Copnell lands blow on Lairds

Oct 29 2007 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

LAIRDS limped back over the Snake Pass after being beaten by the world’s oldest football club for the second time in a few weeks in the UniBond League Division South.

Whilst it wasn't the 4-0 drubbing of last time, this 1-0 reverse was just as painful with the news that leaders Retford United had lost heavily at home, meaning that the Birkenhead men’s opportunity of elevating themselves to the top of the league went begging.

An exiting first period saw Sheffield’s Tom Jones glance a header wide while at the other end Greg Stones was unlucky with a long-range shot.

The hosts took the lead shortly before half time when Stewart Copnell found space to strike home.

The second period was all Lairds, buoyed on with Sheffield having Miles Thorpe sent off for a second yellow.

Some frantic attacking play produced close calls for Alex Hay, Chris Nezianya and promising youngster Jason Ward, but eventually time ran out - but lessons have been learned against a strong side.

Lairds: Whitfield, Sheehan, Lynch, Collins, Atherton, Brookes, Jebb, G Jones, Stones, Hay, Wright, Subs: Nezianya, J.Ward, S.Jones