The ever-reliable Pawel Abbott gave Latics a half-time lead in an incident-filled local derby at Stockport County

Latics' top scorer was on target for the 11th time this season, but the real hero of the opening period was recalled keeper Darryl Flahavan who pulled off two superb saves early in the game as Stockport threatened to run riot.

Latics were lucky not to fall behind in the eighth minute when Jabo Ibehre raced clear on to a through ball from George Donnelly but the Stockport striker was denied by a super save from Flahavan.

There was another let off moments later when a header from right-back Johnny Mullins from a corner looped over the head of Flahavan, but Sean Gregan saved the day with a headed goalline clearance.

Danny Swailes then had a free header following a free kick, but was unable to direct his header on target.

Latics were well and truly under the cosh as Flahavan came to their rescue again with a brilliant reaction save to keep out a close-range header from Mullins following a free kick,

Having survived the early onslaught, Latics took the lead midway through the half when debut-making Lewis Guy burst through on goal only to be fouled by Swailes in the penalty area.

Referee Jon Moss ruled Swailes has denied Guy a goalscoring chance and the defender was sent off and Abbott scored from the spot to give Latics the lead against the run of play.

The balance of power suddenly tilted the way of Latics who had an extra man and Chris Taylor was denied by a superb save from keeper Owain Fon Williams who was being watched by Wales under-21 manager Brian Flynn.

Stockport refused to concede defeat and David Poole burst through on goal on the left only to pull his angled shot wide when he looked certain to equalise.

Half-time: Stockport 0, Latics 1.