Shaun Maloney's second half strike gave the Latics their first ever win over United and ensured United's lead at the top of the Premier League was cut to five points.

It was also a night packed with controversy, with replays showing Wigan should not have been awarded the corner that led to the goal while United also saw their second half penalty claims for handball turned down.

Wigan themselves were left aggrieved when Victor Moses' first half header was disallowed for an apparent push by Gary Caldwell on goalkeeper David De Gea.

Ferguson was unhappy with the performance of the officials but was quick to praise Roberto Martinez and his battling Latics side.

"It was a disappointing night for us, in the first half we were totally dominated by Wigan," Ferguson told Sky Sports.

Awful

"It was of those awful nights that you sometimes get in football and it's unavoidable sometimes.

"I think Phil Dowd had a disappointing game tonight but doesn't take away from the fact Wigan were the better team and deserved to win.

"They play terrific football, are underrated, in a false position and really deserved the win tonight.

"The kind of football they play considering their position is a credit to their manager.

"Some of the football they play is outstanding, so we weren't under any illusions, but the thing is we just didn't cope with it."

Ferguson was also philosophical about the title race, with this defeat combined with Manchester City's win over West Brom cutting United's lead at the top.

"We wish it was better but considering where we were a few months ago I think we have to accept that fact that both teams will drop points some point down the line," added the 70-year-old.