Shots stand firm

Tranmere could not break through a defiant Aldershot rearguard in a full-blooded FA Cup tie at Prenton Park.

League Two side hold higher division outfit in FA Cup clash

Tranmere could not break through a defiant Aldershot rearguard in a full-blooded FA Cup tie at Prenton Park. Rovers dominated for much of the time but the Shots held firm to ensure a replay back at the Recreation Ground. But there was a remarkable escape for Kevin Dillon's side after 20 minutes when a John Welsh shot for Tranmere saw the ball hit the right post, rebound onto the left post and then onto the keeper's legs before it was scrambled to safety. At the other end a 20-yard strike by Anthony Straker was deflected inches wide. But Rovers remained on top and Ash Taylor saw a header held on the line by keeper Mikhael Jaimez-Ruiz. The Merseysiders continued to call the tune after half-time but Craig Curran found the side netting, Taylor blasted over and Jaimez-Ruiz saved well from Terry Gornell. Luke Daniels was a spectator in the home goal for much of the second period, when the only shot for the visitors, by Louis Soares after 76 minutes, was blocked.