LEE Elam took jut four minutes to make himself a Shrimps hero with a superb goal that broke the resolve of hard-working Halifax Town.

Morecambe won 2 - 0 over Halifax.

The former Southport winger didn't come off the bench until the second half but managed an impressive brace to claim Morecambe's first victory of the season.

Elam's first goal, on 57 minutes, came when he picked the ball up wide on the left and cut inside, dancing past two defenders before unleashing a curling left foot shot which left keeper Lee Butler with no chance.

Morecambe had had the better of the game before then, but were struggling to finish some good passing football.

Garry Thompson and his partner up front, Wayne Curtis, both had opportunities but Thompson's attempted lob went over the goal and Curtis waiting too long for the ball to come down when presented with a clear sight of goal just after half time.

Halifax flattered to deceive.

Winger's Ryan Mallon and, in particular, Ian Fitzpatrick always looked menacing, but were unable to find any end product, although Steve Kerrigan should have done better with at least one of his headers.

After Elam's first goal, the young winger dominated the game with his pace and trickery.

He nearly scored a mirror image goal on 78 minutes, cutting in from the right and curling another excellent shot, which Butler had to get down well to save.

Halifax introduced Elam's former Southport teammate, Simon Parke, to a chorus of boos from the home supporters, but he was kept in check by Morecambe's formidable back three of Iain Swan, Keith Hill and Dave McKearney.

Just to prove it was his night, Elam scored a second on 85 minutes, again showing good skills to control a Michael Knowles cross before again outwitting two defenders and finishing from close range.

Morecambe almost managed to let Halifax back into the game when a careless backpass from Hill gave Mallon a clear run at goal.

His first shot was blocked and a second attempt, this time a lob, beat Craig Mawson but was well blocked on the line.

Saturday's action saw Morecambe claim a good draw at Margate's temporary home in Dover.

Andy Gouck opened the scoring but Margate equalised through Sam Sodje.

This weekend sees title favourites Yeovil come to town in what is expected to be the stiffest test yet of Morecambe's play-off ambitions.

Bank Holiday Monday sees Jim Harvey take his side to Hereford.

Shrimps fans can enjoy future matches in style with a new 'match and meal' ticket being offered by the club.

For just £25, fans can enjoy a three-course pre match meal, a seat in the stand and a complimentary programme.

To take advantage of the opportunity, contact the commercial office on 411797 at least 48 hours before the game.