The first division's most feared strikeforce struck once again to keep Wigan Athletic riding high at the top of the table.
A goal each from Jason Roberts and Nathan Ellington in an impressive first-half performance from the home side brought their tally to nine as the Latics survived a second-half fightback to steer clear of the chasing pack.
Ellington struck with a 14th minute penalty after he had been brought down by Rhys Weston and then Roberts added a second 11 minutes before the break and it seemed plain sailing.
But wigan failed to maintain the momentum after the break and a dogged Cardiff outfit began to force their way back into the contest.
With striker Alan Lee and winger Jobi McAnuff proving a real handful, the Wigan defence began to wilt under pressure and it was no surprise when the Bluebirds forced their way back into the match with a 65th minute penalty.
A neat throughball from McAnuff sent Andy Campbell racing clear and when his ankle was tapped by home keeper John Filan, referee Eddie Ilderton had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
Lee converted with ease to set up a frantic finale, but Wigan held out and David Wright could have eased their nerves, while Ellington, Roberts and Per Frandsen all missed late chances.
External reports
Western Mail
South Wales Echo
Wiganer.net