Latics defeated at Bristol Rovers

SHOT . . . Lee Erwin went close for Athletic

BRISTOL ROVERS 1, ATHLETIC 0

ELLIS Harrison struck the winning goal as Athletic were edged out in a tight game at the Memorial Stadium.

Goalkeeper Connor Ripley was called into action to deny Billy Bodin with a smart low save in the opening minute, later parrying further first-half efforts from the same player and then Ellis Harrison.

At the other end, John Sheridan's side could not find a cutting edge in the opening half despite controlling most of the contest in midfield.

Athletic, making three changes from the side that beat Bolton, were put under more pressure after the break and Ripley had to be alert to produce a flying save from Stuart Sinclair's shot.

A minute later though, Harrison controlled in the area and found room to fire in a low shot that flew low past Ripley.

Lee Erwin forced a very smart low save from Joe Lumley as Athletic tried to force an equaliser, but a second game in three days proved too much for the visitors.