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James McClean scored twice as Wigan made it eight consecutive wins in all competitions by beating Ipswich 3-1 at Portman Road.

McClean cancelled out Tommy Smith's opener for the home side before adding to Leon Barnett's goal inside the last 15 minutes.

Ipswich had a number of opportunities but ultimately paid the price for some poor defending.

The result moves Wigan up to fifth place, while Ipswich remain in ninth.

The hosts made a strong start, with Paul Anderson heading narrowly over the crossbar and Daryl Murphy forcing a good save from Latics goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi.

And they got their just reward in the 19th minute when Smith headed home with Wigan unable to clear their lines.

The visitors fought back almost immediately, though, as McClean fired the ball into the net from Marc-Antoine Fortune's low cross.

Luke Hyam should have restored the home side's lead in the 39th minute but, after he shot over from 10 yards, Barnett headed in Jordi Gomez's free kick at the other end to give Wigan a half time lead.

The Latics' superior quality told in the second half and the win was secured when Fortune picked out McClean at the back post for a tap-in.

Ipswich boss Mick McCarthy:

"We played well and I was really pleased with the lads, but we didn't defend particularly well.

"I am not going to be angry. People make mistakes but they are an honest bunch. It happens. You just hope the team you are playing against don't punish you and Wigan did."

Wigan manager Uwe Rosler:

"The games are very busy at the minute but I am not thinking about the FA Cup. I am just thinking about selecting the right team, the right players and the right tactics.

"I am only dreaming about getting two points per game, which would get us into the play-offs and then we will deal with that. We have won eight games, and six have been away from home. I am very happy with everyone."