Tranmere v Northampton preview

Rovers seek home comforts against Cobblers

Last updated: 29th August 2008

tranmere rovers ronnie moore

Moore: Slow start

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Tranmere play host to a Northampton side who will be looking to build on their Carling Cup heroics.

Rovers have suffered a slow start to the season, with a solitary victory all they have managed to take from their opening three fixtures.

Northampton have fared slightly better, but it is their cup success over Premier League side Bolton which signals them out as dangerous opponents.

Antwi struggling

Tranmere boss Ronnie Moore will check on the fitness of defender Godwin Antwi ahead of a visit from the Cobblers.

The on-loan Liverpool youngster is nursing an ankle injury which could keep him on the sidelines.

But striker Ian Moore is available for selection after being laid low by a virus which forced him to miss last weekend's defeat at Leicester.

Rovers have no other concerns as they seek to capitalise on the first of three home games inside eight days.

After hosting Northampton they face Accrington in the first round of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy on Tuesday before Oldham visit Prenton Park next weekend.

Manager Moore said: "We want to keep our 100% home record for as long as possible."

Crowe doubt

Northampton manager Stuart Gray is waiting on the fitness of wing-back Jason Crowe before naming his squad to travel to Prenton Park.

Gray's side completed a famous 2-1 win at Bolton on Tuesday but Crowe suffered a badly-bruised foot which has swollen up.

A decision will be made on his fitness near to kick-off while hero Adebayo Akinfenwa should continue his starting role up front.

Akinfenwa hit a brace at the Reebok, but despite still carrying 12 stitches in his head and suffering with a knee injury will again lead the line after a specialist gave him the all-clear on Wednesday.

Goalkeeper Mark Bunn is on the verge of joining Blackburn and looks to have played his last game for the Cobblers.

Leon Constantine (thigh) is back in training and could be involved while Colin Larkin (also thigh) may return as well.