Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has praised Wigan Athletic after watching his side struggle to overcome them 2-0 in the Premier League.

The Sky Blues boss admitted that the Latics made it difficult for them throughout the evening, pointing out that Mario Balotelli's 69th-minute opener changed the game.

"I think playing against Wigan is always very difficult. Tonight was the same, we played very well for first 15 minutes but after Wigan played better than us for the rest of the half," BBC Sport quotes Mancini as saying.

"Wigan played well and disrupted our rhythm, they were always in a good position. They have a good manager.

"The first goal was important as it changed the game. After this, everything was good for us and Milner scored a great goal."

The result consolidates City's position in second place in the Premier League, one point behind leaders Manchester United.