'The Beast' struck either side of half-time to take his summer tally to four in three games.
North End boss Alan Irvine named a strong side, although skipper Paul McKenna was a notable absentee as he closes in on a move to Nottingham Forest.
Teenager Terry Gornell grabbed Tranmere's goal but John Barnes' first game in charge at Prenton Park ended in defeat.
Source: Team_Talk