TRANMERE'S long search for an away win will extend to another week after a narrow defeat at Walsall but manager Nigel Adkins remains upbeat.

Rovers, who lost 1-0, stay 21st, six points above danger, after their winless away run was stretched to 17 games.

They suffered a first defeat since Adkins was made permanent boss as Walsall keeper Jackson Smith foiled Kristian Dennis and Kieron Morris, who also missed two other big chances.

“The shape and game plan was working great first half – we had four or five really good chances,” said Adkins.

“At half-time we could have been 4-0 up – you’ve got to take your chances.

“That was the first time for a long time that we’ve not scored but we’ve created again.

“We kept going and could have got something at the end – it’s disappointing we haven’t got at least a clean sheet, disappointing we haven’t got the three points.

“We are up against it but we are having a go – and I think that’s an important thing. Slowly but surely there is a consistency about ourselves and on another day we could have scored four or five goals today.

“There were a few oohs and ahhs today – ultimately we didn’t get the result but I’m certainly seeing a performance from players who are grafting, working hard.”

Tranmere face Salford City on Saturday at Prenton Park with Adkins confident his squad can return to winning ways.

"We're going to need everybody," he added. "But I'm seeing an organisation about ourselves and I'm seeing an alignment and collaboration with the supporters which is important."