LACK OF INSPIRATION

TRANMERE Rovers suffered a 1-0 defeat to Wigan Athletic as they concluded their preseason, returning to Prenton Park for the first time since sealing their League Two status for the 2025/26 season against Crewe Alexandra in April.

- By OWEN LINNETT

The visitors took the lead in the 17th minute through Malta international, James Carragher, who rose highest to meet Fraser Murray's pinpoint cross at Joe Murphy's back post and powerfully headed the ball downwards into the bottom left corner.

Wigan dominated the rest of the first half with 66% possession, restricting the home side from registering a single shot.

In fact, keeper Sam Tickle remained unchallenged for the whole 90-minute period with Rovers struggling to create a single effort towards his goal.

Although Andy Crosby would have wanted to see a more exciting performance from his side, Prenton Park was certainly up for the occasion, with fans cheering every tackle from the very start.

Latics' boss, Ryan Lowe made six changes on the hour mark, including the substitution of former Tranmere striker Paul Mullin, who received a yellow card earlier on in the game for his persistent fouling of Richie Smallwood.