KEVIN Nolan's second goal of the season separates the two sides in a thrilling local derby at the Reebok Stadium.

Wanderers took the lead after only two-and-a-half minutes when El-Hadji Diouf's cross was turned past Chris Kirkland by Austrian defender, Paul Scharner.

Wigan dragged themselves back into the game when Emmerson Boyce's pass was diverted into the path of Denny Landzaat by Abdolaye Meite, and the Dutchman produced a neat finish to place the ball past Jussi Jaaskelainen.

Nicolas Anelka should have restored his side's lead from the spot on 23 minutes when Andreas Granqvist was adjudged to have handled Danny Guthrie's bouncing shot. But the Wanderers striker was unusually wasteful, ballooning his shot well over the bar.

Wigan pressed and only a fine challenge from Nicky Hunt prevented Emile Heskey from tapping the ball into the net when Marcus Bent had done the hard work in getting round Jaaskelainen.

The last word of the half went to Nolan, though, as Hunt slid the ball through for Anelka, who fed the Whites skipper from close range.