Arsenal could only extend their lead at the top of the table to two points after being held to a goalless draw at Wigan.

The Latics deservedly earned a valuable point on a poor pitch at the JJB Stadium to move above Newcastle in their battle against the drop.

Emmanuel Adebayor and Cesc Fabregas wasted Arsenal’s best two chances at the start and end of what was a scrappy game, both being denied by fine stops from Chris Kirkland. Antonio Valencia’s effort, that forced Manuel Almunia into a great save, was the closest Steve Bruce’s side came to a shock win.

Adebayor wasted a superb chance inside the first few minutes when, after being sent clear, Kirkland came out to save well but the visitors struggled to get their trademark flowing football going on the awful JJB pitch while Wigan worked hard to deny Arsene Wenger’s side space.

Cesc Fabregas was a shadow of the player who excelled at the San Siro against Milan on Tuesday but his header did force Kirkland into another stop midway through a first half with very few chances at either end.

Wigan improved after the break and a Jason Koumas shot, that was deflected narrowly wide, and an effort from distance from Valencia, that tested Almunia, almost saw them going in front.

Substitute Robin van Persie did blast a late free-kick and shot over as Arsenal searched for all three points but Wigan’s defence held firm and Arsenal had to settle for a draw.