Byrom leaves Southport

Aug 18 2007 Liverpool Daily Post

SOUTHPORT have suffered a blow with the news that striker Joel Byrom has decided to return to Clitheroe.

The 20-year-old joined the Sandgrounders on non-contract terms from the UniBond North One outfit last week and made a real impact at Haig Avenue.

He scored on his league debut in last Saturday’s 3-0 win over Gainsborough Trinity and was on target again in Tuesday’s 3-2 win at Workington.

Port manager Peter Davenport was hoping he would put pen to paper on a permanent deal but they have failed to agree terms.

Davenport said: “I cannot really understand Joel’s reluctance to step up to our level.

“However, he must realise I will be looking to strengthen quickly and I cannot wait around at this important time.”

The Sandgrounders head for struggling Alfreton Town today keen to extend their perfect start in Blue Square North.

Alfreton finished 14th last season and have yet to pick up a point having lost 2-0 at Blyth Spartans and 3-1 at home to Nuneaton.

Davenport is hoping to welcome back star striker Tony Gray after he missed the midweek triumph at Workington with a thigh strain.