What a difference there is our in fortunes all of a sudden. First of all there was the hard fought and unexpected win at Hartlepool, then the superb second half performance to finish off Doncaster, then the total and clinical demolition of Huddersfield. The Saddlers will be brimming with confidence as they set out to the home of the plastic Scousers, Tranmere Rovers. The trouble is, they are a team in form and lead the Division into the game. This is going to be a true test of our credentials in this League.

The signs are that Richard Money will be keeping the same side for the game, which comes as no surprise. It’s not just the quality of the last two performances, especially, but also the fact that we are a little short in places. Darren Wrack is still a week or so away from fitness, Paul Boertien four or more and long term victims Carneiro and Picken show no sign of showing up yet. On top of that, Martin Butler looks to have played his last game for the club, unless there is a massive change in attitudes all around and Ian Roper seems to be struggling to find any form for the reserves.

That gives a starting XI of:

Ince, Weston, Dann, Gerrard, Fox, Sonko, Mattis, Dobson, Bradley, Demontagnac and Mooney.

The bench is a little more problematical, but Bossu, Roper, Deeney, Hall, McDermott and Taundry will all be looking to be involved, so pick any five.

Tranmere Manager Ronnie Moore will be missing striker Chris Greenacre, in all probability, as he has been suffering form a virus and wasn’t fit for their last league game, the win at Southend. Moore played a 4 5 1 in that game and said that he might well keep that as his first choice formation, so the midfield is likely to get a bit crowded!

Other names that will be familiar to the older Saddlers are former loanee Chris Shuker, former Forest striker Gareth Taylor, man mountain Calvin Zola and experienced defenders Robbie Stockdale (ex Middlesbrough) and Ben Chorley (M K Dongles).

Predictions?

Rovers go into this one in first place. However, they have won 2, drawn 2 and lost 1 at home, while winning three and drawing two away from home. Their weaker home record must mean that we have a chance, but it has to be remembered that four wins on the bounce (or even three wins and a draw) isn’t something that’s achieved very often. I’d be very happy with a point.