SWINDON TOWN 1, OLDHAM ATHLETIC 2
A late goal from Danny Philliskirk handed David Dunn his first victory as Oldham Athletic manager at the seventh attempt.
It was a case of lucky seven as Latics recorded only their second league win of the campaign at managerless Swindon Town to move out of the relegation places in Sky Bet League One.
And it was a success that eased the gloom as this was also only their second win in 24 league and cup games stretching back to the end of March.
Mike Jones gave Latics a first-half lead, but it looked as though they had thrown away victory when Nicky Ajose equalised for the Robins with five minutes left.
Latics displayed resolve, though, as Philliskirk popped up with the winner two minutes later as they climbed out of the danger zone.
Michael Higdon, ineligible to play on Saturday against parent-club Sheffield United, returned in place of the unlucky Dominic Poleon while Brian Wilson took over from the suspended Jonathan Burn in the centre of defence.
Swindon, who had chairman Lee Power taking temporary charge of the team, were the better side early on with Ben Gladwin and Bradley Barry going close to breaking the deadlock.
Latics could have gone ahead after 10 minutes but for a fine double save by keeper Lawrence Vigouroux to deny both Carl Winchester and Higdon in the same move.
And the keeper also did well to keep out a long-range effort from Higdon who was 35 yards from goal.
Latics made the all-important breakthrough after 34 minutes when Winchester provided the assist for Jones who curled an effort into the top corner from the edge of the box, his first goal of the season.
Philliskirk had a good chance to double Latics’ lead just before the break.
And not long into the second half Higdon headed Daniel Lafferty’s free kick on to Brian Wilson who fired wide.
Swindon began to take control in the last 10 minutes as they were forced to throw caution to the wind in pursuit of an equaliser.
And they were rewarded through Ajose’s leveller. His initial shot was saved by keeper David Cornell, but the rebound fell invitingly back to him as he made no mistake with a delicate chip.
Latics were quickly back ahead when Philliskirk raced on to a through ball and powered home an unstoppable shot.
And they closed out the game in a highly professional manner to the delight of Dunn.