Fans galvanised Shrewsbury Town's players – Paul Hurst

The Montgomery Waters Meadow was rocking as Town went to the top of League One after six games, with Stefan Payne's first-half finish enough to send the former Premier League side home empty handed.

Town went all hands to the pump to keep out a late Wigan bombardment, but the visitors – who had sub Ryan Colclough sent off after the final whistle for dissent – were able to create very few clear-cut chances.

A crowd of almost 7,000, boosted by 1,400 away fans, had home fans singing about Town's top of the table status and gave roaring encouragement to Hurst's men, who are continuing carve out their fairytale.

Hurst said: "I think think the fans being like that gets you involved, doesn't it?

"You can't help it, it's hard not to. You do get carried in with that. I was trying to stay calm on the side. You want to conduct yourselves in the correct manner.

"They gave a great feeling. A lot of noise I tried to block out, just trying to focus on the game, but at times it gets your attention – it's one of those days where, as much as I'm enjoying being a manager and it's going well at the minute, I want to step out on the pitch and get involved.

"The time that I did I got sent off (Bristol Rovers last season) – so I'd better not do that!

"Everyone that's been today gone home in a really good mood."

Town have won five and drawn one from their opening six clashes ahead of Southend's visit tomorrow night. They remain in their highest league position since 1989.

"Towards the end of the first-half there was a little bit of an edge to the game, a couple of decisions and the crowd got involved, it helps having that something to protect," Hurst added.

"It galvanises the team even more. It's days like today that you want to be involved in and thankfully for us we've come out on the right side of the result.

"It's one of those days I'm sure as a fan you want to be involved in, and I'm sure the ones that turned up are pleased that they did."