Tranmere Rovers v Brackley: FA Cup predictions, free betting tips & TV details

Free football tips, best bets and analysis for Tranmere Rovers v Brackley Town in the FA Cup second round on Friday.

Where to watch

BBC 2, 7.55pm Friday

Best bet

Tranmere -1 on Asian handicap
1pt 22-25 Betway

Team news

Tranmere
Stefan Payne (groin) is out long-term but Liam Ridehalgh returned to the bench on Tuesday.

Brackley
Midfielder Glenn Walker was injured earlier in the season and was absent last Saturday as Brackley drew 1-1 at Chester.

Match preview

This season's FA Cup first round produced plenty of shocks, with ten of the 23 ties between EFL and non league clubs going the way of the lower-ranked teams, but punters should back League Two Tranmere to see off National League North Brackley at Prenton Park.

A joint-record number of 14 non league clubs are competing in the second round.

Given the financial hardships wrought by Covid-19, it is reassuring to see the depth of quality in non-league ranks, but Brackley manager Kevin Wilkin will be under no illusions over the size of the task facing his team.

Wilkin's side are 18th in the National League North and have to bridge a gap of two divisions and 56 league places against Tranmere, who are pushing for promotion to League One.

The Saints have scored just seven league goals this season and are hoping for a return to form for star striker Lee Ndlovu, who has netted once in seven league appearances.

Last season Ndlovu finished second in National League North's scoring charts with 20 goals and he is probably Brackley's best hope of troubling a Tranmere defence which has locked rock-solid in recent weeks.

Tranmere were unbeaten in five matches under caretaker-manager Ian Dawes and are off to a strong start under new permanent boss Keith Hill following last Saturday's 1-0 victory at home to highflying Carlisle.

Their squad looks equipped to sustain a serious promotion challenge and it should give them a decisive advantage over Brackley in the battle to earn a place in the prestigious third round draw.

Key stat

Tranmere have won five of their last six matches.

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