Salford wrap up bright victory over Tranmere

Ossama Ashley’s curling finish capped a 3-1 victory for Salford against Tranmere.

The hosts began brightly and came close to opening the scoring after five minutes when Kallum Cesay’s volley drew Joe Murphy into a diving save.

Haji Mnoga struck a fierce drive over the bar before Cole Stockton headed over from close range as Salford laid siege to the Tranmere goal.

Tranmere forward Charlie Whitaker forced Mark Howard into a sharp save with his feet as the away side gained a foothold before half-time.

After Cesay had been fouled in the box, Luke Garbutt sent Murphy the wrong way from the penalty spot to give Salford a deserved 56th-minute lead.

Omari Patrick finished off a lightning-fast break to draw Tranmere level after 65 minutes, but missed an opportunity to gain the lead when he blazed wide.

Tranmere paid for their wastefulness when debutant Daniel Udoh headed the ball down for Stockton to score after 81 minutes.

Ashley wrapped up victory for the hosts five minutes later as he curled home a third.