Come the end of the game, Steve Davies looked completely wiped out. However, the winger had just completed his first 90 minutes in competative football after six months out and he did put in a strong performance. Things can only get better from here for the winger, and lets hope he signs a new contract soon!

Shaun Garnett's side now created a number of chances, with Gornell hitting another shot wide from close range before Steve Davies expertly hit a free-kick from 30-yards towards the goalkeepers' bottom right-hand corner, only for the 'keeper to dive across and save the shot.

The referee seemed reluctant to give Tranmere many decisions though, whilst a number of "questionable" offsides went against Terry Gornell.

Carlisle did have their chances though, and it was bemusing to players and spectators how the ball did not force it's way into the goal on one occasion, when a corner was not cleared and the second Carlisle shot bounced through the Tranmere defence, almost in slow motion, before bouncing to safety off the post.

Davies hit another free-kick well over the bar for Tranmere before the visiters grabbed an undeserved winner three minutes from time.

A corner came in from the Carlisle right and a towering Danny Carlton was allowed to rise unchallanged and send a powerful header into the top corner.

Tranmere rallied in the last three minutes, plus the five minutes additional time, but in the end they just couldn't hit the back of the net.

Shaun Garnett's best chance fell to Steve Davies, as the winger powered his way through the defence, and with help of a lucky bounce, broke into the area on the right-hand side before curling a shot just wide of the far post.

However, the game ended in a 1-0 defeat for Tranmere, meaning in eleven home reserve league games this season, the second string have picked up just two wins.

For Tranmere, Tom Beahon was the man of the match. The midfielder put in a performance not unlike that of Steve Jennings for the first team, bursting forward to join the attack on occasions whilst also breaking up plenty of attacks from the opposition at the other end.

Steve Davies put in a good shift for Tranmere, although, understandably, by the end of the 90 minutes the youngster was very tired. However, he did show he still has what it takes to be a good player, but more match fitness is surely required before he makes a first team appearance.

Danny Holmes was solid in defence, winning key tackles all night, whilst Terry Gornell created plenty upfront, although he couldn't test the 'keeper with his efforts.

John Mullin was weak, often losing possession in key areas at both ends of the field, whilst Mike Jones tried hard and created some chances, although he took a touch too many on a number of occasions.