Collins' sympathy with beaten Tranmere

John Collins expressed his sympathy with Tranmere's plight after the Fulham trounced them 4-1 at Prenton Park to go 17 points clear at the top of Division One.  

The Cottagers are now in touching distance of the Premiership after another slick display.

Louis Saha capped a fine performace with a double strike, Barry Hayles and Lee Clark also scored to complete the rout. Simon Osborn netted a last-minute consolation for the hosts.

"We got off to a fine start with the early goal, but you've got to give Tranmere credit. They kept going and made it hard for us at times," said the Fulham assistant boss.

"We have set high standards from the very first game of the season and the whole team played well tonight.

"Tranmere put us under pressure at the start of the second half, but fortunately we did not concede.

"You've got to feel sorry for Tranmere, but fingers crossed, they'll get enough points to stay up. We would certainly like to see them stay in Division One."