JOHN ALDRIDGE experienced one of his most difficult nights as Tranmere player-manager last night when Liverpool's third club exited the FA Cup third round at the hands of Carlisle. To compound Aldridge's disappointment, the former Republic of Ireland international was also sent-off.
Tranmere went behind in the 30th minute to a goal from Owen Archdeacon, who fired home Lee Peacock's cross. That was the game's only score and Aldridge was red-carded for serious foul play in the 78th minute.
In other third round matches last night, high-flying Wimbledon escaped from a tricky away fixture at Crewe. Wimbledon went behind to an Ashley Westwood goal but Chris Perry salvaged a draw and a return meeting at Selhurst Park.
Barnsley, second in Division One, lived up to their current status with a 2-0 win over Graham Sharpe's struggling Oldham.
A number of postponements and an abandonment were other features of last night's fare. Derby's visit to Gillingham fell foul of the freezing weather after 66 minutes and was abandoned while still scoreless.
