Chance to test side’s preparations

Aug 2 2008 by Nick Hilton, Liverpool Daily Post

TRANMERE may well use today’s friendly encounter with Blackpool at Prenton Park as a dress rehearsal before the Coca-Cola League One season kicks off next weekend.

The visit of the Championship side from the Lancashire coast provides manager Ronnie Moore with a chance to test his squad’s preparations for the opening League One fixture at Swindon Town on Saturday, August 9.

New signing Charlie Barnett will be given for the chance to show the Prenton Park regulars why his bright performances in the friendlies of the past three weeks earned him a one-year contract.

Barnett, 19, a former FA Youth Cup winner with Liverpool has Moore purring: “I think Charlie is going to be a little gem.”

The Blackpool game also provides home supporters with a first opportunity to look at new arrival Godwin Antwi.

The Ghana-born defender, 20, has been signed on a six-month loan from Liverpool and had his first taste of action at right back in the 2-1 win at Morecambe last weekend.

Admission to Prenton Park for today’s game is £7 for adults in most areas of the ground and £3 for juniors, young persons/senior citizens.