Tranmere Rovers took a huge step toward League Two safety with a 2-0 win over Cheltenham Town on Friday night, easing the pressure in their relegation battle.
Goals in either half from Kristian Dennis and Cameron Norman earned Andy Crosby’s men a valuable three points at Prenton Park, extending their cushion above the drop zone to nine points.
It was a high-energy start under the Friday night lights, with Rovers looking sharp from the off. Kristian Dennis was an early threat and eventually gave the hosts a deserved lead with a firm header from a Josh Hawkes corner midway through the first half.
Strong First Half Foundation
Tranmere dominated the opening 45 minutes, creating several dangerous moments through the likes of Omari Patrick and Regan Hendry. Cheltenham offered little going forward, with Timothee Dieng heading over their best chance of the half.
The second half saw the home side continue to control proceedings. Finley, Hendry and Lee O’Connor combined well in midfield, with Dennis again going close with a low drive that tested Joe Day.
Despite a flurry of Cheltenham substitutions, the visitors couldn’t break down a resolute Rovers defence. And with the game in stoppage time, Cameron Norman chased down a loose ball before surging into the box and calmly slotting past Day to put the result beyond doubt.
The full-time whistle sparked scenes of celebration as Tranmere banked a second clean sheet in as many home games and added breathing room between themselves and the bottom two. The gap is now nine points, with both Carlisle and Morecambe having a game in hand.
However, the bottom two play each other in a fortnight; on the same weekend, Rovers travel to fellow strugglers Accrington Stanley. It’s an advantage for Tranmere in the battle to avoid a drop into the National League.
Writer’s view
It’s the kind of performance that defines a season. Tranmere weren’t just solid—they were confident, fluid and aggressive at both ends of the pitch. The chemistry between Hendry, Finley and Patrick is blossoming at just the right time, and Dennis continues to deliver when it matters most. Norman’s late goal was the icing on the cake of a well-earned win that gives Rovers control over their own destiny.
