Stalham 2, Kirkley & Pakefield Reserves 0STALHAM Town were inspired by captain Steve Ellis to a great victory over an unbeaten Kirkley & Pakefield side.

Stalham 2, Kirkley & Pakefield Reserves 0

STALHAM Town were inspired by captain Steve Ellis to a great victory over an unbeaten Kirkley & Pakefield side.

Manager Carl Nicholls started with a 4-5-1 formation. The first half was an even affair both sides creating few chances, Stalham's defensive formation snuffling out any Kirkley attack.

Midway through the half Stalham got a free-kick 40-yards from goal. Bond had a dig, his shot being parried by Kirkley's No 1 before hitting the roof of the net.

Stalham continued to battle. John Bell and Pete Skivington were outstanding on Town's right with Dave Docarty and James Gooch also looking good in the midfield. Keeper Nicholls was rarely called into action but dominated his box when needed.

Stalham forced a corner, and from this set piece they scored their second. After his initial shot was blocked, Dave Docarty followed up with a power drive from 12-yards into the top corner. Half-time 2-0.

The second half was the same as the first, evenly-matched creating few opportunities. The visitors, surprisingly given their form so far this season, could not break down a very disciplined Stalham team.

Nicky Woods and Danny Tiddel were lively to any threat at the back, but rarely did Kirkley got that far forward. Stalham's Dan Duffield had the ball in the net 15 minutes from time only to be found marginally offside.

MoM: Dave Docarty.