NAME: Matthew Jones
FROM: Heswall on the Wirral
CLUB: Tranmere Rovers
How long have you been supporting Tranmere?
Since I was four, so coming up to 13 years
Who would you consider your main rivals, and why?
There are a few. Local rivals include Liverpool and Everton (probably because of jealousy) and then of Chester and Wrexham who are also quite local. We also dislike Bolton (also known as Notlob!) because we were both challenging in the play-offs at the same time, stopped them becoming the first team to the 100 point barrier on the last day of the season and stopped them getting to the League Cup final in the 1999/2000 season. Incidentally, January 26th is the day we beat them 3-0 in the Worthington Cup Semi-Finals to reach the final.
Best game of the season so far?
We haven't played well throughout a whole game yet really and I'd say that opening ten against you was the best performance so far. But the best win for me was the 1-0 win away at Brighton, simply for the journey I and the rest of the fans had to make but it was all worth it.
Worst game of the season so far?
Bristol City away (our last away game) on 13th January. We were 2-0 up at half-time and bottled it 3-2. Don't think I've ever been so angry at a Tranmere match!
Who's your star player?
Hmm…tough one. I would say Greenacre but he's been ill lately so possibly Ian Goodison, if he plays (had a leg injury). Been incredibly good all season, great tackler and really cool. Now our captain. You may remember him for getting booked (lucky not to get sent off) at your place last season and cost us the goal you scored late on.
Whose name makes you groan when you hear they're on the teamsheet?
Probably Calvin Zola as I don't think he's much use and I'd like to see young Craig Curran given a go up front.
Any promising youngsters to look out for?
The aforementioned Craig Curran, if he plays, has scored 11 in 12 for the reserves this season from midfield and upfront but as of yet has only made on appearance for the first team this season away at Bristol City as a sub. Steve Davies is also very useful on the left-wing.
If money was no object, which League One player would you sign?
Andy Robinson from Swansea as we could really do with a good winger at the moment. Between him and Commons anyway!
Are you happy with your current manager? Why?
Yes, very. Last season we were poor under Little, finished 18th which was our worst position for seasons. Ronnie has come in, signed 9 players and got us playing some good football. I think we would go up but we lack a decent winger and the squad is just too thin.
Describe your team in three words.
Inconsistent, gets tired
Finally, your score prediction for the match.
Gillingham 3-1 Tranmere. We've scored in 14 consecutive league games (GTAT- That bodes well with our defensive record….) so I think we'll get a goal but your home form has been good and we aint been great of late!
Likely Tranmere starting XI
Hart, Sherriff, Goodison, McCready, Stockdale, Shuker, McLaren, Mullin, Davies, Zola, Taylor
