Nicking points will be crucial

Sep 22 2007 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

LAST week I suggested that how we fared against Luton with the pressure of top spot at stake may provide a clue to our long-term prospects this season.

I’m pleased to say that the omens are looking good and for 19 hours at least we sat at the top of the table until Orient reclaimed the lead with an impressive win at Yeovil.

While the display was workman-like rather than spectacular, the manner of the victory, with another late show, certainly gives cause for optimism.

It’s a fact that most of the teams who have gained promotion in recent years have had the knack of snatching points at the death.

Rovers always kept probing and pressing during the second half but Luton will have left Prenton Park thinking they had been mugged having played their part in a compelling 90 minutes.

Ronnie Moore will feel rightly pleased that his two substitutions proved the turning point just when it looked as if it may not be our night although with Craig Curran in the form he is in at the moment you have to feel confident when he enters the fray.

There are many supporters who are calling for the youngster to be given a starting berth and that will no doubt come, but for the time being I believe he is being introduced to the first team in exactly the right manner.

With pace to spare and no lost causes when it comes to anything that looks over-hit he is a handful for tiring defenders to deal with and his impact value will be a valuable asset.

Last Friday’s result demonstrated the spirit and self belief among Rovers players and it was great watching their celebrations when the final whistle blew.

More of the same at Cheltenham this afternoon please.