Tranmere boss: How we 'adapted' to defeat Carlisle United
Tranmere Rovers boss Nigel Adkins was delighted with the way his side denied Carlisle United space to play in their 1-0 win over the Cumbrians.
The Wirral side moved seven points clear of Mike Williamson’s strugglers following their victory at Prenton Park.
While rock-bottom United’s relegation woes increased, Tranmere’s fears of the drop were eased somewhat by only a second win in nine League Two games.
Adkins said he adapted his team’s shape to respond to Carlisle’s expected style and he felt his players rose to the challenge.
“We knew because they [would aim to have] loads of possession, they’d leave themselves open to the counter attack. At times it was on and it was exciting,” Adkins said.
“[In the second half] there were a couple of good blocks [from our defenders], one good save from the goalkeeper but likewise we thought we’d have a threat going forward.
“We more or less went man for man across the pitch. They’ve got good technical players if you give them time and space but we adapted.
“Luke McGee’s had one save to make – it was a very good one – but the team worked so hard for each other.
“We adapted our formation – you could see they are a high possession-based side, and we wanted to get after them and press them.
“The work rate of the players was phenomenal, and the supporters got right behind the players all through the game.”
Tranmere's former United man Omari Patrick, left, closes down Harrison Biggins (Image: Richard Parkes)
Cameron Norman’s first-half goal proved the difference as Carlisle floundered in their attempt to come back into the contest.
“Sometimes the first goal changes the complexion of a game,” added Adkins in a club interview.
“The work-rate, adaptability with the shape, the magnitude of the game, the support for the players was brilliant – and it’s a good afternoon.”
Adkins praised a “great save” by United’s Gabe Breeze to prevent Harvey Saunders scoring a second for Tranmere.
He went on to speak of his hope that fifth-bottom Tranmere can make significant improvement in the second half of the 2024/25 campaign.
“There’s half the season to go. You’ve seen the spirit of the players and supporters, everyone working together to try and get the club moving in the right direction,” he added.
“Our fans were magnificent today. As they always are. They’re passionate, they care about the club and the players gave them something to shout about.”
