Cup of promise
Friday 7th November, 2009
By Richard Ault

Tranmere entertain Leyton Orient on Saturday in the FA Cup, hopeful that victory may be the springboard needed to turn the season around.

Despite a feeling that an appointment would have been made this week, Tranmere are still under the guidance of caretaker manager Les Parry and assistant Shaun Garnett. The rumour mill suggests Rochdale’s Keith Hill or ex-Rovers boss Ray Mathias are most likely candidates, although ex-Wigan and Bradford boss Paul Jewell has also been heavily linked.

All that must now wait until next week though, the priority now is to ensure Rovers have at least one competition to look forward to this season, and give themselves a chance of gaining some significant income.

Rovers’ recent round-one history

Tranmere won through in the FA Cup first round last season, although they did need a replay to finally get passed Accrington Stanley in a game broadcast live on Setanta.

Rovers have entered the competition at the first round stage every year since 2001/02 season, going through every time with the exception of 2003 (Cardiff), 2005 (Peterborough) and 2006 (Bradford City).

Chopper returns

One interesting side issue to tomorrow’s game is Ben Chorley’s return to Prenton Park. This centre back was a popular figure at the club and, despite having an inconsistent first season, he was outstanding for much of the 2008/09 season. He was a key part of the squad that did so well on limited resources, and was ultimately dismantled in the summer.

Team news

Rovers have a doubt over Ian Goodison who is struggling with a neck injury. Everyone else should be fit with the exception of long-term casualty Bas Savage.