Perfect second Hartlepool United debut for Gary Liddle following clean sheet in 1-0 win over Dagenham & Redbridge

Gary Liddle in action for Hartlepool United.

Mark Kitching’s 77th minute strike sealed the victory in what was a reasonably comfortable afternoon for the home side.

Liddle signed on loan for Pools on Thursday and was immediately thrust into the starting XI after just two days training with the side.

Shelton has been at the club over a week and was an unused substitute during last weekend’s Trophy defeat at Harrogate Town.

“The new lads were both great,” said assistant manager Joe Parkinson.

“They settled in really well and showed glimpses of what they can do. But we need all of the squad for this busy period, we need everyone doing their most to get into the side.”

On Liddle, Parkinson continued: “It was a great debut and he deserved man of the match. He made an important header late on and you can see his experience and he’s comfortable on the ball so it was a great game from him at the back.

“I was surprised how easily he slotted in to play the full 90 minutes but I think the way Dagenham played sitting off us helped him.

“I didn’t know too much about him to be fair but he had a good aura and 99 times out of 100 he made the right decision. Fraser [Kerr] is unlucky but the change has been made and Liddle was outstanding.”