Ryan Watson scored the only goal of a scrappy game that, particularly in the second half, was low on quality and entertainment.
But all that matters to the Cobblers at the current time is getting points on the board, and they deservedly did that against a Shrews side that lacked any attacking threat.
The win was the Cobblers' fourth in their past five home games, and sees them rise to 19th in Sky Bet League One, three points above the relegation zone.
It was more or less the perfect day with regards to results, as all the other teams in the bottom seven lost, with the exception of Burton Albion who drew 0-0 at Accrington Stanley.
Here are our ratings from Town's huge win over Shrewsbury...
5. Joseph Mills
Didn't have too much impact on the game in an attacking sense, but defended well. One great block in the second half... 7
6. Bryn Morris
Worked hard in the middle of midfield, and tried to keep things moving. Dug in to help protect the lead late on... 6
7. Shaun McWilliams
Nobody works harder for the cause than McWilliams. Ran himself into the ground again. Just needs to calm down in possession... 7
8. Ryan Watson
Not for the first time, was the Cobblers' most potent attacking threat and topped an all-action display with a lovely goal... STAR MAN 7.5