Wigan v Everton

Tim Cahill was the hero for Everton as David Moyes' Blues secured their third consecutive league victory.

The Aussie international headed home powerfully from a Leighton Baines corner with just six minutes remaining of a match which had - prior to that point - proved hugely frustrating for the Toffees.

The match officials had contrived to turn down two strong penalty claims and rule out a Marouane Fellaini goal which seemed perfectly legitimate.

They could have proved costly instances for Moyes' men. But Cahill ensured it was merely academic as the Blues continue to pressure the teams above them as the battle for European qualification gets back on track.

However, it was an edgy encounter - and a number of notable misses by Wigan should not be overlooked. Ultimately, though, Everton's spirit and superior quality shone through on an afternoon when Philippe Senderos was handed his debut for the Blues. He was the only change from the team that had defeated Sunderland days earlier.

And, having waltzed to three points in that match, the early indications were Everton would do likewise here.

Leon Osman tip-toed through inside two minutes. His shot didn't trouble Vladimir Stojkovic - but the ease with which the visitors opened up the home defence suggested it would be a profitable afternoon for the Blues' forwards.

But in the 20 minutes that followed the true task became more apparent.

There were half chances for Cahill and Wigan keeper Vladimir Stojkovic, who spent a brief trial at Everton last year, produced an acrobatic tip-over to deny Louis Saha. But there was little else for the away side.

Tim Cahill battles with Hendry Thomas

Then came the first penalty claim. Saha was denied by referee Lee Probert - who waved away strong claims for a penalty on the half-hour when Gary Caldwell seemed to trip the forward.

Stojkovic had earlier been beaten on 23 minutes by a deflected shot from Saha which struck the post. But the linesman's flag meant it wouldn't have counted - with the deflection provided by Cahill in an offside position.

Stojkovic's opposite number was also tested during that opening quarter - Tim Howard doing well to parry a Hugo Rodallega effort from the edge of the box on 19 minutes.

Jason Scotland then fired over in a one-on-one on 26 minutes as his search for a Premier League goal continued.

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