Latics inched their way further clear of the relegation places in Coca-Cola League One following a hard-earned 1-0 derby victory at Stockport County.

Pawel Abbott scored the match-winning goal, but recalled goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan was their hero making two breathtaking saves early in the game.

Latics will be disappointed not to have won by a wider margin bearing in mind they had an extra man for three quarter of the match after Stockport  had Danny Swailes sent off for conceding the penalty from which Abbott scored the match-winning goal. 

Latics struggled to take advantage of their extra player as Stockport's 10 men maintained a foothold in the game.

But the second period lacked the drama and excitement of the opening half with both goalkeepers essentially spectators.

Manager Dave Penney made the first of his three permitted substitutions in the 70th minute replacing debut-making striker Lewis Guy with midfield man Danny Whitaker as Deane Smalley moved inside to partner Pawel Abbott.

That was quickly followed by Jon Worthington replacing Alewx Marrow is a straight swop in the centre of midfield while late on teenager Tom Eaves replaced Abbott..

Stockport still sensed they could snatch an equaliser as David Perkins set up Jabo Ibehre whose angled shot forced a diving save from keeper Darryl Flahavan.

Latics had a chance to double their lead late on when Chris Taylor broke clear on the left but he dragged his shot wide and again in stoppage time when Deane Smalley was denied by a smart save from keeper Owain Fon Williams.

Full time: Stockport 0, Latics 1.