IN less than a week, Tranmere Rovers have scored nine goals, picked up six points and jumped into the top half of the Nationwide League Division Two - and are now only four points off the top three clubs!

In that same week, striker Stuart Barlow, who seven days earlier couldn't hit a barn door, scored six goals to make him the Division's leading goal scorer.

Tranmere manager Dave Watson said: "I think it's a little bit of luck along the way."

Saying that, Rovers made their own luck against Wrexham on Friday night with a delightful performance in midfield and defence. The victory came on the back of a 4-2 home success three days earlier against Notts County. Barlow, 3, and Jason Koumas got the goals.

"The clean sheet was very important to give the lads a bit of confidence because we have been leaking goals," said Watson.

There was no questioning Rovers' prowess in attack on Friday.

Two away games this week will test Rovers' consistency to the limit. Last night (Tuesday) Tranmere faced Bristol City away. This Saturday they are again on the road to play Chesterfield at Saltergate (kick-off 3pm).

Wayne Allison trained on Monday after limping off against Wrexham, but Paul Rideout's come-back was further delayed by a thigh injury.