Tranmere youngsters try to adopt John Barnes’s style in opening day win over Blackpool

Aug 20 2009 by Nick Hilton, Liverpool Daily Post

TRANMERE’S under-18s made a positive start to the Youth Alliance campaign with a merited win over Blackpool.

Jack Mackreth put Tranmere ahead on 32 minutes, running onto through pass from Jay Gibbs. Then Gibbs struck home a sweet half-volley to make it 2-0 on 70 minutes.

The home side endured a nervous finale after a sloppy goal cut their advantage in the 85th minute but held on to claim the points.

Coach Shaun Garnett said: “The lads are trying to play the same system that manager John Barnes has introduced in the first-team. They played some excellent football at times and there were a few teething problems as well.”

TRANMERE play host to Port Vale at Raby Vale on Saturday at 11am.