Alex Morris was encouraged by elements of his side's performance against Tranmere Rovers in the Papa John's Trophy.

The Railwaymen were edged 1-0 by the visitors, and as a consequence cannot progress further in the competition.

But the Manager says parts of the display were positive, as he begins to prepare his men for the visit of Doncaster Rovers on Saturday.

Morris said: "Losing the game and not being able to progress in the competition is disappointing and frustrating.

"But if you assess the performance, there is lots to be positive about, especially between 50-75 minutes when we produced some really good football.

"We counted eight really good opportunities to score in that period.  

"The game is full of fine margins, that’s not a sob story it’s just facts. We were the better team leading up to their goal – the first half was quite balanced – but we weren’t able to take our opportunities.

"They had chances to extend their lead but that was because we were chasing the game, and we ran out of legs and spark as they brought on some of their more established players.

"The people at the top end of the pitch have to be far more clinical, but we have to judge things on how it looks performance-wise, as well as scorelines.

"We will have scorelines go against us, but as long as there is evidence of progression and improvement, then we will be happy. It takes patience and time."