CARETAKER manager Les Parry took satisfaction from an FA Cup examination that showed his Tranmere team have a strong backbone after all.

The long-serving physio admitted that when Tranmere conceded an early goal to first-round visitors Leyton Orient, he was worried they might buckle in the same way they did in a 4-1 defeat to Swindon Town a week before.

But this time the re-jigged line-up showed strength and resilience, dominated the remainder of the contest and deserved more than the 1-1 draw secured by Chris Shuker’s 51st-minute equaliser.

Tranmere must now prepare for a replay at Brisbane Road, probably a week tomorrow, with the winners facing a home tie with Aldershot on Saturday November 28.

Parry said: “Coming from behind to get a draw was the most pleasing thing about the game. Last week we went behind and capitulated, which was disappointing. Over the early part of the season we had a bit of a record of just folding when we went a goal behind.

“But after we went one down we dominated the first half and the lads acquitted themselves brilliantly in the second. We got the equaliser and we had chances to go into the lead.”

Parry, who is backed up by coaches Shaun Garnett and Wayne Allison, has now completed a full month and five games in charge of team affairs since the dismissal of John Barnes on October 9.

Speculation mounted over the weekend that the appointment of a long-term successor to Barnes is imminent. The latest names being linked to the post belong to managers with a solid background in the lower divisions. Men who are familiar working within tight budgets, such as Bury’s Alan Knill and Keith Hill of Rochdale.

In the meantime Parry says he will keep on working until relieved of responsibility by chairman Peter Johnson – with a League One trip to Norwich City next on the agenda.

Parry said: “When you look at the five games we have been in charge, I think people will agree we have had four outstanding performances – much improved on what went before – with one blip, the Swindon game, in between.

“It is going to be difficult, but if we maintain that form and work-rate, I think we will come away with something from Norwich.”

Parry reckoned Tranmere were denied a “stonewall” penalty when striker Michael Ricketts was pushed in the box during the first half. But he added: “You have to put those things aside and get on with the game.”

The selection reshuffles saw team captain Ian Thomas-Moore and experienced midfielder Paul McLaren left out of the side. Parry said: “When I told Ian I was leaving him out he said he realised he was struggling for a bit of form and Paul McLaren said exactly the same. They were both men about it.”

He added: “Ash is going to be a good player. He attacks the ball which is good and is brave. He gets caught in possession but that’s going to happen with a young lad in defence.

“Hopefully Ian Goodison will be able to nurse Ash through. Ian Goodison isn’t necessarily the best defender for a young player to be alongside because he does not do much talking. But he leads by example, so Ash can watch what Ian does.”