Here's how Pool's players rated:
7. Matty Virtue - 5/10
Conceded possession for Tranmeres second goal and brought off at half time after almost being sent off.
8. Connor Ronan - 7/10
Outbattled in the first half but came to life in the second. Inches away from equalising with a long-range shot onto the post.
9. MAN OF THE MATCH: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall - 7/10
Scored his third goal in four games with another long-range thunderbolt. Ran the show in the second half.
10. Nathan Delfouneso - 5/10
Endured a frustrating evening. Grazed the top of the crossbar with a header but ran into too many blind alleys.
11. Joe Nuttall - 5/10
Squandered a couple of early opportunities to score and hold-up play was poor. Brought off at half time.
12. SUB: Jay Spearing - 7/10
Matty Virtue, 46'
Brought some much-needed experience to Pools midfield as he calmed things down and kept things simple.