Ged Garner stars as Morecambe beat Crawley

Posted Sunday, February 04, 2024 by PA

Striker Ged Garner scored twice as League Two play-off chasers Morecambe came from behind to beat Crawley 2-1.

Harry Forster gave the hosts an ideal start with an early lead, but Garner replied before the break and later won the match with a cool finish in the 86th minute.

This was the Shrimps’ sixth away league win, leaving them four points off the top seven, while Crawley have now lost four of their last five home league games.

Crawley boss Scott Lindsey went into the clash admitting his young side were “on track” to achieve the “in house targets” they have set themselves.

Former Bromley winger Forster gave the Reds an early boost by firing into the bottom corner to the left of keeper Archie Mair for his first Crawley league goal from an assist by ex-Morecambe forward Adam Campbell in the 17th minute.

Crawley keeper Corey Addai came to his side’s rescue by denying Garner in a one-on-one situation before Forster and Nick Tsaroulla both had shots saved at the other end.

Morecambe levelled 10 minutes before the break when Garner, on loan from Barrow, cleverly turned in a first time close-range shot after being set up by David Tutonda.

Crawley had a let off shortly after the break when debutant Julian Larsson crossed for Garner and his close-range effort was kept out by Addai.

Mair kept Morecambe level by producing saves from Campbell and Liam Kelly in quick succession.

Garner popped up to win it for Morecambe six minutes from time, scoring with a low finish from a tight angle.