A second successive Premier League defeat left Wigan fans hoping and praying the Latics can now beat Burnley on Saturday.

Not even Victor Moses' silky skills after coming on as a second half substitute could provide Wigan with a much needed win last night.

Another defeat against Burnley this weekend will really leave Wigan in trouble.

Burnley's visit is massive after more points slip through Wigan's grasp at a crucial stage of the season. James McCarthy's misfortune to put through his own goal to gift Villa the lead.

Wigan were level within two minutes thanks to a Gary Caldwell goal from a free-kick but a second never materialised.

Caldwell made amends for his nightmare display against Bolton at the weekend but James Milner struck in the second half to secure Villa's victory.

To add to Wigan's worries, Charles N'Zogbia went off after 54 minutes to make way for the talented Moses.

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez failed to conceal his disappointment at the result.

He remained in the dressing-room for a good 20 minutes after the game before giving television interviews.

Martinez said: "We now have to prepare for Saturday's home game with Burnley, we are disappointed. We possibly could have taken something from this game."

Wigan created a number of decent chances in the second half but these were not taken and Wigan finished empty-handed.

Martinez added: "We were looking for a reaction from Saturday and got it, it was an open game. The two teams cancelled each other out in midfield but the nature of the goals we conceded was the reason we lost the football game.

"I felt sorry for the players because they gave everything."