Mellon takes positives after Tranmere held by Southport

Posted Monday, December 03, 2018 by PA

Tranmere manager Micky Mellon took the positives from his side’s performance as they were held to a 1-1 draw in the FA Cup second round by National League North side Southport.

Bradley Bauress’ strike from 30 yards into the top right corner earned Liam Watson’s Southport side a place in Monday’s third round draw following a spirited performance on the Wirral.

Tranmere substitute Jonny Smith, who replaced Dylan Mottly-Henry early on in the first half, opened the scoring for Mellon’s League Two side with a left-footed shot from the right side of the penalty area which beat visiting goalkeeper Dan Hanford.

In a feisty Merseyside contest, Southport were buoyant following their leveller and saw Jack Sampson’s header from a corner cleared off the line.

Mellon reflected on Tranmere’s performance and admitted his side must learn from where they went wrong.

Mellon said: “We can take the positives from today, we’ve got a game in between the replay so we’ll get the lads back in and rebooted to go again.

“It was a tough game, we needed to defend well, they had a big presence up front with the big striker, so they made it very difficult for us all day. It was difficult to get out, but we’ll learn from it and move on.

“Obviously you want to go through first time but we’re still in it.

“It was a good cup battle, we are pleased we are in the hat, that’s the main thing. But credit to Southport, they made it hard for us.

“You have to dig in, there were throw-ins coming into the six yard box and then we had to fight for the knockdowns. Every free-kick was coming in and they had a big presence up front as well so we had to compete with that, we know he have to be better and we’ll work on it.”

Southport boss Watson is hoping for a big Premier League club in the next round if his men can win the replay at Haig Avenue.

Watson said: “I’ve just said to the players, the worst thing about getting the draw is you go in the draw. If it’s Everton great, Manchester United, Manchester City, any of the big boys.

“Once we got the equaliser, I thought there was only one team who would go on and win it. It wasn’t to be but I’m very proud of my players.

“I think the goal came against the run of play, we weren’t under pressure.

“The fans got behind us unbelievably well and they deserve today, it’s great.

“We put them under pressure but Tranmere defended really well.”