Lairds target Trophy run

Cammell Laird’s manager Tony Sullivan is hoping his side can extend their unbeaten run of four games when they travel to Belper Town in the FA Trophy on Saturday, writes Phillip Wilkinson.

Sullivan has no doubt securing a result is well within his team’s capabilities. The Evo-Stik NPL First Division North Lairds have surprised commentators in recent weeks by picking up wins on their travels at Kendal Town, Radcliffe Borough and AFC Farsley as well as earning a point in their last outing at Bamber Bridge on Tuesday night.

Sullivan is looking for his Birkenhead side to build on those results by going on a much needed cup run in the Trophy and said: "We know it will be tough as we are the away side but we have proved at Kendal and at Farsley what this squad is capable of and we will go there hopeful of winning the match."

In the previous round, Laird’s drew 0-0 with Kendal Town at home before going away to the Cosyseal Stadium and taking a much deserved 2-0 victory, goals from Aiden Houghton and a Jamie Henders penalty securing Laird's place in the FA Trophy's Second Qualifying Round.

Laird’s opponents Belper are likely to prove to be tough opponents. The Evo-Stik NPL First Division South side have only tasted defeat once in their last eight games in all competitions and on Tuesday night won 2-1 away at Newcastle Town.

Sullivan will be without the services of skipper John Riley who is expected to be out until at least February with a cruciate ligament injury leaving Chay Dysart to continue as captain. Joe Feeney, calf, and Lewis McNally, ankle, are also expected to miss the FA Trophy trip to Derbyshire.