Rafael Benitez refused to excuse his side for a poor performance at the DW Stadium where Liverpool lost 1-0 and suffered a first ever defeat at Wigan's hands.

His charge's demeanour came under intense scrutiny from the Anfield boss immediately after the game.

"I'm really disappointed," said Benitez. "The first half we didn't do anything and we didn't show the attitude that is required. It's difficult to explain.

"At half-time we talked about the things we weren't doing well - the attitude and the character. We made too many mistakes and played too quickly."

There was no attempt from the Spaniard to mount a defence for a display which possibly counts as the season's worst.

"We didn't deserve anything in the first half," Benitez added. "The second half we worked harder but Wigan defended really well."

His opposite number Roberto Martinez deservedly soaked in the victory - his side's first in 14 games - and praised his team.

"We were worthy winners and that speaks volumes about the character of the players," he said. "We have had a few painful lessons and thrown away 19 points and had we even kept half of them we would be in a completely different situation.

"We are a young squad but the way we beat Liverpool and Chelsea a few months ago shows the potential they have.

"We must make sure that we finish the season as strongly as we can do.

"It was pleasing to be able to perform the way we did, but the application, concentration and desire to keep Liverpool as quiet as we did is a huge compliment to the players.

"We have got five huge games left at home - it is important the players understand the magnitude of this performance. This standard is something we need to show week in, week out."