 Tranmere were one kick away from the final but Liam O'Brien's sudden death penalty was saved by Mark Bosnich and they eventually lost 5–4.A reconstructed Prenton Park was opened in March 1995, with the all seater stadium now holding just under 17,000 supporters.One year later, John Aldridge was appointed player/manager and held that position for five years; he retired from playing in 1999.