Shrewsbury Town player ratings: Who starred as Salop returned to winning ways

Sam Stubbs’ powered home in the second half to send Salop 11 points clear of the League Two relegation zone.

Here are our player ratings:

Matt Cox

Largely untested before the break, but produced crucial second-half saves when called upon, showing composure and sharp reflexes to help secure an important clean sheet.

Commanding: 8

Sam Stubbs

Rose superbly to head home the decisive goal and defended with courage throughout, putting his body on the line in a determined, no-nonsense display.

Heroic: 9

Will Boyle

Endured a few nervy moments early on but grew into the game, organising the defence well and helping limit Tranmere to very few clear-cut opportunities.

Resolute: 7

Josh Ruffels

Defended diligently and made smart decisions under pressure, capped by a vital goal-line clearance in the second half that preserved Shrewsbury’s slender advantage.

Dependable: 8

Ismael Kabia

A lively attacking outlet, delivering a superb early pass for Ihionvien and consistently threatening down the right, using pace and creativity to carve out chances.

Dangerous: 8

Temple Ojinnaka

On his first start under Cowan, he battled tirelessly in midfield, pressing aggressively, regaining possession, and earning deserved applause for an energetic, disciplined display.

Industrious: 8

Nick Freeman

Put himself about in midfield with important tackles and tenacity, competing well for loose balls and nearly adding a goal with a wayward effort after the break.

Combative: 7

Kevin Berkoe

Offered a constant outlet on the left, linking play effectively and delivering the crucial cross that led to the winning goal with intelligent attacking movement.

Influential: 8

Iwan Morgan

Operated just behind the strikers, dropping deep to dictate play and launching long throws to create pressure, showing awareness and a willingness to orchestrate attacks.

Creative: 7

John Marquis

Led the line with determination, holding the ball up well and bringing others into play, stretching the defence despite limited chances in front of goal himself.

Selfless: 7

Bradley Ihionvien

A constant threat on his return, forcing strong saves and troubling defenders with direct running, showing sharpness and intent after a long spell out through injury.

Encouraging: 7

Subs: Taylor Perry (for Ihionvien, 74): N/A, Sam Clucas (for Ojinnaka, 80): N/A, George Lloyd (for Morgan, 90): N/A.

Not used: Brook, Anderson, Gray, Scully.