Tony Cottee’s 32nd-minute strike helped Everton end a run of three defeats to leave out of touch Oldham still seeking their first home win of the season. Oldham was still seeking their first home win found the early going tough against Everton at Boundary Park. Everton looked increasingly dangerous and took the lead in the 32nd minute.
A cross from Paul Rideout was flicked on by John Ebbrell and Cottee, just six yards out stabbed the ball past Gerrard for his fourth goal of the season. Oldham fought hard to get back into the game but in the 43rd minute, Nick Henry shot tamely straight at Southall and seconds before the break Andy Ritchie put a close-range effort over the bar. Oldham battled hard but was left cursing missed chances from Ritchie, Neil Mcdonald, Richard Jobson, Craig Fleming and Nick Henry.