MORECAMBE fell to their fifth defeat in six as they went down to an experienced Bury.
Two goals from former Blackpool man Dom Telford helped Bury seal the points despite the Shrimps scoring twice through Rhys Oates and Liam Mandeville, the latter being an early contender for the goal of the season.
Shrimps’ boss Jim Bentley made two changes from the side that last to Oldham last time out with Barry Roche returning afters suspension and Carlos Mendes-Gomes coming in for his full debut in place of the injures A-Jay Leitch-Smith.
Bury began the game on the front foot and Barry Roche was called into action after just two minutes with a smart save from former PNE man Danny Mayor.
The Morecambe keeper then saved smartly from Neil Danns before producing a stunning reflex block when Luke Conlan deflected an Adams cross towards his own goal.
Bury’s pressure continued with Chris Dagnall firing a shot across the Morecambe goal and Will Aimson driving an effort just wide before the home side took the lead just before the half hour. An Adams corner was headed against the crossbar and the ball fell perfectly for defender Adam Thompson to score from close range.
The Shrimps then fought their way back into the match with a goal from their first attack of any note. The Bury defence failed to clear free kick, Andy Fleming’s snapshot was parried by Joe Murphy but Rhys Oates was perfectly placed to slot home the rebound.
The home side were soon back in front however as Mayor once again provided the inspiration for the Shakers as he weaved an opening for Dom Telford who beat Roche with a measured finish from the edge of the area.
The Shrimps started the second half on the front foot with Oates failing to get in a shot on goal after a poor first touch saw Joe Murphy collect the loose ball.
Jim Bentley’s side continued to press without testing Murphy and they were undone by a third Bury goal three minutes from time when Danns was played in down the right hand side and produced the perfect cross for Telford to run in and score at the far post.
Morecambe pulled one back in injury time with a superb strike from Liam Mandeville from the edge of the box but the home side held on for the points.
Bury: Murphy, Stokes, Aimson, Thompson, McFadzean, Adams, Danns, Dawson (rep Styles 43), Mayor (rep Miller 72), Telford, Dagnall (rep Lavery 62). Subs not used: Hudson, Beckford, Moore, O’Shea.
Morecambe: Roche, Mills, Old, Yarney, Conlan, Fleming, Wildig, Menes-Gomes (rep Ellison 63), Oates (rep Oliver 69), Mandeville, Oswell (rep Piggott 69), Subs not used: Halstead, Hedley, Cranston, Lavelle.
Ref: B Toner.
Att: 3,242.