Max has the power to see off Daggers
MICKY Adams says seeing his side produce a fully-focused defensive display was more pleasing than watching Max Power’s wonder strike find the top corner at Victoria Road.
It was Tranmere’s first clean sheet in the league since their 1-0 win at home to Bristol early in November and Adams believes the improved concentration levels could be vital.
Dagenham started brightly but struggled to break down a stubborn Tranmere backline.
That would prove to be the story of the match and Rovers were given their reward for a gritty display when Power’s 74th minute effort from the edge of the box found the top corner.
“One decent move puts Max Power in and he hits a screamer. But he is capable, he’s a top player at this level,” said Adams.
“Max should have that confidence as well. He’s got the attributes that you need to achieve things to win the game.
“I’m more pleased with the clean sheet, you always have to be on your toes when you’re playing against the type of strikers that Dagenham have, they are a handful.
“But defensively we were solid, our keeper has had no saves to make so that shows how good a performance it has really been.
“I’m delighted with the back five because while we have been competitive in games, a little lack of concentration has cost us from time to time, but out there they were fully focused.”
After a strong opening from the hosts Rovers found their rhythm and probed on the counter – Steven Jennings seeing his volley blocked before Danny Holmes tested Mark Cousins with a leftfooted effort.
Rovers thought they had taken the lead on 54 minutes when Shamir Fenelon tapped the ball into the net – only to be ruled offside. Tranmere were looking dangerous on the break and they forced Cousins into action again when Kayode Odejayi’s header was beaten away.
But the stopper couldn’t do anything to prevent Power’s effort breaking the deadlock. Jamie Cureton had the chance to level shortly after but his strike from inside the area went straight at keeper Owain Fon Williams and Dagenham first team coach Darren Currie admitted he was frustrated by his side’s display.
“It is frustrating, we have looked a real goal threat in the last two games and then here we didn’t move the ball with any urgency or make the pitch big when we had the ball,” he said.
“It is certainly a missed opportunity for us because we haven’t imposed ourselves on the game.”