Swindon frustrated Tranmere as they extended their unbeaten league run to seven games with a narrow win at Prenton Park.

The crucial goal came five minutes after half-time, skipper Andy Gurney netting with a tremendous free-kick from the edge of the box after Sam Parkin had been fouled by Graham Allen.

Tranmere wasted earlier chances and Matty Heywood fired wide with a terrific opportunity for the visitors in the 39th minute.

Parkin had a goal disallowed for a foul shortly afterwards and Swindon goalkeeper Bart Griemink made a superb reaction save to deny Simon Haworth in first-half injury time.

Tranmere sent on Jason Price as an extra striker for the last half hour but Swindon reigned supreme at the back with five-star displays from Gurney, Heywood and Alan Reeves.

Tranmere: Achterberg, Allen, Roberts, Sharps, Nicholson, Mellon, Taylor, Connelly, Hume, Haworth, Jones. Subs: Price, Howarth, Hinds, Hay, Harrison.

Swindon: Griemink, Marney, Heywood, Reeves, Duke, Gurney, Hewlett, Miglioranzi, Robinson, Parkin, Invincibile. Subs: Farr, Edds, Ifil, Sabin, Taylor.

Referee: E Ilderton (Tyne & Wear)