BIRKENHEAD PARK were happy with a hard earned point at Morley which was sufficient to move Park two places up the North 1 table.

Birkenhead were again forced into a number of changes, with Christian Jones taking over the captaincy for the first time, but they produced a performance full of spirit in a tremendous second-half comeback to share the spoils.

Morley stand off Dave Evans kicked a penalty in the opening minute but Park settled quickly after that initial setback and Ian Kennedy equalised for Park after 20 minutes.

Evans edged Morley ahead with his second penalty but just before half time the home side struck twice to build a commanding lead.

First the elusive Evans jinked through for a fine individual try and then ex-Park man Sion O'Hare scored from long range with a powerful run which brushed off a number of attempted tackles.

Evans converted both and Morley were in control at 20-3 ahead.

Back row man Danny Jones was forced off through injury at half time with Phil Cottle coming on in the second row and Will Penny dropping back to take over from Jones.

Cottle played his part in an excellent display by the Park forwards which saved the day for Birkenhead as they took charge for virtually the whole of the half.

Half backs Paul Kay, who was back in his favoured scrum half position, and Stuart Crampton were effective as Park elected to keep the ball tight.

The tactics paid dividends with tries by Steve Clarke and Ben O'Rourke following forward drives.

Kennedy added both conversions and Park had closed the gap to three points with 15 minutes to go.

Kennedy missed a penalty after 75 minutes which would have tied the scores but he made amends a few minutes later after Morley were penalised and then marched back 10 metres for dissent.

There was still just enough time for the restart and Park were penalised immediately.

Morley replacement, former Welsh International Colin Stephens, stepped up to take the crucial kick which drifted wide much to Park's relief.

Park will be encouraged by a spirited display full of commitment. They will be looking for more of the same this Saturday when third placed West Park are visitors in the North 1 derby, kick off is 2.15 at the Upper Park.