Venue: Prenton Park, Birkenhead.
Attendance: 5011
Result: Tranmere 2-0 Crawley
Goalscorers: Amoo (30), Bakayogo (39)
A coach full of Crawley Town fans (and a Oxford fan, don't ask) set off from the Broadfield Stadium at 7.30am all hoping for a good result following recently inconsistent away performances. Tranmere Rovers, top of the league, were the opponents. Special mention here must go to my mum who got up at 6.30 on her day off to take me to the stadium.
 |
| Reception |
After a five hour journey, the coach arrived at Prenton Park at 12.45pm and immediately the fans headed to the Prenton Park Hotel for pre-match drinks. Some fans opted for fish and chips before the game and headed towards Georgio's where you can purchase a bag of chips for just £1! As the players' coach arrived, myself and a few others were greeted by a Tranmere Rovers director, He welcomed us to the stadium, which I thought was very unusual and a pleasant surprise.
I entered the stadium at around 2.20pm and as I entered onto the concourse, was in awe at the large Kop at the opposite end of the ground, housing the home faithful. Soon, 3pm had descended on Birkenhead and both sets of supporters were eagerly anticipating the clash of two teams vying for a top half finish. Tranmere have surprised many critics this season and their fans were hoping for a 4th straight win following a successful Christmas period. I could only describe the first 10 or so minutes as dreadful; few chances and a irritating spell of 'hoof ball'. The encounter was fairly equal, Crawley attacking, then Tranmere attacking. Tranmere began to take control and soon, ensuing a good break, Andy Robinson crossed the ball into the box towards new signing David Amoo who, after confusion in the box, tapped in to give Rovers' the lead. New signing Amoo, nabbed from Preston after his release from the Lancashire side. Reds fans started to get behind the team and they weren't phased by the first goal. Billy Clarke struck the post after being put through by Gary Alexander. 2 minutes later Tranmere broke again. Zoumana Bakayogo's cross dipped over Paul Jones, struck the upright and bounced in off Jones' back. The Kop went wild in celebration. Reds' fans were clearly angered by one certain individuals performance.
 |
| The Kop |
As the second half began, fans began to feel there was still a chance for a comeback, Crawley having shown resilience from losing positions against Stevenage and Portsmouth in recent weeks. Crawley started to dominate and battled hard to gain something from the match, but often Tranmere's solid defence came out on top. Chances went begging and in another attempt to draw level, Richie Barker substituted joint top scorer Nicky Adams for striker Lateef Elford-Alliyu. This was a brave move from a manager who has many critics. New signing Matt Sparrow also joined in the action, replacing work horse Dannie Bulman.
It wasn't to be for the Reds' but it is clear why Tranmere are top of nPower League One. Crawley's attack just could not penetrate the outstanding defence of the league leaders and every Tranmere fan can start to believe that this could be their season. If they can continue to gain points from the teams around them then they a certainties for promotion. Although the result was not in favour of Crawley Town, it was another exciting away day and I would like to thank the people of Birkenhead for making us feel so welcome.
 |
| Myself in front of the Main Stand |
The coach journey back could only be described as mental. It was hard to believe that Crawley had just experienced defeat; Gangnam Style at the back of the coach, Ross' excessive farting, belting out Wonderwall as we headed down the M6 and the chants of 'PAULO DI CANIOOO' and 'SWINDON SWINDON' towards Georgia the Oxford fan. Georgia was delighted by the news of Oxford's 2-1 victory at Bradford, however we often made it known to her that they currently find themselves in League Two, so all arguments became invalid. It is honestly a pleasure to know such a great set of lads.
Follow these fantastic people on Twitter:
@CTFCMITCH
@CTFCDan89
@BradClark97
@Callumm01
@paulthedom
@georgia_tagg
@JakeEmery123
@CTFCross
No comments:
Post a Comment