound over.
In the second period, Pompey improved but could not fashion a chance, while at the other end Rodallega shot into the side netting.
Rodallega's winner was his third goal in four matches as Wigan ended a run of three successive defeats.
It meant he somewhat stole the limelight from winger Antonio Valencia, who put in a man-of-the-match performance on what is expected to be his final appearance for the club before a big-money summer move.
Victory ended a dismal spell that had seen the Latics take only one point from the previous seven matches and was only their fourth win since the turn of the year.
It was that form that put paid to their hopes of European football next season as they dropped out of contention for seventh place having secured their top-flight future at the end of March.
However, they finished 11th in the league table, their best since the all-time high of 10th under Paul Jewell in 2005/06.
For Portsmouth this was a 13th match on the road without victory.
Highlight:
Wigan Athletic Vs. Portsmouth at FootyTube.com
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