MORECAMBE'S inconsistent season continued with a bore draw against struggling Hednesford on Saturday.

The visiting pitmen, who have had nearly as many managers (three) as they have had league victories (four) this term, defended resolutely to grab a point.

As so often happens, Hednesford seemed to receive a boost from the arrival in midweek on new manager Colin Lambert.

Morecambe created several chances, with emerging winger Colin Hunter coming closest, blasting a shot against the woodwork in the first half.

Strikers John Norman (against his former club) and recent signing Robbie Talbot had been scoring for fun in recent weeks but, along with FA cup hero Mark Quayle, they had a rare off day in front of goal.

When they did break through, former Walsall and Blackpool keeper Mark Gayle was in top form, doing more than most to dent Morecambe's goalscoring hopes.

At the other end, Morecambe's Mark Smith had to be at his most lively to save two good chances from Stuart Lake.

The victory leaves Morecambe in a mediocre 16th place in the league, although they have more games to play than any other club in the division. The Shrimps, who have allowed striker Julian Dowe to leave, will face Hereford United at Christie Park as they bid for a place in the quarter final of the FA Trophy, after the bulls defeated Leigh RMI in a replay.

Manchester United's second string are in town today (Thursday). The side is set to include fringe first team players and some potential stars of the future for the game against Blackburn Rovers reserves.

Kick off is 7.45pm and are priced at just £3 for adults and £1 for children. Resolute

Pitmen

stifle Shrimps