How Tranmere Rovers warmed-up for the Papa John's Trophy final against Sunderland at Wembley

Tranmere Rovers boss Keith Hill is looking forward to a ‘special weekend’ at Wembley – after the League Two side warmed-up for their clash with Sunderland with victory at Southend.
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Goals from Paul Lewis and George Ray handed Tranmere victory against the struggling Shrimpers on Tuesday evening as they continue their fine form of late.

The Prenton Park outfit have lost just one of their last six games in League Two with that sole defeat coming last Saturday against Crawley Town.

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And Hill was delighted with how his side bounced back ahead of the Papa John’s Trophy final – particularly given the likes of the experienced David Nugent were rested for the game.

How Tranmere warmed-up for their final with SunderlandHow Tranmere warmed-up for their final with Sunderland
How Tranmere warmed-up for their final with Sunderland

“For them to bounce back after Saturday was great,” said Hill, speaking to the Press Association.

“I’m not a bad manager because we lost one game and the players aren’t bad players because they lost one game.

“But it’s sensationalised on forums and on Twitter. This was a great performance and a great three points.

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“If we had performed like that and been beaten I would still have gone home happy. But we haven’t been beaten because of the desire.

“I’m so pleased for the players and they shouldn’t be getting any stick when we get beaten occasionally.

“Of course this was an important game but in the grand scheme of things it was just another game really.

“We’ve won tonight and we’re at Wembley at the weekend so we won’t be playing when the other League Two sides are.

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“But it’s going to be a special weekend when we’re representing Tranmere and the supporters “

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