Pawel Abbott's ninth goal of the season eased some of the pressure on Oldham boss Dave Penney as they recorded a second win from 12 games.

Penney had made two changes to the side beaten by Millwall a fortnight ago with on-loan Jason Price making his debut and Danny Whitaker recalled in midfield.

On paper, a game featuring the lowest and third-lowest scorers in League One did not promise the most appetising 90 minutes of the season.

A first half which offered much in the way of endeavour, if not clear chances, ended with Athletic in front.

Having seen a shot deflected behind, Abbott headed home the subsequent corner four minutes before half-time.

With fog encircling Prenton Park after the break both teams again battled hard without turning the game into a classic.

Luke Daniels pushed Whitaker's header over while Dean Brill saved Chris Shuker's low effort at the other end. It was Brill who ensured three points for Athletic late on, saving Marvin Sordell's close-range effort and then blocking his follow-up.