Tranmere vs. Shrewsbury – Relegation Six Pointer Might Turn Ugly For The Loser

The final stretch of the league through April and May is where the teams at the foot of the table really begin to earn their wages. The ability to string together a few victories in these crucial months could make all the difference when it comes to the final positions. And consistency is something which these two teams have struggled with all seasons. Picking up wins here and there, but unable to string together the kind of streak which so often leads to safety, neither Tranmere nor Shrewsbury will be sleeping easy for the time being. Indeed, victory for the away side here will lift them above their opponents into the table and completely change the complexion of the chase for safety. Following the resolution of Ronnie Moore’s issue with the FA, Shrewsbury might see this as an opportunity to capitalise. With two teams desperate for points, neither can really afford a draw.

Currently sitting in nineteenth position, Tranmere Rovers are currently the better placed of the two teams going into the weekend. The side will be hoping to build on last week’s win over Colchester and get back to back victories for the first time in a long while. Both of their previous victories, however, have been followed by two losses and a draw: the home side’s inability to put together results could be exactly the kind of issue which sees them tumble further down the division.

Shrewsbury are coming into the game fresh from a victory over Stevenage. With a similar record of only three wins in their last ten, however, things are not looking good for the team which currently occupies the twenty second position in the league. All hope is not lost, however, with the possibility of a few victories allowing them to climb up the table. With so many teams struggling for points, this could be the opportunity not only to rise up the table themselves, but to get above their opponents with only a few games to go.

Injuries

Injuries continue to be a problem for Tranmere, with captain James Wallace a doubt after being struck down with a groin strain. Winger Abdulai Bell-Baggie will definitely be out of the game and could be set to miss the remainder of the campaign. Jason Koumas could return to the squad to make a difference, as could Steve Jennings.

Perhaps the bigger issue, however, is the recent sacking of manager Ronnie Moore after having been embroiled in a contractual issue. While the case remains very much in contention, the manager has been suspended since February, until finally leaving the club after admitting to the FA’s charge. It is unknown what the effect on the team’s morale will be now that the issue has been dealt with.

Shrewsbury will be hoping for the return of Jermaine Grandison following a hamstring injury. Joeseph Mills - on loan from Burnley - will continue to serve his ban, imposed on him following his red card in a previous match. With several players having returned from injury in recent weeks, nursing them all back to match fitness may be vital.

Form & Line-Ups

Tranmere Rovers

P40 W11 D10 L19

WLLDW

Predicted Line-Up: Williams; Pennington, Taylor, Arthurworry Ridehalgh; Koumas, Power, Jennings, Akpa Akpro; Cassidy, Lowe.

Shrewsbury

P41 W09 D14 L18

LWDLW

Predicted Line-Up: Weale; Iorfa, Goldson, Mkandawire, Jacobson; Taylor, Wildig, Hall, Parry; Eaves, Atajic.

Prediction: Tranmere 1 - 2 Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury might well be able to edge this battle, though neither team will be out of the relegation scrape. An away victory might be on the cards following the manager’s dismissal mid-week.