Thomas Ince's penalty has given Blackpool a crucial half-time lead at home to Wigan Athletic as they look to continue their push for promotion from the Championship.

Wigan had a good early chance to score when Thomas Rogne headed Ben Watson's free kick across goal into the path of Manchester United loanee Nick Powell, who was unmarked, but the youngster put his effort wide.

Thomas Ince came close for Blackpool on 12 minutes when he met Chris Basham's cross before blazing his volley over the bar.

He made up for his miss by tuck home a penalty midway through the half after Dan Gosling was tripped by keeper Scott Carson, who was not booked for his challenge.

The Latics almost equalised instantly as Powell's clever flick at goal left Blackpool keeper rooted to the spot as the ball whistled past the post.

Blackpool started the game in the playoff places while Wigan currently lie 10th in the Championship table.