Superb Sonko inspires Rovers

English League One side, Tranmere Rovers, got their season up and running with a 1-0 home victory over Hartlepool United at Prenton Park on Saturday.

Craig Curran netted the winner midway through the first half and Tranmere kept their first clean sheet with Edrissa Sonko playing a pivotal role in the first win of the season.

The Gambian wizard-winger had a great pre-season and must have been miffed at missing out on the first selection of the campaign but he has grasped his opportunity with both hands and looks certain to be a key player this season. Sonko had the first shot of the game with a 25 yard strike which forced visiting keeper Arran Lee Barratt into a save.

The sprightly winger looked lively as Rovers made a positive start to the game with O'Callaghan also forcing Lee Barratt into a save after breaking free from midfield. Tranmere had started to dominate the game and the pressure told as Curran swept home after more good work from Sonko.

The young striker finished smartly from outside the box with a low shot into the left corner for his first goal of the season. The second half was barely a minute old when Sonko’s pace saw him get on the end of a cross but he was unable to force it past Lee Barratt who smothered the chance. 

As Rovers continued to dominate O'Callaghan blasted over before Curran thought he had his second of the game. Rovers number 25 converted a tremendous Taylor cross only to see his effort chalked off as the linesman had his flag up. 

The ever-lively Sonko raced 60 yards after combining with O'Callaghan to unleash a stinging shot which forced Lee-Barratt into another good save.