Friday 3rd May 1974
The final match of the season was played at Plymouth Argyle. With the Latics needing a draw to win the Third Division championship a large contingent of travelling supporters made the long journey to watch the game. Athletic did not disappoint as they held on for a 0-0 result. Maurice Whittle became a hero that night for kicking a goal bound effort off the line. Athletic had done it and they returned back to the Second Division after a break of 20 years.