Morley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8pts, New Brighton . . . . . . . . . 16pts

NEW Brighton made it three victories on the trot with victory at Morley in Jewsons National League Two, on Saturday, but were disappointed with the modest scoreline.

"The last time New Brighton played Morley in 1987 we lost by 70 points," said coach Lawrie Connor. "Perhaps the lads' disappointment in an eight point victory is a measure of just how far we have come in recent years."

New Brighton were below par and perhaps should have run in more points, but an away win in Yorkshire sustained their unbeaten record and bagged the points for the Wirral club, keeping the Reeds Lane men top of the table.

New Brighton started well and good forward pressure featuring Allot and Gallagher laid the foundations of a power play that saw Hodgers score in the opening stages (0-5). Brett failed to convert.

Brett then came into the game and increased the Blues lead with a penalty and, minutes later, crossed to round off a fine team move. Although he failed with the conversion, the Blues had a 0-13 lead.

The complexion of the game changed when Allot left the field with a rib injury sustained in the scoring move. Turley came on and gave a good account of himself, but New Brighton never functioned in quite the same way.

Morley hit back with a try from full-back Hall to make the half-time score 5-13.

The second-half never really got going and in a 'stop start' sort of game, Brett managed another penalty for the Blues and Morley responded with a late consolation penalty from Grehson.

Nick Allot's rib injury is of serious concern to the Reeds Lane club. His presence at the centre of the pack is a key feature of their game. With promotion contenders Stourbridge coming to Reeds Lane on Saturday, September 25, the Blues' back room team will be anxious to get the big man back to full fitness for this crucial clash.

Said Blues Chairman of selectors Tony Atherton: "I'm very happy with the way the season has started. We have a strong squad, but are still looking to strengthen in key areas. This is a marathon, not a sprint, and I am confident we will be in the frame at the end."

On Saturday, New Brighton travel to face Selley Oak in the Tetley Bitter Cup. Fans should contact the club on 677-2442 for travel details.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.