A hard-fought game at Plainmoor was settled by a single goal from the home side, fifteen minutes from time.
New signing Luke Guttridge was handed his second Northampton debut as Aidy Boothroyd continues his quest to find the side that can move Town away from the foot of the Football League.
Three points now separate the Cobblers from safety after a win for Dagenham & Redbridge over Rotherham United.
Boss Boothroyd said afterwards: "I will take a lot of positives from the game, we created chances and played very well against a very good team.
"The performances are getting better all the time but we need to get results and thankfully good performances lead to results."