SKIPPER John Welsh is backing manager Les Parry’s conviction that fans can play a significant role in shaping Tranmere’s fortunes over the second half of the season.

The pair believe positive support from the stands can help push Rovers up the League One table and clear of the relegation places.

Tranmere started the New Year by taking a big, noisy following to Rochdale, where they were beaten 3-2, and a crowd of more than 5,000 witnessed the bank holiday win over Carlisle United at Prenton Park.

Welsh said: “I know we have not had a good run of results lately but the fans have really got behind us and we appreciate that.

“At Rochdale they were tremendous. Against Carlisle they had to bite their nails but in the end we got the three points for them. We’ve got to push on from here and the fans can help us.”

The win over Carlisle halted a run of three defeats and left Tranmere three points above the drop zone on 25 points. They aim to build on that safety cushion with a home game against bottom club Walsall on Saturday.

Parry said: “I keep reiterating about the importance of the fans. In the Carlisle game they were a little bit quiet at first but our performance did not help to gee them up. But they were terrific later on. Even when Carlisle equalised I could hear the fans on the Kop still singing, which was fantastic. They definitely played their part.

“The supporters will be important on Saturday because there will probably be a smaller crowd. So it is important to those who go are more vocal.”

Those supporters who turn up on Saturday can expect to see at least one new face in the Rovers line-up. Parry expects to complete the signing of a goalkeeper this week to see Tranmere through the remainder of the campaign.