A bright opening from the Latics brought two consecutive corners, keeper Chris Day punching clear from the second kick under pressure from Danny Philliskirk
Neat build up play down the Boro left saw the first effort on goal as a James Wesolowski shot cleared the visitors bar.
The visitors came closest to opening the scoring as Luke Jones header, from Boro's first corner of the game, bounced to safety off the bar on 8 minutes.
GOAL 1-0 - Latics take the lead on 12 minutes as Wesolowski stooped to head home a delightful cross from Michael Petrasso. The goal coming after a spell of patient build up play from Lee Johnson's side.
The goal stung Boro into action as Mark Oxley was called into action, diving to his near post to save an effort from Marcus Haber. Francois Zoko then firing over when well placed. Wesolowski then showed his defensive ability as he read the visitors neat training ground free kick routine to clear the ball from danger.
With the half drawing to a close Boro kept up the pressure as they pushed for a leveller, the Latics rearguard standing firm to ensure that Oxley was well protected.
Jonson Clarke-Harris wasted a good chance to give his side a two goal cushion as he blasted an effort wide after finding space in the box.
HT: Latics 1 (Wesolowski) Stevenage 0