Barrow AFC boss Mark Cooper has called for an end to the team’s “false dawns”.

The Bluebirds take on high-flying Tranmere Rovers today buoyed by the midweek win at Northampton Town.

The result at the Sixfields Stadium was a shot in the arm for Barrow.

But manager Cooper said Barrow have too often before failed to build on a good result.

Whilst acknowledging the difficulty of today’s test at Holker Street, he said that has to change.

“Of course you get that bit of confidence [from a result like Tuesday’s], but it only lasts until the whistle goes in the next game.

“We have to kick on now. We’ve had too many false dawns, so we have to take that confidence into this game and try and get back-to-back results.”

Cooper’s side take on a second-placed Tranmere who are four points clear of the play-off places and in a strong position for a return to League One.

Micky Mellon’s side got the better of Barrow on Boxing Day, and have lost just once in 12 games in the league.

AFC start the day ten points above the relegation zone and another positive outing at the Dunes Hotel Stadium (kick-off 3pm) would further strengthen their survival prospects.

“It’s a tough game against a top team in this division, with good players and a good manager,” Cooper said.

“I think when Micky Mellon came back to the club in the summer, straight away you thought they were going to be in the shake-up.

“It’s a big club and they should, rightly so, be signing the best players at this level.

“Put those ingredients together and you have a chance. They’re doing really well.

“It’s going to be a tough game but I’m sure they’re expecting a tough game as well.”

While Barrow have picked up points on the road recently, with wins at Colchester United and Northampton, their home form has been found wanting with back-to-back defeats last week to Mansfield Town and Salford City.

The Bluebirds have not won in four league games on home soil and Cooper added: “We’ve got to start giving our fans something to shout about at home. That will be the aim this weekend.

“It’s a big challenge and we’re looking forward to it. You’ve got to look forward to the big games: a big crowd at Holker Street, good atmosphere – it’s what it’s all about.”