WHEN his side gives their all during a match, Tranmere manager John Aldridge has the upmost praise for his players' effort - but when they throw in a lifeless display, letting a two goal lead slip to draw with lowly Oxford United, he can't hide his anger.

"I thought we learned our lesson against Sheffield United, but the Oxford game showed we haven't," said Mr Aldridge.

"We haven't got the players who have the determination to hold on to leads and it hurts me. We threw it away at Watford (on Easter Saturday) and at home to Oxford. The fans booed us off the field and I don't blame them at all. The lads lacked effort and I won't have that. We have pride at stake. If they want to carry on like that, they won't be in my team."

Rovers suffered a disappointing Easter period of games letting the lead slip to lose 2-1 at Watford on Saturday despite a David Kelly goal, and travel to Oakwell to face Barnsley this Saturday with Mr Aldridge looking for a much improved display.

Barnsley will prove tough opposition after their FA Cup exploits, reaching the quarter-final stage before losing 1-0 to a fantastic David Ginola goal.

Rovers then travel to face Norwich City on Saturday week (April 17) before welcoming Port Vale to Prenton Park on April 24.

There is still no sign of an end to owner Peter Johnson's protracted sale of the club.

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