Rovers came into Tuesday night’s game on the back of three straight defeats; not ideal form with which to welcome the team that comprehensively defeated them on Boxing Day
The first half started with Tranmere on top, dominating in both possession and chances created. Jonathan Mitchell produced a fine save to deny Regan Hendry, turning his first-time shot onto the post, and later saw a Kane Hemmings shot dip narrowly wide. Meanwhile Charlie Larkin, making his first start since signing for Doncaster, managed to pick up a booking for a foul he didn’t commit which was amusing too say the least.
In the second half the hosts started brighter, coinciding with the introduction of Joseph Olowu for the injured Tommy Rowe who had been playing in the centre of a back three. The first goal came on 62 minutes from Rovers first meaningful attack; Ben Close collected a clearance on the edge of the box, shifted into space, and his shot was deflected into the net over the stranded Tranmere keeper Mateusz Hewelt.
The second goal wasn’t far from coming; arriving just two minutes after the first to be exact. Lakin stole the ball high up the pitch and fed Kyle Hurst with a fine through ball and Hurst slotted home with ease from 15 yards.
Rovers saw the game out comfortably despite the need for a couple more Mitchell saves, including a speculative effort from Jake Burton that was tipped onto the bar.
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