Parry calls for return to days of cup glory

Nov 7 2009 Liverpool Echo

LES PARRY wants Tranmere to evoke the cup fighting spirit of the club’s past when they set out on the road to Wembley this afternoon.

Rovers’ reputation at the start of the decade was built around punching above their weight in knockout competitions. And they sent a clutch of heavyweight clubs crashing.

The same cannot be said of the teams of more recent years – but caretaker boss Parry warns that to change that.

The FA Cup first round encounter with Leyton Orient at Prenton Park this afternoon is hardly a David and Goliath affair as both clubs lie in the bottom half of League One.

But progress can bring Tranmere closer to the third round arena where glory days as well as big paydays can be found.

“This would be a great season to have a cup run,” Parry said.

“We are noted for our cup exploits here and that has not happened for a number of years. I think to get a cup run you need to be a team that is willing to scrap and fight for each other. We have done that in the past and I hope we will be doing it again – starting against Orient.”

The long serving physio completed a month in temporary charge of team affairs this week and says he is “delighted” he wasn’t relieved of command after last Saturday’s home defeat to Swindon Town.

The 4-1 setback represented the first time Parry and coaches Shaun Garnett and Wayne Allison felt let down by the performance of the team.

He explained: “After the defeat last week I was dreading not being in charge for Orient because when I do step aside, I want it to be after a victory.

“I’m proud. I want us to win the game before a new manager comes in.”

Parry also wants to see a much improved performance from the side. He said: “The lads realised they could have done better than they did last week. Even those who did decently know there are areas where they can improve.”

Parry says he has no more idea than anyone about who long-term successor to John Barnes might be – and when he will be appointed. “I’m going to do the job until I’m told not to do the job,” Parry said. “I don’t worry about things I have no control over.”

Tranmere could be without defensive strongman Ian Goodison. The Jamaican centre-back is a “major doubt” because of the stiff neck that kept him out of training during the week.

Parry could face further disruption to the defence if right back Shaleum Logan cannot shake off a groin strain.

If Goodison fails to recover in time, Rovers may turn to raw but talented prospect Ash Taylor at the heart of the back four.

Taylor, an 18-year-old who graduated through Tranmere’s youth development system to secure a first professional contract last summer, has already made close to a dozen first team appearances.

Parry has confidence in the youngster’s potential. He said: “Ash has been playing centre-back for the reserves and doing well. What he lacks in experience and know-how he makes up for in enthusiasm and bravery and height.”

Orient’s line-up looks sure to include Ben Chorley. The 27-year-old centre-back spent two successful seasons at Prenton Park before moving back to his native London in the summer.

“I think I was the only at our club who was pleased when we came out of the hat with Tranmere,” Chorley said.

“I had a good rapport with the fans and the people there, but I want nothing but an Orient victory.

“I’m really looking forward to going back, especially if Les (Parry) is still in charge. I got on especially well with Les and he helped me a lot.”