by Eric Munn

WHILE Lorraine Rogers hits the headlines as she searches for an investor wanting to take over the club (full story, see Page 8), the Tranmere team will be focusing on Saturday's crucial Nationwide League Division Two visit to Prenton Park of Queens Park Rangers (kick-off 3pm).

Recent form has shown that Tranmere put up their best performances against top teams and with QPR in the last play-off position, Rovers will be eager to take three points - and strengthen their own claim to take part in the end-of-season knock-out, the winner of which gains the last available promotion spot.

Tranmere know they must start winning games if they are going to reach a precious top six position, but injuries are still causing trouble.

Ray Mathias once again faces a headache due to the team's lack of healthy centre backs. After an excellent run of performances on his month-long loan, Michael Jackson has been recalled to Preston. Kevin Gray also remains unavailable for selection due to the slow progress of his pelvic problem.

A clumsy tackle by Bristol City's Christian Roberts has also left a question mark over Sean Connelly's availability. Connelly missed training at the beginning of the week due to a knee twinge.

Mathias has said that reaching the play-off positions will be difficult, but he remains optimistic. Rovers, after Saturday's 1-1 draw at home to Bristol City, are seven points adrift of the elusive sixth place, but have a game in hand.

"Players are getting on the end of chances, but unfortunately they've not been going in, whether they be from penalties or set pieces," said Mathias. "But luck changes and hopefully they'll start going in for us."

Simon Haworth netted Rovers' equaliser against Bristol City.