BIRKENHEAD PARK will be looking for a return to winning ways this Saturday when Middlesbrough are the visitors to the Upper Park.

Park’s early season momentum has been lost with two successive defeats following the excellent Cheshire Cup victory over Caldy two weeks ago.

Following the shock National Trophy exit at the hands of Newark last week, Hull proved too strong on the day as Park failed to open their account for the first time this season. Dave Hall still heads the North One points table with 68 points just seven ahead of Westoe’s Sam Rasch.

The big plus on Saturday was the surprise return to the starting line-up of influential second row Dave Blyth, who hopefully will not suffer any adverse reaction to his injury. Park coach Shaun Gallagher said: “Dave’s return was a definite bonus and we are all hoping he will be able to play a full part from now on.

“We have lost ground over the last week or so but I know we have the character to bounce back starting this week with Middlesbrough.

“It is only our third home match of the season but if we are to be realistic promotion contenders then this is a game we must win, Boro ran Sheffield Tigers very close last week so we know it will be another stern test.”

NEXT GAME: Birkenhead Park Middlesbrough, North One, Saturday November 1