Wales were without Ceri Holland, a player Wilkinson says it is not possible to replace, after the Liverpool star withdrew from the squad through injury.
The loss of Holland was a significant blow for a squad still readjusting following the retirement of Jess Fishlock last October, yet in truth she was not missed as Wales had more than enough quality to overcome opponents who are 40 places below them in the Fifa rankings.
Wilkinson had urged her players to "live in Albania's half" before kick-off and, for the most part, they did as their head coach demanded.
The opening goal might have come earlier, with Cain twice going close before sweet passes from Angharad James and Mared Griffiths – and some hesitant goalkeeping from Rajmonda Spahiu – allowed the Leicester City forward to steer home a fifth goal in Wales' past four games.
Cain turned provider as she crossed for Wales' second, although Spahiu played a part again as her fumble allowed the alert Hughes to hook the ball in from close range.
This was a game of attack-versus-defence for long spells – and while Wales kept a first clean sheet in 18 games with comfort, the Albanian rearguard regularly wobbled.
Wales stretched their advantage when a corner was only half-cleared and teenager Griffiths crossed for veteran Roberts to score just her third goal in 87 internationals.
The fourth goal was perhaps the best of the evening, as a crisp move ended with Lily Woodham centring for Cain to steer home on the half-volley.
Image source, PA Media
