In front of another fantastic crowd of 1,518, the Mariners were given a stern test by a dogged Brig side who came into the game having won both of their opening two league games. However, Robbie Briggs’ effort five minutes before half-time proved decisive, and came after Gavin Cogdon had seen a penalty saved.
The win boosts Shields ahead of a clash with new second-placed side Scarborough Athletic tomorrow in front of what should be another massive crowd.
Boro claimed a 4-0 win at Clitheroe with goals from Nathan Valentine after 11 minutes and then again on 67 minutes, sandwiched by efforts from Michael Coulson on 22 minutes and Max Wright three minutes later.
The other sides yet to taste defeat in 2017-18 are newly-promoted Atherton Collieries, Mossley AFC, Colwyn Bay, Ramsbottom United and Hyde United.
The Colls inflicted a third successive defeat on Ossett Albion at home, courtesy of goals from Kristian Holt after just three minutes and Darryl Mason just past the hour-mark.
Mossley drew for the second time, 1-1 at Seel Park against Trafford, whose Scott Sephton cancelled out Adam Latham`s 55th minute opener five minutes later.
Bay shared a 0-0 draw at Llanelian Road with Colne, and Rammy drew 1-1 at Ewen Fields with Hyde where both goals came in the final five minutes – Karl Jones giving the Tigers the lead and Tolani Omotola equalising.
Prescot Cables, Skelmersdale United and Kendal Town enjoyed first wins, with the former being successful at Tadcaster Albion with goals from Lloyd Dean after 62 minutes and Dominic Marie seven minutes later – Jason Mycoe netting a late consolation.
Skem were 2-0 Stormy Corner victors over Glossop North End – the Hillmen`s first defeat - recent signing Remy Howarth after 12 minutes and Andy Owens 13 minutes from time Skem`s marksmen.
Kendal won 3-1 at Stainton Park against pointless Radcliffe Borough, who led through Theo Brierley`s ninth minute opener until the 65th minute when Rob Bowman equalised. Matty Clarke and John-Paul Stanway won it for the Mintcakes in the final 10 minutes.
Elsewhere, Droyslden secured a win by the same scoreline at Ingfield against Ossett Town with Dominic Smith giving the Bloods an early sixth minute lead.
Alex Peterson equalised after 21 minutes but Ciaran Kilheeney on 80 and Scott Metcalfe on 89 minutes sealed the visitors` win.
Goole AFC are the third side yet to record a point as they went down 3-0 at the Victoria Pleasure Grounds to Brighouse Town, whose Aaron Martin bagged a brace and Tom Haigh the other – all in the second period.
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