A strong second half performance ensures Latics clinch all three points against a typically physical Stevenage side.
Latics started on the front foot again in the second half, Clarke-Harris again guilty of wasting a good opportunity, firing wide after a neat pass from Gary Harkins put him through on goal.
Latics keeper Oxley came to his side's rescue on 50 minutes, diving to save a low drive from Dean Parrett, Haber firing the loose ball over the bar. Wesolowski was penalised for a foul on 54 minutes, with many inside Boundary Park expecting the free kick to be awarded the other way. Latics defensive wall ensuring justice as Luke Freeman's kick was charged down.
Louder appeals came from the home support moments later as Harkins was clearly fouled as he strode through the Boro defence, referee Rushton allowing play to carry on before booking Jones for his challenge.
The visitors were looking lively pushing forward and Genserix Kusunga had to react quickly to clear the danger after Oxley had tipped away a low shot from Boro substitute Darius Charles.
The tiring Harkins, who had impressed all with his efforts, was replaced on 74 minutes by James Dayton.
Wesolowski came close to doubling both his and Latics tally as his effort from well outside the box, after yet another free kick awarded against the visitors, had been blocked on the 6 yard line. Philliskirk blazing the loose ball well wide.
The visitors heavy handed tactics caught up with them on 85 minutes as Ben Chorley, who had been having a running battle with Clarke- Harris, was shown a red card for an off the ball incident which had left the Latics forward on the floor.
Moments later manager Lee Johnson made a double substitution, replacing Clarke-Harris and Petrasso with Charlie MacDonald and Adam Rooney.
With Latics looking to push home their man advantage skipper Korey Smith tested keeper Day with a well struck free kick, Philliskirk wasting a good chance to clinch victory as he shot wide in added time.
FT: Latics 1 (Wesolowski) Stevenage 0
ATT: 3,460 (90)