A disappointing opening game for the DW Stadium with Andrew Keogh popping up with the goal that made the difference.
His glancing header early on agonisingly squeezed past Chris Kirkland, nudging the post on its way in and putting the visitors ahead.
Try as they might Wigan Athletic just couldn't breakdown Mick McCarthy's resolute side throughout the rest of the game.
Wolves were almost an exact replica of Latics just three days ago, crisply moving the ball round the pitch, finding space and hunting Roberto Martinez's men down in packs.
The second-half saw a big improvement from the boys, who looked a bit shell-shocked during the first-half in all honesty.
Jordi Gomez started to get more involved, his runs trying to push back the Wolves defence and Charles N'Zogbia was twisting and turning but finding things a little frustrating.
Latics' hard-work and effort almost brought reward right at the death, with Jordi Gomez and Scott Sinclair, one substitutes who really impressed when he came into the fray, combining to so nearly bring things even.
The Spaniard gaining possession just outside the area, whipping the ball into the six yard box for the arriving winger to shave the post and run wide.
McCarthy's side were good value for their win and despite a slow start there were signs of encouragement in the latter stages of the game for Martinez. His first game at home brought about a disappointing result, but by no means were outplayed.
