TRANMERE were reduced to 10 men for more than an hour of their Puma Youth Alliance derby with Chester City after Connor Roberts was dismissed for a tackle.
Even so, a young Rovers side were competitive throughout.
Tranmere, a goal down after 15 minutes, battled back when Alex Pursehouse did well down the left to sweep in a cross for Tom Baker to finish from 12 yards.
The home fell behind on 70 minutes to a cross shot that left goalkeeper Joe Collister unsighted.
Head of youth Kenny Shiels was encouraged. He said: “We kept possession and defended well at times. Playing with 10 men was a good learning experience.”
Tranmere host Wigan Athletic at Raby in an Alliance fixture on Saturday, kick-off 11am Rovers meet Farsley Celtic in the FA Cup, first round at Prenton Park next Tuesday, kick-off 7:30pm. Admission is £3 for adults and £2 for concessions.
