Reuben Hazell's return to Tranmere saw him score the only goal as Oldham went top of the table.
Reuben returns to net only goal at Prenton Park
Tranmere reject Reuben Hazell gave his Oldham side a big lift at Prenton Park as he headed home the only goal of the game to give the Latics a 1-0 win.
It was an enthralling contest but the tension showed with Latics boss John Sheridan ordered from the dugout to the stands six minutes before half-time by referee Andy Hall.
Oldham almost caught Tranmere napping from a long clearance by Mark Crossley in the 18th minute but Danny Coyne denied Craig Davies with an outstretched leg.
Five minutes later it needed an excellent one-handed save by Crossley to keep out a Bas Savage strike.
Sean Gregan almost raised the roof with an ambitious effort from his own half for Athletic with the ball finding the top of the net as Coyne desperately tried to make contact.
Hazell then headed the winner when he ghosted in to plant Andy Liddell's free-kick into the top corner.
