Tranmere are on the brink of a trip to Wembley after a memorable night in Hampshire that saw Micky Mellon’s side smash Aldershot 3-0 in the play-off semi-final first leg.
Aldershot were the form side in the National League coming in to the play-offs, but an early goal from Cole Stockton put Tranmere on course for an outstanding first-leg advantage.
A great following of Rovers fans roared the team on despite being largely uncovered in the torrential rain.
The night got off to a flying start, with Stockton collecting Jeff Hughes’ cut-back from the left, turning and firing under the Shots keeper.
Aldershot rallied, but Rovers held firm and dominated much of possession. They led 1-0 going in to the break.
The second half started as the first had. A cross from the left by Liam Ridehalgh presented an easy catch for Jake Cole in the Aldershot goal, but the keeper dropped the ball as he fell back, giving a stunned James Norwood an open goal to tap the ball home.
From that point on, Tranmere were in complete and utter control. McNulty was a rock at the back, while Norwood, Stockton and Jennings were dangerous on the break.
Stockton grabbed his second and surely confirmed a place at Wembley converting after a square ball from Norwood as another Rovers break caught the home side out.
It was a long but joyful journey back for the SWA. Surely, Wembley beckons.
