GERARD FISHER Was enjoying a quiet day with his family in Carlisle on Saturday when news of Ian Rush's English FA Cup scoring record filtered through.

Liverpool's legendary marksman had overtaken Denis Law to set a new best in modern times of 42 goals in the competition.

Rochdale goalkeeper Chris Clarke will remember the moment as it was the fifth of seven goals that whizzed past him in the third round match at Anfield. Fisher also vividly recalls facing the Welsh man and losing out.

He was the opposition goalkeeper the day Rush's run started, back in 1979, when his Chester side overcame Workington in the first round.

I remember the match only too well," said Fisher, now a projects foreman for the electricity board. Rushie headed past me from about eight yards. I was beaten by the sheer power of the ball. Everybody in the ground thought he had scored a second as well, although another player was credited with the goal."

Chester enjoyed a great Cup run that season, reaching the fifth round and beating Newcastle along the way. Rush moved to Liverpool in May 1980 and in the last 16 years he has won every honour in the domestic game.

Rush's record breaking goal a quick turn and shot from Robbie Fowler's pass stole the spotlight from Stan Collymore, who got his first hat trick for Liverpool in the 7-0 demolition.

Fowler, a Peter Valentine own goal and Jason McAteer added to Rochdale's downfall but they have a probable £150,000 consolation from the match.

Rush, making his first appearance since November after a cartilage operation, was quick to praise striker partner Fowler for his contribution. Robbie thought about shooting but he gave it to me because he knew the record was on. I want to get to 50 now and reach a level no one will overtake."