Half-Time Report: Torquay United lead Morecambe through Aaron Downes header

Struggling Torquay United are on course to move out of the League Two relegation zone after establishing a 1-0 half-time lead over Morecambe at Plainmoor.

Aaron Downes netted a 17th-minute header to put the managerless Devonshire outfit in front and into a position from where they will leapfrog Bristol Rovers, who are not in action this afternoon, in the table and move out of the bottom two, if the score stays the same.

Elliot Benyon, recalled by caretaker boss Geoff Harrop, who is in charge following Alan Knill's sacking, came close to scoring a second for the Gulls moments later when he nodded Anthony O'Connor's delivery back across goal, but against the crossbar.

Rampaging full-back O'Connor was also involved at the other end, ensuring that his side's advantage was retained when he made an important block from Jack Sampson's shot for Morecambe, who were mainly a threat on the break.

Andrew Fleming, unmarked on the edge of the United box, struck high into the stands, while O'Connor's runs down the wing continued to provide Torquay with opportunities, although Barry Roche saved well after Karl Hawley's header was deflected goalwards off a defender.