Lairds prove too strong

Oct 17 2007 by Our Correspondent, Birkenhead News

Cammell Laird2

Stocksbridge1

DESPITE being down to 10 men for most of the second period, Cammell Lairds proved to be too strong for the Steels side in a tough UniBond League Division One South encounter at Kirklands.

Laird had the better of the first half with Alex Hay unlucky not to steer home a Eddie Jebb cross.

Shortly after Steels’ keeper Andrew Jefferey did well to block a Jebb shot.

The hosts took a deserved lead midway through the first half when Ian Cooke rose above the defence to make it four goals in four for him.

The second goal for Lairds came from the spot after Jefferey impeded Joey Gibiliru in the box, Alex Hay converting.

But the second half was a closer affair, in part due to the dismissal of Gibiliru for a second yellow following a seemingly innocuous challenge on James Vardy.

This gave hope for Steels supporters who were buoyed when Mark Ward pulled clear in front of goal and made no mistake.

As is often the case at Kirklands, it was false hope for the visitors as the Laird’s back four held strong.

This Friday, Lairds entertain old adversaries Alsager Town in the second round of the UniBond Presidents Cup at 7.45pm.

Lairds are offering £3 admission for anyone who turns up wearing a Rovers shirt or scarf.