Tranmere’s 10-man show of confidence

Mar 1 2008 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

TRANMERE extended their unbeaten run to eight last Saturday at Bristol Rovers and despite having to play half the game with 10 men came within an ace of taking all three points.

The composed second-half performance spoke volumes for the confidence that is now running through the side.

Hopefully that confidence will ensure that Steve Jennings’ absence is not felt as hard as that of Ian Goodison when he was suspended at the start of the year.

Given the referee had already been liberal with his yellow cards the midfielder’s rash challenge was certainly asking for trouble and while Ronnie Moore felt the red card was harsh he is wisely avoiding the risk of an appeal.

Rovers have already been on the rough end of FA justice when Ian Goodison’s suspension was extended because of our “frivolous” appeal and in the light of the disciplinary commission’s decision in respect of Jeremie Aliadiere this week it is clear that the disciplinary process is a sham.

When you consider Javier Mascherano’s conduct was considered acceptable in last weekend’s incident at Anfield or William Gallas can avoid sanction for a deliberate off-the-ball kick at an opponent, is it any wonder that the feeling exists that there is one law for the big four and one law for the rest.

Jennings has been Rovers’ player of the season so far and his suspension could not have come at a worse time with today’s game against Doncaster the first of three tough fixtures with visits to Oldham and Swansea to follow.

However John Mullin now has the chance to stake a claim for a regular first-team spot and if he can find the form he showed in the opening months of last season, Jenno will have a fight on his hands to reclaim his place.