supersandgrounder

Vauxhall Motors 1 Southport 3

2009-10-27T22:26:00.003Z

The first half was poor, Vauxhall took the lead and both teams were evenly matched. Southport made changes, with Daly and Booth coming on in the second half. Southport improved towards the end and did manage to score 3 goals some how. Vauxhall still threatened but their luck had run out. Not a brilliant match but I have seen worse and we go top of the league.

Southport 3 Harrogate 1

2009-08-29T16:58:00.002Z

Harrogate Town are always a good test for a side. Today at a windy Haig Ave, now without the gasworks, Southport were looking to get the first 3 points of the Bank Holiday weekend.

In the first half Southport dominated but couldnt get the ball in the net, in fact just before half time it was Harrogate that took the lead. Harrogate came out and played much better in the second half but Southport managed to scramble an equaliser from Rob Marsh-Evans, Daly scored from a penalty and Matty McGinn scored the goal of the game to give Southport the 3 points.

It was a good game, with the ball being played on the ground just like the fans want. Several players had a good game.

MOTM Matty McGinn.

Southport 3 Gloucester 2

2009-08-08T19:25:00.002Z

First game of the season. A few new faces in the side. The best today was Rob Marsh-Evans who looked pretty good in attack for a defender, Chris Simm also looks very good and should get a start next game. Southport went a goal down early on but came back and were eventually 3:1 up before conceding a screamer to end the game 3:2.

I think the positives out weigh the negatives. The new signings look as good if not better than the rest of the team. The team have been training on set-pieces and put their practice into effect with some well taken free kicks, corners and throw ins. The style of play was a vast improvement on last season. But Watson was still criticized for his substitutions, and blamed for the team losing the advantage in the second half.

Southports goals were from Matty McGinn, Earl Davis and Ciaran Kilheeney. A very good start to the season.

MOTM: Rob Marsh-Evans

Southport 1 AFC Telford 1

2009-04-18T16:42:00.002Z

It was a lovely sunny day at Haig Ave today, Southport still had half an eye on the title but play offs are a realistic target. Today was the last home league game of the season.
Southport played a 442 against a Telford side featuring Liam Blakeman. The first half was fairly even with Southport having perhaps the upper hand. There were chances but the only Southport goal of the game came from an amazing free kick by Robbie Booth that stunned everyone.
Half time and Southport were winning, but so were Tamworth.
Southport didnt look as good in the second half although it was still fairly equal. Another defensive mistake and again Southport lost their lead. The score remained 1-1 until the final whistle.
Southport are now guarenteed the play offs which is a good result for this season.

MOTM Robbie Boooooooth!

Southport 2 Stalybridge 0

2009-04-11T16:16:00.003Z

It was a gloriously sunny day at Haig Ave this Saturday. It is all about qualifying for the play offs now so a win was important. Southport played more like the Tamworth game than the Droylsden game but had plenty of posession playing 532 again. Kevin Lee was in midfield today and had a good game. Celtic were dangerous from their crosses. Steve Daly took the lead half an hour in and at half time Southport were winning one nil.
At half time Booth and Prince came on and Southport switched to 442. There was a period of confusion, Southport didnt get out of their own half for a while and were under a great deal of pressure.
Eventually Southport sorted themselves out and went on the attack. Their best work came from Robbie Booth on the right wing. Daly hit the cross bar following a Booth cross. But it took a penalty for Southport to double the lead, Steve Daly resolutely carried the ball to the spot and calmly scored.
After the second goal Southport seemed happy to sit back for the rest of the match. Kilheeney obviously wanted a goal to end his barren spell. But it wasnt to be.

MOTM Steve Daly (Robbie Booth)

Southport 3 Droylsden 1

2009-04-07T21:50:00.003Z

Liam Watsons surrender of the title seems to have calmed the players and fans down. Now they are both looking towards a more achievable goal of play offs. Half as many people turned up to watch Southport as last Tuesday after 2 defeats and with Man U on TV.
The first 20 minutes were good attacking football from Southport. Southport played 532 and it looked to be working although neither striker had much service in the first half. Steve Daly did get a goal however from a corner five minutes before half time.
Southport came out attacking again in the second half, this time the strikers had more of the ball. Steve Daly got his second goal of the match. But the best goal of the game was scored by Kevin Lee who blasted the ball into the net with a goal that Kilheeney should be jealous of.
Droylsden did score after some poor defending but Southport were the winners at full time. Michael Powell seems to make a big difference to the side, the team looks back to its winning state with him back in the side.
MOTM: Steve Daly (Kevin Lee)

Southport 0 Tamworth 1

2009-04-02T21:45:00.003Z

Its always the same. The club expects a big gate, you bring a friend, the team play badly, Southport lose.
There were moments that the ball was on the floor and the players did play some football but to often the ball was high in the sky. Kilheeney and Daly didnt have much chance to score.
The tactics were all wrong and the substitutions didnt help at all. Southport did enough work to keep the crowd from boo-ing but not enough for a goal.

Southport 3 Stafford Rangers 2

2009-03-28T17:21:00.002Z

Only 40 seconds in and Southport were a goal down and on the back foot. After 25 minutes of hoofing the ball about Southport were 2 goals down and looked like they would conceed a lot more.
It was a terrible performance with no hope...
Watson made a first half substitution taking James Connolly off and bring on Neil Prince, changing to a 352 formation. Desperation surely...
Within minutes of Prince coming on he had scored and Southport went on the attack. A couple of minutes later Steve Daly scored, and a minute after that he did it again. Three goals in three minutes!
Half time came and the fans were in a good mood for once.
The second half didnt live up to the first, no goals.
It was a good game overall. Stafford were a very good side. It was great to see Prince back in yellow and playing well. Southport will have to play a lot better on Tuesday.

MOTM: Neil Prince, (Robbie Booth)

Southport 3 Burscough 0

2009-03-17T22:47:00.002Z

There was a hint of mist about tonight. A good crowd of just under 1000 came for the postponed New Years day derby. Chris Holland returned to Haig Ave in green for St Patricks Day.
The game was fairly even in the first half up to the last 10 minutes when Southport started dominating. Adam Flynn scored from a corner 5 minutes before the half time whistle.
In the second half with Robbie Booth playing up front as a striker rather than on the wing Southport were a lot more threatening. Obviously under orders to shoot on sight the Port attacked. Matty McGinn, having a great game, scored Southports second, a very nice goal.
Bootha nd Kilheeney were subbed for Smart and Leadbetter and the attack continued. Leadbetter almost scored a couple of times but it was Alan Smart who got the third goal 15 minutes before the end.
The attacking football certainly got the crowd backing the team again.

MOTM Robbie Booth (and Matty McGinn)

Southport 1 Farsley Celtic 0

2009-03-14T17:11:00.002Z

It was sunny with blue skies and a cold wind today. After scoring 5 on Thursday I expected goals today at Haig Ave.
Two former players returned today, Kevin Leadbetter for Southport and Dominic Krief for Celtic. Both players would have good games.
Southport dominated the possession and Celtic looked every bit the side that had let in 5 goals in their previous match. Their strikers didn't look at all threatening.
Southport started well with Leady playing behind Daly and Kilheeney. But as half time came there was no sign of a goal from either team.
Daly was subbed at half time, and Robbie Booth came on. Booth had scored twice on Thursday and looked good. Playing on the right wing he again had plenty of space. After a shaky start he made some dangerous runs down the wing and put some good crosses in. Unfortunately the ball was not played down the wings often enough despite Booth and Leady making the most of the opportunities they had.
The crowd were getting frustrated. There was the first call of the season for Watson to resign and lots of frustrated cries for the ball to be played on the ground. It was 10 minutes before the end that Southport managed to score, man of the moment Robbie Booth getting his third goal in 3 days.
When the final whistle went there were cheers and boos. The general concensus was that Southport were rubbish and it was a terrible match. I dont think it was that bad, the manager and coaches need to do some work on the good aspects of the match.

MOTM: First half: Leady Second Half: Booth

Marine 1 Southport 5 Liverpool Senior Cup

2009-03-12T22:21:00.003Z

I was one of the first Southport fans at Marines ground tonight. There weren't many people that bothered to come out to watch this match, fewer than last year.
The team Southport put out was a mixture of first team players like Davis, Lever, Booth, Gray and Powell, youth players like Peter Moore and John Hedges, coaches Price and Smart and out of favour keeper Drench. A strong starting line up.
It was the tiny John Hedges who took the lead just 29 seconds into the game. His lead didn't last long with Marine equalising with Shaun Tuck's goal after 9 minutes. There were three more Southport goals in the first half two from Robbie Booth, who had had a lot of the ball, and one from Shaun Whalley.
There were three subs in the second half and just one more goal from Shaun Gray. There were few highlights in the second half other than the goal. Both teams came together to discuss a Southport foul and there were a few bookings following that.

MOTM Robbie Booth

Southport 2 Gateshead 3

2009-03-07T17:17:00.003Z

It was a grey day and a grey first half. Michael Powell put the side ahead 5 minutes before the end of a boring first half.
The second half was better, Gateshead drew level and with Kilheeney on Southport looked more likely to score. I thought Kilheeney got the next goal but the players obviously thought Steve Daly scored it. At 2:1 Southport should have been comfortable but a poor clearance from McMillan and a desperate tackle from Earl on the edge of the area gave Gateshead a penalty. 2:2 would have been a fair result but Gateshead went for the win and were rewarded for their efforts with a goal 8 minutes. Southport tried to get an equaliser but ran out of time.

Southport dont have any flair. There are no players like Baker, Duffy, Prince, Holland etc and Leady was out injured. Southport look average and its hard to see how they can win the league or even get into the play offs playing like this.
Southport need to play two strikers and need some pace on the wings. The team looked better when they passed the ball on the ground but they clearly aren't used to it and need some practice.

MOTM: no one

Southport 0 Hinkley 0

2009-02-17T22:49:00.004Z

I didnt have much enthusiasm for the drive up to Southport tonight and I left there wondering if I could have spent my time more constructively.

Hinkley started brightly and their forwards easily beat Southports defence. Southport were again playing with Daly alone upfront and didnt look much like scoring. They did get the ball in the net once but it was ruled off-side. Daly had a good chance to score but headed tamely at the keeper. Duffy, still with us, made some good runs with the ball but Morecambe will have to teach him what to do next. Hinkley played a physical game while Southport hoofed he ball upfield to no one. The crowd blamed the referee but in truth Southport were poor.

In the second half Southport had more possession but Hinkley were over all the better side. Neither side found the net despite both having plenty of chances. Duffy came off for Booth. Robinson came on in the last two minutes. More than a few people were regretting the club releasing Tony Gray.

The final whistle couldnt come fast enough. Nil Nil again, no sign of a game plan other than hoofing the ball up field...last seasons squad was said to be too light weight, so what is the excuse this time?

Must do better if they want to make the play offs and win promotion.

MOTM Kevin Lee

Southport 2 Hyde United 0

2009-02-07T17:20:00.002Z

It was cold but there was some blue sky today. Former Southport stars Farrell Kilbane and Neil FitzHenry returned to Haig Ave with Hyde.
Southport had most of the possession and chances in the first half but with Kilheeny on the bench and Robinson injured, Daly had to do all the work himself. Southport should have scored at least 3 in the first half but had to make do with a single goal, announced as an own goal but Kevin Lee and Steve Daly should get the credit.
Hyde were better int he second half, captain Kilbane leading his line effectively. Kilheeney and Duffy came on in and for a short while Southport looked more threatening. Kilheeney was stretchered off not long after he came on. Steve Daly made sure of the win with a second goal after a one-on-one with the keeper.

Southport will need to look at their formation when they are lacking in strikers. The passing was poor today but Southport took the points and the title challenge is back on.

MOTM Matty McGinn

Burscough 2 Southport 3

2008-12-26T17:36:00.002Z

The sky was clear this Boxing Day as we walked up to Burscough for the Lancashire Derby. It was an important game for me as I managed to bet more than I can afford on a Southport win. With us second in the league and Burscough not winning at home all season and in the relegation zone, it was easy money...
Its well known that most of the Southport personnel came from Burscough but it was a nice surprise to see Steve Dickinson in goal for Burscough.
The first half was even, neither side looking much like scoring. The only goal came from Steve Daly but it wont be one kids will be recreating in the playground, the ball barely trickled over the line.
Half time came and went, the queue for the tea wasn't worth the effort.
Burscough were improved in the second half but former Port legend Dicko gifted Southport a second goal passing the ball to a yellow shirt (old habits die hard) with Kilheeney scoring. Southport were time wasting with avengance. There may have been over 20 minutes to play but Southport were in no mood to play football. Burscough scored a scrappy goal and put the pressure back on Southport. Matty McGinn looked to have scored the last goal of the match making it 3:1 to Southport but despite (or maybe because of) the Ports time wasting the referee let play continue well into extra time and gave Burscough a penalty. With Southport ordered to waste even more time I held my breath until the final whistle. Southport won the 3 points and I won my bets.
It was a poor game, Southport were as bad defensively as the last game but much poorer in attack. The time wasting was embarrasing. Still we got the points and can carry on the push for promotion. Hopefully with Connolly and Lever back in the side things will improve. It will take better performances than that to win the league.
MOTM: Matty McGinn

Southport 5 Gainsborough Trinity 3

2008-12-20T17:34:00.003Z

With Southports strikers on form I hoped for goals and wasn't disappointed. Southport got off to a dream start scoring 3 goals in the first 15 minutes. Ashley Winn scoring on his home debut after just 58 seconds.
You would think such a start would make the Southport fans happy but some are always hoping for the worst. What was worse than listening to them predicting the downfall of the 3 goal lead was watching the three Gainsborough goals going in to prove them right. The Southport defence was missing Lever and Connolly and was largely terrible. The crowd were quick to boo their team and shout abuse at the manager and keeper.
Luckily the midfield and forwards made up for the defensive failings and scored the goals to win the game.
The match ended 5:3, 8 goals and an entertaining game.

MOTM Ashely Winn
Popular Side Pundit: (at 3:2) "Its lucky they got the third goal or they could be losing 3:2"

Southport 2 Kings Lynn 1

2008-11-15T17:17:00.002Z

The skies were clear over Haig Ave today as chevrons of geese migrated high above. Southport started well in the first half but made things hard for themselves by scoring an own goal against the run of play. Adam Flynn headed the ball (which looked to be going out for a goal kick) into his own net but the goal was announced as a King Lynn goal to save his blushes.
Steve Daly leveled the score and Ciaran Kilheeney took the lead with his.
After half time Southport didn't dominate the game in the same way. Twice Southport were down to 10 men as first Moogan then Neil Robinson left to receive treatment. The referee didn't get a grip of the game and ignored Kings Lynn players when they held, tripped and pulled the shirts of Southport players. More importantly he ignored a two footed challenge from behind on Matty McGinn, and after another bad challenge only gave a yellow card for a third challenge that took Duffy off his feet. No one could have argued with a red card. The referee soon blew for the end of the game to avoid any more upset.
Southport won the points but two people spoilt the game, the referee and the moaning git behind me who never has a good word to say about Southport FC.

MOTM: Matty McGinn

Southport 0 Workington 0

2008-11-01T17:29:00.002Z

The weather was a vast improvement on the last two games, clear skies but cold.
The first half was poor with Southports onloan keeper having little to do, likewise his counterpart wasnt troubled much.
The second half was an improvement with Southport putting on the pressure and increasing the pace. Daly came on for Robinson and then later Doolan came on for Barnes and Booth for Duffy. Unfortunately despite a number of corners Southport couldnt score. The young linesman went crimson when he had to decide on a penalty claim but he held his nerve and turned down the claim of handball.
More leadership is needed on the pitch and more options in the centre midfield. Barnes should be signed for the rest of the season and he needs to be used more.
MOTM: Moogan but hard to pick anyone out of this game.

Southport 2 Redditch 3

2008-10-25T16:21:00.004Z

The rain held off for the first half and Southport started brightly. Southport had most of the possession and attacked Redditch and were rewarded with two goals from Michael Powell and Mark Duffy. Southport looked to be in control and heading for a repeat of Tuesday nights 5:2 win. But Southport lost their dominance, the game turned scrappy and Redditch were gifted a goal when Southports keeper and defender both went for the ball and neither got it.
Rather than improving after the half time Southport were worse. The rain started so the Jack Carr stand was home to the Popular Side refugees. Mark Duffy dived in the box and got a penalty for his effort but Kilheeney hit the bar.
Redditch took control and scored two more goals with Southport only looking like they could be bothered in the dying moments of the game.
Watson replaced an attacking player with a defender which did nothing to improve the game. When the game was crying out for Tony Gray, Watson did nothing, only bringing him on with 8 minutes to go. The ball spent most of its time in the air rarely touching the pitch.
Blame was equally divided between manager Watson and keeper Tony McMillan.
Hard to pick a man of the match, Chris Lever, Kevin Lee and Mark Duffy had a good first half. Alan Moogan and Neil Robinson worked hard but neither got the goal they deserved.
Another poor attendance and no reason to come back.

Southport 5 Vauxhall Motors 2

2008-10-21T20:58:00.003Z

The rain tonight was terrible, I wondered why I was going out of the house let alone to go and stand outside and watch nonleague football. There was rain, hail, and thunder. The Popular side was closed, not that many would have been out there. The players came out and then quickly ran back in again to the boos of the crowd. Someone somewhere heard the fans and the rain stopped allowing the game to start.
Those who had left their TVs at home to come out on a rain sodden night were soon rewarded when a Motors back pass floundered in a puddle and was rescued by Kilheeney who scored less than 2 minutes into the game. Shortly after Neil Robinson put the ball int he net but was denied his goal by the linesman. Robbo was not to be denied for long and scored a great goal a quarter of an hour in.
Vauxhall scored while Southport were still talking about Neils goal, to make it 2:1. Robbo scored again to take Southport into halftime winning 3:1.
The rain started again at halftime.
Former Southport player Nick Rogan made it 3:2 with a great goal infront of the Jack Carr stand. But Southport were better in attack than defence and sub Tony Gray came on and scored followed soon after by Kevin Lee who scored his second of the season.
While Southport scored five goals, and players like Steve Daly and Mike Powell came close to scoring, Southport have to remember they were knocked of the top spot by Tamworth on goal difference. Chances have to be taken and the defence tightened up especially after a Southport goal.
Southport's new signing Michael Barnes played well and looks to be a very promising signing.
Vauxhall didnt give up and played till the end with Nick Rogan and Karl Noon upfront.

MOTM Neil Robinson

Southport 3 Solihull Moors 0

2008-10-04T16:13:00.002Z

The weather forecast for today was terrible and after the likewise gloomy reports of the last home game at Haig Ave it was more through duty than enjoyment that I went to todays game. The first half was pretty dire. A lot of people in the crowd were chatting amongst themselves, reading the programme or just yawning, those paying attention were getting frustrated with the lack of action. Watson had said though that the game wasn't about the first 15 minutes and 41 minutes into the first half Southport took the lead. Kilheeney heading home from a Mark Duffy cross. Duffy was the only bright spark in the first half, it is a great shame that he is likely to leave us for Morecambe soon.
As the rain came down the second half started. Southport were much improved, a spell 15
minutes in saw the ball cleared from the goal line. The Moors keeper did a great job of keeping the score down. Southport scored again from a free kick, Moogan showing why he deserves a place in the starting 11. Steve Daly came on an almost immediately scored with a cheeky back heel.
Southport should maybe have scored more but the match ended 3:0.

MOTM: Mark Duffy

Southport 3 Hucknall Town 0

2008-09-13T16:21:00.003Z

Who said the summer was over? It was sunny and warm at Haig Ave today, the pub gardens of Southport were tempting but I went to stand in the sun on the terraces.
Last time I saw Hucknall I poisoned a Panamanian and Liam Blakeman scored some brilliant goals as Southport beat them 5-0 (i think). Today there were no Panamanians but still plenty of goals.
Kilheeney scored a goal that he wont be putting on his top 100 list. Daly hit the cross bar and Kilheeney waited to tap it over the line. The second goal, also scored by Kilheeney, was a better spectacle and reminiscent of Terry Fearns, with Mark Duffy doing the build up work.
Matty McGinn got Southport's third before half time.
Mark Duffy was the stand out player until his substitution in the second half. Robbie Booth and Matty McGinn had a good second half. Moogan is a much more effective player than Doolan, although he did fade towards the end. It is easy to see why he was banned for 6 matches last season.
Steve Daly was substituted in the second half and he will be disappointed with himself for not getting n the scoresheet. Michael Powell had three good chances but there were no more goals.
Hucknall had their chances but did not make anything of them. It is obvious why they are bottom of the league and we are top.

MOTM Mark Duffy.

Southport 0 Alfreton 1

2008-09-06T16:26:00.002Z

This was one of the worst games I have seen at Haig Ave. The game swung from boring to bad with the odd appearance from AirShow to give some interest. Southport couldnt get anything right today, only Mark Duffy showed any sign of playing football and by the second half his crossing had got as bad as his team mates. He did have the best chance of a goal when he sent the ball screaming over the cross bar. It is no consolation that the goal was offside. Most fans thought Davis had equalised but the linesman had had his flag up for ages before the goal.
A terrible game best forgotten.

MOTM Mark Duffy.

Southport 1 Fleetwood Town 1

2008-08-25T16:11:00.004Z

The warm sunshine in Liverpool didn't stretch as far Southport today and most of the game was played in light rain.
The Southport line up was familiar to those who have been to see them this season, with Booth on the left wing.
Fleetwood had Southport favourite Farrel Kilbane in their line up and it was good to see him back at Haig Ave. The attendance was boosted by a decent away following.
Fleetwood started well and were soon in the lead with a rocket of a volley. They should have got another when Connolly headed the ball to the Fleetwood striker rather than clearing it. Luckily the shot was off target.
Luckily for everyone Duffy is still a Southport player and he drew the score level before half time.
The pitch was increasinly wet in the second half as the rain continued. Both sides had plenty of chances from open play and corners/free kicks. The frustrated Southport fans turned their attention to the linesman and referee rather than their own players.
The winning goal never came and the Fleetwood fans left happier than the home fans.

MOTM: Mark Duffy

I bought the Complete NonLeague History of Southport FC today, very impressed with its size and the amount of text, not had much chance to look at it yet and have only spotted one typing mistake so far. Very good!

Southport 1 Harrogate Town 0

2008-08-16T16:28:00.002Z

It was quite windy today at Haig Ave. Drench was at the ground but was not even on the bench again and is not listed in the programme as being a Southport player. McMillan has become the target of the usual internet campaign. Kevin Lee started the match in his new right back position.
There was only one goal in the 90minutes today, Kilheeney scoring his first league for Southport. There were plenty of chances for both sides. Harrogate were a good side with some very short players.
Over all it wasn't a great game. Southport played very deep and the whole side had trouble clearing the ball. Only Mark Duffy seeming interested in going forward. McMillan saved the points for his team with some brilliant saves.
Southport need to improve on set pieces, I cant see us scoring many goals from corners this season.
Hopefully the return of Moogan will improve midfield which was poor again.

MOTM: Mark Duffy
Floating Support Comment: "Waste of money, like watching paint dry, we're not coming back again"

Southport 2 Blyth Spartans 1

2008-08-12T21:25:00.002Z

After a 45 minute delay Southport kicked off their first home game of the season. Kevin Lee was at right back and is working hard to adapt to the new role. He clearly appreciated the applause as he took his place.
Southport had a few shots in the first half, two from McGinn and Kilheeney should maybe have scored from at least one chance. The goal came from super Kevin Lee.
Just before half time the score was equalised when Southport keeper McMillan ran out into a scrum of players leaving his goal open for Andrew Leeson to score.
Both sides looked for the win in the second half. Tony Gray executed one of his over head kicks but the shot was tipped over the bar. He got his goal eventually 5 minutes before the end. Southport held on and claimed all three points.

MOTM: Tony Gray (it would have been Kevin Lee but he was subbed in the first half.)

PreSeason Southport 1 Rochdale 2

2008-08-02T16:46:00.003Z

Not many Southport fans bothered to go to Haig Ave today to watch the last pre-season game, against Rochdale. It was a gloriously sunny day today and Southport started today as they finished Wednesdays match against Wigan. Duffy and Noone were on the wings again and Gray and Kilheeney were up front. Kevin Lee was at right back in what could be his last Southport game.
Southport had a good first half with plenty of possession and chances. Michael Powell got the ball in the net after a goal mouth scramble.
The second half didn't carry on in the same style as the first. Rochdale looked a better side and Southport's substitutions didnt improve the game.
Rochdale scored two very good goals to end the game 2-1.
Noone was the best Southport players today. Daly will be disappointed again with his performance. Tony Gray looks to be the best striker.

Pre Season Southport 2 Wigan 2

2008-07-31T08:09:00.003Z

A warm evening at Haig Ave tonight, Kevin Lee was with the team before the match but played no part in it. No sign of Drench tonight. Wigans team looked like the other reserve sides Southport have played this pre-season. Southport played the first half with quite a defensive formation with Doolan, Price, and Powell in midfield. Daly and Gray were up front. Southport had plenty of posession and spent much of the first 45 minuts in Wigan's half. Daly should have got at least one goal. Two terrible defensive mistakes gifted Wigan their two goals. Had Wigan not scored the second goal they should have been given a penalty for a foul in the goal mouth. Chris Lever had a good first half and made some good tackles. Luckily for the few fans who decided not to watch Liverpool on TV, the second half was an improvement. With Duffy and Noone on the wings Southport attacked much more efficiently. Duffy in particular stood out as the best player on the pitch, Wigan reserves included. Tony Gray scored the first Southport goal, he should have another great season. Just before the end Kilheeney scored the second with Duffy doing the hard work to get the ball in the box. Duffy, Gray, Lever and Noone stood out tonight. Other players showed the odd bit of skill.I would pick Gray and Kilheeney up front, with Noone and Duffy on the wings. Chris Lever and McGinn as wing backs. As for the rest, no one has stood out for me yet. I would still like Doolan to replaced in midfield with someone with more skill, Chris Holland is a tough act to follow.

Pre-Season Southport 1 Tranmere Rovers 4

2008-07-22T20:33:00.003Z

Danny Holmes returned to Haig Ave and brought his Tranmere teammates with him this evening. Tranmere looked the best side to come here so far this pre season and it was no surprise they won 4-1. Southport did have plenty of chances though and played well against a good side.
Southports goal was well worked between Daly and Robinson, with Daly scoring his first goal since returning. Doolan again swore and barracked Chris Lever who didnt look happy tonight. Robbie Booth played his first game since returning and could keep Duffy on the bench this season. No game for Drench or Lee tonight.
Southport need a centre midfield player that can take the ball up to the strikers. Someone like Baker or Blakeman.
Tranmere's travelling fans were singing incomprehensible songs about scousers and enjoyed themselves. Southports fans were at home watching Bonekickers.
A good game but I cant wait for the first meaningful league game.

Pre Season: Southport 1 Manchester City 1

2008-07-19T16:26:00.002Z

Despite what the people at the Open were saying the weather was nice at Haig Ave, sunny but a bit windy. And despite the hopes of the papers and promoters there weren't any famous names on the City team sheet.
Southport scored early on, Tony Gray again. Other than that there was little of interest in the game. Drench was the best Southport player making some good saves and making a few fans regret his transfer status.
City looked better in the second half and put more pressure on Southport and were rewarded with a goal. They should have scored more, their strikers werent up to much.
Duffy had a shoving contest with a big City player but they were told off and shook hands.

Not a great game, even Watson looked disinterested. The team played well and there wasn't much difference between the sides. The sort of players we need to bring in depends on the clubs ambitions for the season.

PreSeason: Southport 2 Chester City 2

2008-07-16T07:53:00.003Z

Not too many people came to watch last nights game despite the warm evening sunshine.
The first half had few points of interest, Neil Robinson fell over the keeper and was generously given a penalty (missed by Kilheeney to save arguements), Earl Davis was lucky not to give away a penalty or two at the other end and would have been carded in a league game for some of his tackles from behind. Chester took the lead when Southport keeper failed to deal with a shot kicked straight at him, the ball rebounded off his chest and was easily put away by the waiting Chester player. There were the odd calls for Drench to come on...
John Doolan didnt seem to offer much in midfield, he didnt have much luck passing and was fairly immobile. Judging by his comments to Chris Lever his coaching style leaves a lot to be desired. I dont think the club need him as a player or coach. Chris Price started and could at least run about more than Doolan could.

The second half substitutions improved Southports game. Drench, Lee, Lever and Duffy played well together and with Tony Gray upfront Southport threatened Chesters goal more artfully than the long ball of the first half. Tony Gray went on to score and a second goal was added by captain Mike Powell.

Neil Robinson looked lively when he was on and had a good shot on goal saved. He jumped well and challenged hard for the ball in the air. Southport now seem to have four good strikers at this level. Will Watson have to play 433 just to keep them all happy?

The club announced a new friendly against Manchester City on Saturday so I will have to change my plans and head north rather than south.

Pre Season Southport 1 Liverpool XI 3

2008-07-14T07:36:00.003Z

Like Pam waking up to find Bobby in the shower we walked into a sunny Haig Ave to find Liam Watson as Southport manager.

There have been big changes at Haig Ave, Watson is back along with McGinn, Daly, and Davis. The biggest change perhaps is the removal of the rotting wood on the terraces, now replaced with new breeze blocks. Gone now is the risk of putting my foot through the floor.

Southport were playing their first pre-season game against a Liverpool XI, mostly reserve players by the looks of it. The crowd was disappointing but Liverpool had played Tranmere the day before and every Liverpool fan I asked had no idea they were playing Southport.

The first half was fairly even without much action at the either goal. Good to see Steve Daly back in a Southport shirt. In the second half Liverpool made some substitutions and they out classed Southport. Southport's chances came from long balls hoofed up to the strikers by-passing an ineffective midfield. Robinson got the team a penalty with a well timed fall and Kilheeney scored his first Southport goal from the spot.

I dont think anything can be learnt about the new Southport team from this game. No player stood out, even Duffy had a quiet game. If the match is anything to go by the fans will miss Chris Holland this season.

Southport 1 Stalybridge Celtic 0

2008-04-30T21:00:00.002Z

Southport head into the play offs with form on their side. Most of Southport was at home watching the Liverpool Chelsea match but there wasa good crowd at Haig Ave. There were lots of scally youths on the popular side and hoping to smoke enough to impress someone of the opposite sex enough to get lucky and have a chance of a teen pregnancy. At least my car was safe while they were running about behind the terraces.
On the pitch the game was well matched and lively. It was end to end stuff and Southport took the lead with a strike from Liam Blakeman after half an hour. In the second half Southport were forced to use their substitutions with Holland, Duffy and Prince going off injured. Prince was stretchered off but hopefully, given he has movement in the knee, it isnt as bad as it might have looked. Both sides had chances to increase the score but Southport hung on in the 5 minutes of extra time to win this leg and go to Stalybridge on Sunday with a one goal lead.

MOTM Neil Prince.

Vauxhall Motors 1 Southport 2

2008-04-26T16:34:00.002Z

Today Southport needed a win to put them in the play offs. Vauxhall are already relegated from the Conference to the Unibond.
The ground was full of Southport fans and it wasnt until half time that I saw a home supporter.
The first half was all Southport, but there were only two goals to show for the dominance. Both goals were scored in the first 8 minutes. Neil Prince and Tony Gray boths cored within a few minutes of each other.
The second half didnt match up to the first. Motors scored from a free kick, the first time they had been into the Southport half in the second 45 minutes. Once they had scored they pushed for an equaliser but scoring has been a problem for Vauxhall this season and they didnt manage to spoil Southports party.
Duffy faded and was subbed, with a more defensive Mike Powell coming on to protect the lead.
Eventually the ref blew for the end of the match and Southport took the three points and their ticket to the play offs.

MOTM Neil Prince.

Southport 2 Leigh RMI 0

2008-04-24T11:10:00.002Z

The last home game of the season...maybe.

It wasn't a great game but Southport scored two pretty amazing goals. Tony Gray scored with an overhead kick and Liam Blakeman blasted his in.

The Leigh fans worked harder than their players but Leigh didnt play like a team that had been beaten.

On to Vauxhall for the last game of the league season.

Southport 1 Alfreton 0

2008-04-15T20:55:00.003Z

As the sun set over the Jack Carr stand Southport kicked off looking to get 3 points to give themselves a chance save their season. There were 15 away fans behind the goal and less than 800 in the ground altogether. The free ticket offer hasn't brought the crowds in.

The first half was pretty poor. Alfretons strikers easily beat Southports back four and it was only Drench and their own ineptness that stopped the scoring. Drench caused a few panics and at times Southport were their own worst enemy. Southport had their chances but couldnt get the ball over the line.
Somehow it was 0-0 at half time and Brabins team were boo-ed off the pitch.
The second half wasn't much of an improvement. But Rae managed to get the points for Southport with a fierce shot. Southport hung on and took the points. Alfretons fans will be disappointed they were not winning by three or four at half time.

MOTM Rae for his goal though he didnt do much else.
Popular Side Pundit "Worst game of the season"

Southport 0 Kettering 1

2008-04-12T16:20:00.002Z

The morning the weather was terrible, sleet and rain and gusty wind, but after lunch the skies cleared and the sun came out.
Southport sacked yet another manager so it was another debut game for a new Southport manager. Southports opponents today were league champions Kettering and their fans were on the terraces singing and celebrating.
Southport had a huddle before kick off and from kick off had the majority of the possession. The midfield passed the ball about well and the defence looked composed. Scoring hasn't been a problem for a while but today Southport just couldnt get a goal. Half time 0-0.
As has happened before this season Southport couldnt carry their good play into the second half. Kettering upped their game a bit and Southport couldnt dominate the possesion as they had in the first 45. Kettering's set pieces were far more effective than Southports and it was from a free kick they scored their goal.
Southport had 4 or 5 corners at the end of the game but didnt cause the Ketting Keeper any problems.
Southport lost again but there were no boos and most people seemed not to mind losing to the Champions.

MOTM Chris Holland
Popular Side Pundit: Not there.

Southport 2 Boston United 2

2008-03-29T17:09:00.002Z

Terrible weather was forecast for this afternoon and Chesters game had been called off because of it. It was windy and raining as I stood on the much depleted Popular Terrace.
Terry Smith was in goal and Richard Whiteside was back with the team on the bench.
Again the team went into a huddle before kick off, it looks like the players are pulling together to prove their critics in the crowd wrong.
In the first half Southport played some good football in nasty conditions. The pitch was slippy but Southport managed to pass and move well and were rewarded with an early goal from super striker Tony Gray (worth repeating that some fans wanted him sacked earlier in the season). Southport looked like getting another goal and dominated the possession. The second goal was scored by Mark Duffy from a free kick not long before the whistle for half time.
Southport went in at half time winning the game two goals to nil.
Boston came out early and played much better in the second half. The wind and rain died down. Southport had a couple of good chances 10 minutes into the second half with Rae blasting the ball at Bostons goal and again from the resulting corner.
Southport ignored the instructions shouted from the bench and resorted to a long ball game, they bypassed the midfield and hit long high balls to sub striker Jack. Jack rarely touched the ball in the second half because of this. Prince looked good when the ball was on the pitch. Too often players headed balls away rather than taking it on their chest and controlling it.
After a ignored handball Boston got a goal back. With the game drawing to a close the Southport fans started singing but their cheers soon turned to boos as Southport conceeded a second goal. Southport left the field with just one of the three points they should have claimed.

MOTM Chris Holland
Popular Side Pundit : Home and dry
Jack Carr Pundit: "You're Shit!"

Southport 1 Workington 1

2008-03-24T17:12:00.002Z

It would seem that a weekend is a long time in football. On Saturday Southport beat Telford 5-1 away and today, Monday, Southport were boo-ed off the pitch at half time.
It was sunny today but the wind was cold and there were some nasty looking clouds that threatened snow. Despite the impressive win on Saturday the crowd was just 971 at Haig Avenue.
The moaning old git was in place to run the team down and complain non stop for 90 minutes. He started with at kick off by saying he had no idea how Southport had managed 5 goals at Telford. He was thrilled when Workington took the lead from a soft goal given as a Kevin Lee own goal. His moaning increased towards half time with Southport doing little to shut him up.

When the whistle did come for half time it was drowned out by the boo-ing supporters.

Southport started the second half better than the first and quickly made two substitutions with Blakeman and Jack going off. Blakemans substitution was obviously popular as it was greated with cheers. With Duffy and Ollie James on the team looked much more effective. The ball was played on the ground more and Southport threatened goal.

The moaning git was silenced by Tony Gray scoring the equaliser. Sadly Southport seemed content with the draw and didn't maintain the threat on goal. Michael Rae looked like the sort of striker we have been missing but was subbed for Neil Robinson who offered little in the time he was on the pitch.

Both sides had chances but there was no winning today and the match finished One - One.

MOTM: Chris Holland
Popular Side Pundit: "This lot'll never score, Telford was a fluke"

Southport 2 Stalybridge Celtic 3

2008-03-15T17:17:00.003Z

Once again the old saying that football is a game of two halves proved true. Today was my first chance to see new signing Ollie James. He played up front with Tony Gray who is on fine form at the moment.
The game started energetically with both teams attacking. Southport passed the ball well and there was some great football being played. Paul Barratt and Neil Prince did well on the wings and it was a result of a run down the wing and a cross to Ollie James that got Southport the first goal of the game. It looked like there would be more goals but Chris Holland had obviously been watching too much rugby and fire his shot almost over the Jack Carr stand. Tony Gray shot over the bar too.
The first half finished with Southport winning 1-0 and everything was looking good for the second half.
Sadly Southport didnt start the second half the same as the did the first. Within 20 minutes Southport were losing 3-1 and the faithful fans were walking out the gates.
Southport managed to get a goal back with a Tony Gray penalty which kept the rest of the home fans in the ground until the end but they didnt get the equaliser they hope for.
The Stalybridge fans had sung and cheered throughout and they fully deserved to go home happy with their three goals and three points.

MOTM: Paul Barratt
Popular Side Pundit verdict "Clueless!"

Southport 4 Leigh RMI 0 Lancashire Co-operative Challenge Trophy Semi Final

2008-03-05T13:03:00.002Z

I was in two minds whether to go to the match last night or not. A cold Tuesday evening, paying £8 for a meaningless cup game?
Luckily I decided to go. The first half was less than amazing. If the Southport back four were on a pay-as-you-pass deal they would have been rich by half time. Leigh spent most of their time in their half with Southport passing the ball along the half way line; neither side bothering the keepers.
A two footed tackle on Michael Powell saw a swift red card for Leigh and the referee quickly snuffing out the retalliation.
0-0 at half time with the threat of extra time and penalties.
Luckily Southport saved us from having to stay out in the cold night any longer than necessary. Kevin Lee took the lead with a headed goal from a corner. Robinson went off for Houghton who put the Port two goals up. Houghton was on the wrong end of a clearance, getting the ball straight in his face, but he was helped up and carried on.
The third goal was the best of the evening, Tony Gray scoring from beyond the area with a volley that would have been shown again and again on Match of the Day.
Southport made it four with Josh Hine scoring towards the end.
The half dozen Railway fans were in good voice right up to the final whistle and did their team proud. Leigh played good football which was nice to see after the game on Staurday.
Holmes had a great game and the back four were in control for the whole match.

MOTM: Tony Gray (another super goal)
Popular Side Pundit: At home

Southport 1 Redditch 1

2008-03-01T17:24:00.002Z

Southport started brightly on a grey and windy day at Haig Ave. Southport passed the ball well and advanced unhindered down the wings, Redditch's back four towered over Tony Gray but he got the better of them and scored a quite spectacular goal to put Southport in the lead. Powell and Blakeman both started and with Prince injured it left the subs bench rather uninspiring. In the second half Redditch were very physical, with elbows and hard tackles as well as the shirt pulling and holding. Duffy got clattered by a two footed tackle and had to be given a piggy back to the tunnel, he was replaced by Houghton with Gray going on the wing.
The referee seemed to have little control of the game, Southport players had to wait ages for him to personally bring them back on the pitch after treatment. Southport played with 10 men for a while. Redditch equalised by a penalty. There was always hope of a winning goal but it was Drench that made more saves. There were more fouls on the pitch, some of which the referee decided to punish. Towards the end two Redditch players were sent off (and so was their manager) and the keeper booked for time wasting. There was another nasty tackle on a Southport player at the end with the referee choosing to blow for full time rather than punish the player.
As the players were leaving the pitch a fracas broke out with officials, stewards, players and coaches all joining in. A disgraceful end to a match that was allowed to decend into thuggery.
Southport didn't lose but should have won. With less than 900 in the crowd and the squad at its bare bones it is ideal fodder for the doomsayers who love to see the club fail.

MOTM: Tony Gray (for his goal)
Popular Side Pundit: "This lot wont win anything"

Southport 2 Nuneaton Borough 2

2008-02-16T17:23:00.002Z

The sun was shining at Haig Ave today but it looked like a lot of people had decided to stay indoors to watch Liverpool at home to Barnsley in the FA Cup. Southport started well and looked like they could do well today. Nuneaton Borough were the worst side I have seen this season and had even worse striking ability than Southport have of late. Typically though Southport shot wide and high. Neil Robinson finally scored and Southport looked like taking thier lead into the half time break but just before the whistle would have gone Drench conceeded a penalty making it 1-1 at half time.
Southport didn't start the second half as well as the first and Nuneaton had much more of the action. Nuneaton threatened but it was Southport who put them in the lead with an own goal. Blakeman came on and looked like he could have done more with more time on the pitch. Neil Prince who had a gret game scored the equalising goal and despite presure Southport had to ettle for a 2-2 draw in a game they should have won easily.
The good news was Liverpool lost.

MOTM Neil Prince
Popular Side Pundit: At home with the TV on.

Southport 0 Worcester 1

2008-01-26T17:19:00.000Z

It had to happen sometime but surely Worcester didnt deserve to win today and end Southports home league unbeaten run. Southport had the majority of possession and plenty of corners and free kicks but couldnt get the ball in the net. Late in the second half Worcester scored and after that Southport didnt look like they would get anything from the game. Blakeman was on the bench and couldnt even get a run out when Southport needed goals.

If Southport had a goal scorer to play with any of the other strikers we would have won this match easily. Oh for Terry Fearns and his goals that got us promoted last time.
Charlie has spent the money before to win this league, will he do it again?

MOTM Paul Barratt
Popular Side Pundit "They dont want to win"

Marine 2 Southport 1

2008-01-26T13:34:00.000Z

A very poor performance from Southport after a bright start and an opening goal from Tony Gray. Could this have been the last game for Liam Blakeman in a Southport shirt?
Former Southport player Darren Brookfield had a good game. The Panamanian football coach in the crowd enjoyed the match but wasn't impressed with the quality of football from Southport.

Burscough 1 Southport 1

2008-01-02T15:13:00.000Z

After a nice New Years Day walk to the ground I was looking forward to seeing some decent football between two good Conf North sides. There were plenty of familiar faces on the opposition for both sets of fans, sadly the Southport supporters werent too friendly to our former favourites and had to be warned about sectarian and racist abuse.
The game was okay but Southport looked like champagne left over from the night before, a little lacking in fizz. Both sides attacked but it was Burscough who took the lead. Southport had had a change in keeper, with Whiteside dropped to the bench after his nightmare performance against Barrow, Smith was on loan to Fleetwood and Drench had come in on loan from Morecambe.
Neil Robinson and Liam Blakeman worked hard and Bennett continued to show his good form. Robinson scored against his old club to bring the scores level and should have taken the lead on at least one chance.
Again Prince was left out and the squad looked lacking in experience. Burscough were combative but only Powell seemed up for a fight for Southport. Duffy was booked again and will surely miss some games soon.
It was a fair result but both sides should have expected to win the match.
Southport need something extra and have looked below par for a while now. Players like Prince and Gray haven't continued the fine form they had at the start of the season and the team is lacking as a result.

MOTM: Neil Robinson (despite his miss)

Southport 1 Barrow 1

2007-12-29T17:22:00.000Z

The weather today was terrible. Windy and rainy, the view from the Thatch and Thistle was of horizontal rain. But by the time I was on the terraces the rain had stopped. Southport had to play into the wind in the first half and most of the action was near the Port goal. When the ball was played on the ground Southport could made rare raids into the Barrow half but didnt really threaten the Barrow goal other than a Chris Lever header.
At the half time break the rain started and everyone headed for cover. People seemed to expect Southport to have it easy in the second half wih the wind at their backs. But they were wrong. Southport didnt seem to have a plan or much passion or will to win. In fact the benches showed more passion as the game was stopped to sort out the fracas there. Southport did take the lead when Robinson scored but the celebrations didnt last long, even while the Southport fans were mocking the Barrow supporters Barrow looked like equalizing. With four minutes of extra time on the board Southport looked like they might hold out and take the three points but in scenes very familiar to Southport fans a late goal was conceeded and Kevin Lee sent off.

The second half was very dissappointing and Southport threw the points away, Barrow fans will be pleased with the draw but they could have expected a win and all three points.

MOTM: Paul Barratt

Jack Carr Stand Motivational Speaker (with Southport winning): "You're fucking shit Southport"

Southport 1 Burscough 0

2007-12-26T17:19:00.000Z

Boxing Day against Burscough, over 1700 in the crowd and from the looks of it the whole of Burscough town were there. Burscough FC could look like the ghost of Southport past but on the field today there were only five ex-Southport players in Green. The first half was lively, Southport took a while to settle down and get into the swing of things, but it was an equal match that looked like it could produce some goals. Despite expectations it was goal-less at halftime.

Southport obviouslyhad a good talking to and came out with intent. Southport took the lead when Paul Barrett scored a very nice goal but after that Southport were on the back foot as Burscough brought on two subs and went on the attack. Some of their players took the attack a little literally and after a number of fouls by Burscough players they were down to ten men with their number six walking towards the tunnel before the card was out the refs pocket.

As the game headed to its conclusion Southport battered the Burscough defence, with the fans holding their heads in their hands, but there was no second goal and Southport had to settle for the 3 points instead.

Neil Robinson didnt really look like scoring but still played some good football which is obviously what Davenport saw in him. Barratt and Danny Holmes had good games, Duffy needs to work on his end product as it lets down all his hard work.

Southport need to improve to keep in the running for the Conf North title and promotion. I think the club needs to bring in some quality players to add to the side and help push things forward. Davenport has done well with his signings but is working with a limited budget. As always a striker who can and will shoot at goal is number one onthe wish list.

MOTM: Danny Holmes

PopularSide Pundit: "You prune!"

Southport 0 Harrogate Town 0

2007-12-08T17:12:00.000Z

It was cold wet and windy today at Haig Ave and at the end of 90 minutes it was still 0-0. There was little to talk about today, Southport's best (and only) attempt at goal was a second half low diving header from Neil Robinson. With the wind against Southport in the second half the yellows had to work hard to get up field. I think everyone was glad to hear the final whistle and get away from the weather. The Harrogate fans made plenty of noise and sounded like they were enjoying themselves despite the conditions.

Southport 3 Vauxhall Motors 2

2007-11-25T16:08:00.000Z

A great come back after a dismal first half. Highlight was Neil Robinson scoring and celebrating like he had never been away. Southport were surprised by Vauxhalls strikers who shot at goal, something rarely seen done by Southports strikers.

Southport 2 Blyth Spartans 1

2007-11-17T17:10:00.000Z

Before the match the team were playing tig and enjoying themselves, but playtime was soon over and it was back to work, this week against the Spartans.
It took just six minutes for the Popular Side Pundit to sum up the whole game as being beyond Southport who would be lucky to get to ten minutes without conceeding. Southport backed off far too mch and allowed Blyth to attack. Richard Whiteside made some great saves to keep the scores level at 0-0.

Southport threatened most from corners and free kicks near to the area. It was the only time Port had players in the box. It was Chris Lever who took advantage of the pressure and scored with a header after half an hours play.

Blyth didn't give up hope though and looked likely to score much to the frustration of Whiteside and Lee.

In the second half Southport managed to score from open play when Neil Robinson intercepted the ball which came to Mark Houghton who confidently scored. This was most definately not an own goal. Houghtons goal seemed to wake the rest of the squad up, even Robinson decided to wake up and take part in the match.

Whiteside still had plenty of work to do though ad was outraged when Southport stood by and let Blyth score to make for a very tense 20 minutes. Houghton was injured and had to be treated (by Blyths keeper of all people). Blakeman came on with Josh Hine who looked a promising player. Both sides had chances to score but with much relief the match ended with Southport winning 2-1.

MOTM: Richard Whiteside
Popular Side Pundit: As Southport score to make it 2-0 "We dont deserve it"

Southport 2 Tamworth 2

2007-11-03T17:21:00.000Z

There were extra stewards today busily scouring the terraces for illicit photographers. Unfortunately the players must have heard there was a chance of having their picture snapped and stood still, unblinking as Tamworth scred not one but two goals in the first 7 minutes.
Southport looked poor throughout the first half with the ball rarely reaching the strikers. The keeping, passing, shooting and defending were all bad.
Michael Powell let himself down when he punched a Tamworth player in the back in Southports penalty area and then continued to have words with their forwards, avoiding being headbutted all out of sight of the officials.
The Southport players were boo-ed off the pitch by their supporters.
The second half was a different game. Southport came out looking for goals and were rewarded for their efforts by a brilliant free kick taken by Sean Newton making it 2-1 with plenty of time to get another. As it was Southport left it until the end to grab another goal with super sub Adam Dugdale heading home to draw even. Southport looked like they could have got another goal and taken all the points but ran out of time.
Southport left the field to applause but with Burscough winning the moaners and sackers will still be online calling for the heads of the players and manager.

MOTM: Neil Prince
Popular Side Pundit Comment "You're playing like wallies!"

Neil Robinson

2007-10-27T16:48:00.000Z

Southport 1 Northwich Victoria 3

2007-10-27T16:21:00.000Z

The grey skies threatened rain but there was hope that the romance of the FA Cup and the return of Neil Robinson might see Southport qualify for the FA Cup.
Southport started well and looked to be the better team with two shots on goal in the first two minutes. Norhwich took the lead however from a free kick which saw Kevin Lee head an own goal. Things could have been different if Tony Gray had done better with his penalty but he didnt trouble the keeper and it remained 1-0. The rest of the first half was fracious with Duffy being at the centre of a few disputes. The referee seemed clueless and had no control of the game. Had it not been for half time there would have been some red cards.

There didn't seem to be as much fight in Southport in the second half and a second Northwich goal caused Southport heads to drop. A third goal by former Southport striker Paul Tait put the game out of reach. With only minutes left three time Southport player and one time manager Dino Maamria pulled on a green shirt and came on for his team. Luckily he didnt score and was on the pitch to see a consolation goal by Southport sub Adam Dugdale. There was no time for a fight back and the match ended 3-1 to the sound of boos and applause.

The manager was blamed by some vocal Southport fans, his tactics and substitutions blamed for a dissapointing performance. With no money from the FA Cup on the horizon will Southport be able to bring in any more quality players?

Southport 5 Hucknall Town 0

2007-10-09T16:34:00.000Z

With the Latin American representation unusally high in the crowd it was up to Southport to show some Brazilian flair. The first two goals looked like absolute gifts, though the video shows the first one wasnt as bad as i first thought. The Hucknall keeper was at fault for the second and the third was a gidt wrapped present with a card and a nice bow with love from Hucknalls number three who gave us a free kick 9 or 10 yards outside the area and then kindlys cored the goal on the rebound.
It looked like Hucknall were beating themselves but Southport showed they could score goals of their own and Blackman did just that scoring two great goals to make it 5 - nil.
Hucknal were terrible conceeding goals that Southport have many times. When your luck is bad in this league its really bad.

FA Cup Skelmersdale United 0 Southport 1

2007-09-29T16:52:00.000Z

After a pub lunch in one of Cains newer pubs in Southport we set off to see Southport start a new FA Cup campaign. On ariving in Skem we couldnt resista a tour of the famous roundabouts, before finally parking at Asda. There were plenty of cars around which promised a good turn out from the Southport faithful.
There was a queue to get into the ground, so we went straight in rather than popping into the social club. The ground is certainly adequate for the their level of football in the Unibond. There was some concern about the amount of cover, if it had rained as the clouds threatened there would have been a scramble for the covered seats. But as it turned out the rain held off and the sun made a second half appearance. Most of the 700-odd fans were Southport supporters.
The first half was poor, the only highlight being Tony Grays goal. Southport were bad and there was little difference between the two sides and not much sign of the difference in leagues. In fact sometimes Skem looked the better side.
Half time came, I hoped and expected for goals in the second half. Southport should beable to beat teams like Skem 3 or 4 nil. The second half was an improvement on the first but still pretty bad. The ball spent most of the time in the air, but when it did stay on the pitch there were some flashes of good football. But only flashes.
The only highlight of the second half was the fracas which saw the players and managers in a scuffle. Dav was sent to the stand, about 5ft from his dug out.

It was a bad match which ended 1-0. Thankfully no need for a replay.

Southport 2 Hyde United 1

2007-09-18T21:00:00.000Z

Tonights game on a cold Tuesday night at the start of Autumn was exactly the type of game that keep me coming back. It was the perfect example of English non-league football. On a night when many fans chose to stay at home and watch Liverpool on the tele I didnt envy them once.
The first half saw Hyde attacking down the wings with little resistance, luckily Hyde had no centre forwards to take advantage. Hydes defence were solid, including the Southport legend Steve Pickford. Hyde took the lead and held it up to half time.

The second half was a bit moreequal with Southport attacking more. There seemed to be an endless amount of corners. At times things got a bit fraught on the pitch as passions ran high. It looked like Hyde were going to hang on to the 3 points and weather the Southport storm. But Southport substitute Karl Noon equalised with five minutes to go. Had the game ended there I would have been relieved but with 5 minutes of extra time Kevin Lee did it again and scored from a corner to make it 2-1 and steal all the points from Hyde. The whistle blew and the smiles on the faces of the hundreds of Southport fans who had turned up showed why we all do it.

Man of the Match: Kevin Lee.

Southport 3 Solihull Moors 2

2007-09-15T16:12:00.000Z

A gloriously sunny day at Haig Ave today. I was confident we would get a win today against the "new" team Solihull Moors. The game started well with Kevin Lee heading home a goal from a corner. The defenders could teach our strikers a thing or two at the moment as the second goal came from Mike Powell. There was then a inexplicable Solihull goal which meant the sides went in at half time with the score 2-1.
Solihull looked better in the second half but it was Southports player of the season (so far) Kevin Lee who scored again giving himself a headache and the team a two goal lead.
There were some hairy moments for Southport as some of the old bad habits came back. Southport lost control of the game and conceded another goal and there then followed a very panicy few minutes which could have seen Southport either get another goal or lose the points. But Southport held out and the game finished 3-2.

It was a very entertaining match and a good performance all round. At times Southport look like they need some more experience to keep things calm when things are going against them. Solihull weren't great but carried on playing to the last whistle.

MOTM: Kevin Lee

Popular Side Pundit Comment: "Stand on your feet you prune!"

Southport 4 Hinkley 0

2007-09-01T16:10:00.000Z

It was a windy day at Haig Ave today and there was no sign of the new striker that was rumoured to be playing this weekend. Luckily he wasn't missed. Southport took the lead when Chris Lever scored from a Mark Duffy corner. It all went a bit quiet on the pitch after that but sadly the same could not be said for the moaning gits on the terraces. Despite the fact Southport were winning at Haig Ave they said we looked more likely to lose the match. Even when Mark Houghton scored a wonder goal the moaners went happy. The third did quiet them down for a few seconds and the fourth got them changing the subject to something other than football.
It was great to see Mark Houghton score for Southport especialy such a well taken goal. The club have said he has great promise and he certainly showed it today. The third goal was cored by Mike Powell and the fourth was an own goal.
It will be a long ride home for Hinkley.

Southport 1 AFC Telford 1

2007-08-25T16:06:00.000Z

A busy game but not one for the football perfectionists on the Popular side. Southport had the majority of the possession and most of the game was played in Telfords half but Southport only managed a single goal from Neil Prince on 29 minutes. Southport rarely looked in control and just as someone said "its in the bag" Telford scored, seconds later the final whistle went.
Telford brought a good noisey following who brought some much needed atmosphere to Haig Ave and acted like they had won the FA Cup when they equalised.
Southport were okay but it was their mistakes that cost them the points not the referee as some will say. The moaners picked out keeper Whiteside and goalscorer Prince for abuse.
We still need a striker, there was no sign of the latest one to be brought in. Rodney Jack will get a heros welcome should he ever return. Blakemen was up to his best but only for a few moments in the 90mins. I was glad to see Beeley coming on and hope he can get a start in future games.
Southport do not look as good as they did pre-season and need to adjust to the league. I hope the manager can sort his players out and get some confidence and structure back.

Southport 3 Gainsborough Trinity 0

2007-08-11T16:13:00.000Z

A great way to start the season. There were a couple of new faces in the team and the side didnt look as comfortable as they had in some of the later pre-season games. Goals came from Tony Gray, Neil Prince and Joel Byram. In truth both sides should have scored more goals. I have no doubt that the Southport side can and will improve as they play more games.
There were still people moaning in the crowd, I have no idea why they come to Southport games. One positive was the good looking blond who is the first good looking lady to visit the Popular side in many seasons.And to put the cherry on the cake the club has banned Phil Rodwell from the ground, BRILLIANT!!!!

Southport 0 Morecambe 1

2007-08-02T20:55:00.000Z

Our last friendly of the season and it wasnt the most thrilling but it was pretty good. We were missing Chris Holland and Rodney Jack, the lack of their experience showed at times. It was a fairly equal match between the Conf North side and the League two side. Morecambe didnt bring many away fans with them, but they didnt miss much by staying at home. I think the Southport fans would be more encouraged by the performance than the Morecambe fans.
Kevin Lee hd another good game, Blakeman showed signs of his talent. Duffy and Prince are very good.
Southport should have taken the lead but shot over the bar and then less than a minute later conceeded a soft goal. But that was late on.
We had yet another trialist, Xavi Barro, who looked like Drogba and played like Tait. Marc Baker played well when he came on.
I am still concerned we havent solved the striker problem of last season. Other than that things look fine and it will be interesting to see how the squad do against Conf North opposition rather than League sides.

Of all the trialists Beeley and Jack stand out. Of those we kept Kevin Lee has improved the most over the summer. Prince has shown to be a great signing despite being slagged of by "fans" before the first ball had been kicked. We have been blessed with some great keepers over the last couple of seasons and this season is no different even if their shot stoppingis better than their kicking!

Southport 2 Macclesfield 0

2007-07-28T16:12:00.000Z

These last two matches have been very good and show the team off much better than the other games.
We scored two goals in the first ten minutes and held onto that lead to the end despite a lot of subs.
Kevin Lee is looking very good this pre-season. I hope we can sign Rodney Jack as he shows great experience and class. Blakeman had a good game but I think he is beter in centre midfield than on the wing, but it was good to see him as an attacking midfield player rather than at left back.

Southport 1 Tranmere Rovers 0

2007-07-26T08:46:00.000Z

My first home game of the season. It was a nice night and despite the large number of cars there weren't many in the ground. This game had the fewest number of trialists of any I have seen so far, 7 of the starting 11 having played for us before. Blakeman was back where he should be in midfield with Powell and Beeley at right/left back.
The first half was pretty evenly matched and ended 0-0 with neither side having many chances on goal. Tranmere started the second half better than their first but it was Southport that took the lead with a great goal from Gray who was setup by new trialist Rodney Jack. Gray has now scored in every game I have seen him start, that must give him a starting place for the season. Chris Holland stands out as the best player Southport have and Sean Beeley made a good claim for a contract with some great tackles and good passing from right back. A worthy replacement for Chris Lane.

Raith Rovers (at Vauxhall)

2007-07-17T10:09:00.000Z

The match was moved at short notice to Vauxhall Motors all weather training pitch. Southport had 3 or 4 recognizable players and some trialists and a couple of the opposition to make up numbers.
There were a lot of Scottish fans there, mostly exiled Raith supporters.
Southport won 3-1 with the help of an onloan Raith player.

Hopefully the next game will be a bit more organised.

Southport 3 Burton Albion 1

2007-04-09T16:22:00.000Z

There was a good crowd with a lot of fans wearing old shirts who had shown up for the free match offer. Southport had scored 8 goals in the last two matches but didnt look like scoring in the first half and some bad defending left them one nil down at half time. The second half saw a penalty taken by Baker equalise the score and give Southport a chance of taking some points. Boyd showed his skill with free kicks but it was Mark Duffy who got the goal from a free kick to put Southport ahead with ten minutes to go. It was a very tense 10 minutes that saw Southport play very deep in their own half, but the tension was eased with Sean Patterson scoring a very well taken goal to give Southport the 3 points and a glimmer of hope.

Southport 5 Stafford 1

2007-03-31T16:16:00.000Z

Granted Stafford are part time and were dreadful but, even knowing that, winning a match 5-1 is well worth the £11. It was great to see Boyd and Dino get goals given the abuse they have recieved from Southport "fans". Dino was even boo-ed as the team ran out at the start of the match, where were the boo boys when he scored his second goal of the game? Boyds goal from a very well taken free kick was the best of the day. All to late for the season but it shows that this squad could beat the sides in the Conf North.

Southport 1 Halifax 1

2007-03-28T15:46:00.000Z

Same old story, Southport cant score except from a rebounded penalty save, and cant hold on to a one goal lead, conceeding 2 minutes into extra time. 10 man Southport were saved by the whistle as Halifax piled on the pressure. Some pretty passing from Southport at times but the "strikers" prefer to to back and pass backwards when one on one with the keeper.
Conference North next season but who will be in the team and who will be running it?

Southport 0 Weymouth 1

2007-03-17T17:51:00.000Z

The first half was boring with rain being blown across the pitch. The second half started better but neither team could score. Southport had Tait booked and Blakeman warned for diving. Southport were obviously looking for the three points but our shotshy strikers couldnt get a goal. Weymouths keeper on the other hand could. His long kick bounced over Southports keeper of the day and into the goal. The Southport crowd got up and left.

Southport 1 Dagenham & Redbridge 4

2007-03-03T17:15:00.000Z

The sun was shining and given the draw last time these teams met anything could have happened today. Southport were missing Boyd and Lane but with 4 strikers named it was obvious they would be looking to score. Sadly the goals were all going the wrong way. Within minutes Southport were a goal down and despite some good saves by Harrison and hard work by Holland Southport were outclassed by an average looking Dagenham and it finished 2-0 at half time.
Southport came out in the secondhalf looking much better but 15 minutes later it was 3-0 after a penalty save was fumbled by Harrison.
Southport didnt give up though and managed to get a goal back, not from a striker but from a substitute defending midfielder Michael Powell.
The celebrations had barely finished when the Daggers scored again making the full time score 4-1.
Although there was no boo-ing today lots of people who had answered the Chairmans invite said they wouldnt be coming back.
My Man of the Match was Holland clearly the most experienced player we have. I dont see the point of Tait.

Southport 1 Aldershot 0

2007-02-17T17:33:00.000Z

Southport managed to hang on to a one goal lead and get the three points today thanks to a great goal by Liam Blakeman, some fine defending by Chris Lane and some excellent saves by Paul Harrison.
The away fans will be left with a long trip back to Mexico rueing the missed chances their side had.

Southport 2 Altrincham 1

2007-02-03T17:21:00.000Z

With only a couple of players who started the season with us laying today it was a new look Southport that took to the field. Sadly it was the same old problem that frustrated us. While Southport can pass the ball about and show some individual skill they lack a striker who will score goals. The first half was good but so was the Morecambe game so the fans on the terraces didnt get too carried away. There was little difference between the parttime Alty and full time Southport. Southport conceeded a penalty but Harrison showed he is a safe pair of hands and saved it. There were few shots on goal but somehow Southport managed to score and go in at half time one nil up with a goal from Baker.
In the second half Carl Baker's game improved and Southport managed to get a second goal from new boy Newby! It was then a matter of hanging on till the end of the match, which Southport did despite conceeding an odd goal. It got a bit desperate with 5 bookings in the last 20 minutes.
Alty had a good away following in good voice, always nice at Haig Ave.

It was a much needed 3 points, the season is still looking black but there is still hope.

Southport 1 F.G.R. 2

2007-01-27T17:34:00.000Z

The first home game for yet another new manager at Haig Ave. Three new players brought in to replace the ones the club let go with Cook.
The game didnt start well and Southport were soon a goal behind. With the fans discussing how terrible their team were it wasn't long before Southport were another goal down. With the team written off a well placed cross was met by Patterson in midair who vollied it into the goal past former Southport loan player Ryan Robinson. Patterson had only just come on as as sub 20 minutes into the first half and scored almost straight away.
Southport hit the bar once in the first half but rarely threatened.
In the second half Southport attacked but couldn't get a goal to salvage a point, the bar was hit a couple of times and FGR cleared their line once. In truth Southport didnt look like they would win or indeed get a draw.
With yet another new striker Southport still didnt look like they could finish. The new players need time to bed in, time Southport do not have.
On the positive side Patterson played well, but it has to be noted that the two best players were Baker and Lane.

Southport 3 (Three) Greys Athletic 1

2007-01-06T17:19:00.000Z

Today was Southports frist game since the chairman ditched the manager. Southport now needed a manager, new players and some points. I wasn't expecting Southport to do much today but after 1 minute 30 seconds Southport scored with a brilliant solo run from loan player Donnelly. Southport had two ex-strikers as managers and for once Southport were shooting at goal. Southport showed all the skill they did at th Morecambe game and once again went in at half time in the lead this time by 2 goals, the second coming from Grey. Southport could have had more goals.
After the 15 minutes of half time the doubts were back and Greys looked a lot more confident. But again 2 minutes after the restart Southport scored, with a great Carl Baker goal.
Southport held on despite a goal for Greys when Southports defence took time out to do a reonstruction of Athony Goremans Another Place.
Keeper Harrison had a great game and kept Southport in the points.

Southport1 Morecambe 2

2006-12-26T19:15:00.000Z

Haig Ave was as full as it has been for a long time and the crowd was in good voice home and away. Southport were the better side for most of the match. They passed the ball with ease and accuracy. Though the side still lacks a striker Southport attacked well and put the ball in the net 4 times, though only one goal counted. Morecambe had a player sent off and Souhport looked likely to hang on to a one goal lead. Whether it was the substitutions or too much turkey taking effect Southport lost momentum and Morecambe scored twice n quick succession.
What should have been the best performance for ages and a much needed 3 points ended in a loss and disappointment.

Southport 1 Droylsden 0

2006-12-16T17:16:00.000Z

Droylsden lined up with 4 ex-Port players including 2 strikers, Daly and Fearns, that Southport has yet to replace. Southport had plenty of possession and put lots of crosses into the box but there was no Southport striker there to meet them. Both Fearns and Daly were subbed in the second half without a goal. After a red card The Bloods were down to 10 men but there was little difference between the teams until the last 10 minutes with Southport pushing for the goal that eventually came from midfielder Carl "Cruiform" Baker who scored with only a couple of minutes to go.
Southport are playing some nice football but still lack a striker or two who can put the ball in the net. Sadly in the Conference National there is little chance of buying a player who can score 50 goals season.

Southport 1 Cambridge 2

2006-11-25T17:29:00.000Z

Football is a game of two halves, unfortunately. It was scrappy start wih the SFC side including two new loan signings Sean Doherty and Ciaran Donnolly and a couple of players returning from injury and suspension. Southport played well and passed the ball well. Although there were few if any shots on target Southport did score with a header from Tony Gray after a free kick on 30 minutes.
Cambridge's half time team talk must have been good as they came out playing better in the second half. Southport might have held on but for two defensive mistakes which gifted Cambridge an equaliser and then the match.
Southport had plenty of possession and got into the box onnumerous occasions but couldnt get the ball in the net. Typical Southport.
Robinson's kicking was poor today and he didnt command his area. The defence was lacking despite some good moments from Kirkup. Doherty is a very good player and would be an excellent signing.
Southport still miss a physical striker who can force a goal or a gifted striker who can get a goal with little effort. They also need an experience centre back to take control.

No sign of Dino today...

Southport 0- Kettering Town 1 FA CUP

2006-10-28T16:32:00.000Z

A game that summed up the season so far. The weather was miserable, so were the crowd. The PA was deafening again the crowd was silent, and couldnt even bring itself to boo the players off the pitch. Southport were poor in the first half, better in the second but could have played for 90 days and not scored. The highlight of the match was the fight in the Kettering goalmouth which saw their keeper and Kirkup being sent off.
At least we didnt drop any more league points today.

Will sacking the manager solve the problems that Haig Ave has had for over two seasons?

Southport 1 Stevenage 2

2006-10-10T21:14:00.000Z

Football really is a game of two halves. Southport dominated the first half and had countless shots on goal, but only managed to score one. Although the side was missing some players through injury it looked pretty good and played very well. Jackson had a good game (I had begun to wonder if he was still with us).
At the end of the second half the team got a standing ovation and were applauded off the pitch.

Second half Stevenage scored while Southport were still licking their fingers from the half-time oranges. And not long afterwards our make-shift defence let another in. Despite some good moments, Southport never looked like getting a win or a draw. Stevenage attacked well and looked far more confident. Lane was sent off for two yellows after a bad tackle.
The team that was applauded was boo-ed off at the end and were told they were shit.
Its a funny old game.

The away fans didnt stop singing all night, I could hear them before I had walked up to Haig Ave. They were only drowned out at the end by the cries of "SHIT" and "Boooo" from Southport "supporters" abusing their own players.

Southport 1 St. Albans 1

2006-10-07T15:39:00.000Z

I had expected a good attacking game from Southport following their mid-week trip to Oxford. Sadly the match wasnt worth the trip up from Liverpool. Southport sleepwalked through the first half. Only a cross from Baker and some long ball tactics with Dino looked threatening. Sadly Dino retired duringt he first half and the side was robbed of one of the few players who look like they have played football before. Without Dino it was all midfield and no threat. If Southport could pass to their own side as well as they gave the ball away they would have looked much better.
0-0 at half time and neither side looking pretty.
Hoolickin came on at half time but rather than use him at leftback or left wing he played in centre midfield, and though he always tries hard and is good on the ball he was not in a position that best suited him. Carl Baker looked something like the player of seasons past but still dallies on the ball and loses posession. Its hard to say whether he had a good game or everyone else had a bad one.
Southport rather sportingly allowed St Albans to score a goal and take the lead. St.Albans then got a penalty and a chance to make it two nil, luckily for Southport Clarke hit the crossbar. Southport then realsised the point of a football match and decided to get a goal of their own, which they did 5 minutes later when prolific striker Tony Gray got his second goal of the season.
After that the game did improve slightly with both sides looking for the winning goal. Hoolickin, Boyd and Blakeman all had shots and Robinson made some good saves.
It finished in a draw, the biggest cheer of the day was for the missed penalty.
Hard to pick a man of the match given the poor performance so Baker and Robinson can share the honours.

Southport 0 Exeter City 1

2006-09-30T16:17:00.000Z

The first half was very good, although Southport were playing a defensive 4141 formation we had the possession and all the chances. Southport should have been two-nil up at half time thanks to some comedy goal keeping from the timewasting clown in the City nets, and Southports Tony Gray missing a goal when it seemed easier to score.Nil Nil at half time, Exeter came out looking for a goal, but the match was still balanced. Exeter got the goal and Southport spent the rest of the game trying in vain to find the equaliser.
Good performances from Lane (back in the side and not sacked as the experts predicted), Robinson and Smith.

Cook

2006-09-29T09:34:00.000Z

There are those who want Paul Cook to be sacked from his job at Southport FC, I am not one of them. In fact I find this idea to be very stupid. Paul Cook has done a great job of getting rid of the part-time players of last season and building a new fulltime young side. Yes the side needs some more experience and the manager knows this. Cook has found some very talented young players, he obviously knows a good player when he sees one.
I think most of the reason why those who want him out do so is because they were in love with Liam Watson. Sounds odd but thats how the fans act. They have lost all reason and have very selective memories. When Watson left the fans sounded like they had lost the love of their life, and now they hate his replacement. It is also interesting to note that while these peopel are visible online, at the ground you do not hear the same comments in the majority of the crowd.

It is hard to know when the online fans are joking, some are even saying Brabin should be brought back as a player and even as manager! For me Brabin signing a fulltime playing contract was a sign that the club had little ambition in its fulltime direction. He was in his last days as a proffesional footballer and didnt have much of a future to offer the club.
Some even think that the club offered players contracts in an effort to force the players to leave the club. Like all internet conspiracy theorists they cannot back their cliams up with evidence and do not liek to be questioned. Why, I wonder, did the club bother to offer them contracts whent hey could have just sold them or paid them off? Answers on a postcard...

Some good news this week, Cook has brought a promising young player in to fill the gap in our defence left by the injured Lee. Again this has been the topic of debate with the online fans who think it is another ploy to rid the club of Chris Lane. They have also deliberately mis-quoted Cook to use his words against him. They complained when the club lacked players and now complain when it brings players in and also complain the one they brought in wasnt brought in for long enough.
But no one said football fans were rational.
I have every faith that Cook can bring in the players he needs and take the club forwards. Cook will be having another Q&A session for the fans, I wonder if his critics are planningt heir excuses not to attend already...

Southport 3 Crawley Town 1

2006-09-16T16:53:00.000Z

After telling everyone at work I was off to watch Southport play Canvey Island it was a nice surprise to see us play Crawley Town today. As the teams came out I felt a surge of optimism not often felt on the terraces of Haig Ave. that optimism was obviously shared by the team as they had the perfect start and a very nice goal from Alex Smith after 4 minutes. Southport passed well and had more skill with the ball than any Southport side for quite a while. Southport again beat the defence and Dino scored his first goal. The first half saw great performances from Dino, Hoolickin, Blakeman, Smith and Clancy. For the first time Lane was not the best player! Dino and Hoolickan will both be upset they didnt get more goals. Dino made it three with a penalty after some debate and appeals to the bench over who got to take it.
The second half wasn't quite as good, Crawley scored a goal met by silence and Southport played too deep backing off rather than challenging. Although Southport had some very good chances they failed to score. Crawley seemed to have hundreds of corners and Scully was able to do what he liked on the leftwing. He would be a brilliant signing for any team.
It all ended after a tense last 15 minutes 3-1.
MOTM Hoolickin.

Southport 2 Gravesend & Northfleet 2

2006-09-02T16:18:00.000Z

The rain stopped just in time for kick off, moving the kickoff to 3pm made sense after all. The first half was pretty terrible despite having all the goals. The first two goals came from well taken free kicks in an otherwise dire game. The next two came from some good football before half time. Booth worked hard and put the cross in for Powell to score.
Cook did plenty of shouting during the first half and no doubt did plenty during half time to get his team fired up. Powell was maybe too fired up and got himself sent off early in the second half, leaving the ten men of Southport to hold out for 45 minutes. As it happened though the second half was a vast improvement on the first. Southport played some good attacking football and didnt look like they missed the eleventh man. Booth had a great second half and Hoolickin showed he has a decent left foot. Neither side managed to get the winning goal and a draw was a fair result. Tony Gray came on as a sub in the second half and looks promising, although we still need an experienced player up front to get the goals.

Southport 1 Rushden & Diamonds 2

2006-08-26T16:12:00.000Z

The day started with some Guantanamo Bay style torture courtesy of the PA playing an endless version of You Spin Me Round (Like a Record) by Dead or Alive. Strikerless Southport played some good passing football in midfield but had nothing upfront. Southport had more shots than R&D until the deadlock was broken. The first goal came while Southport were frozen, rooted to the ground. The second from a free kick. Southport didnt look like they could get back into the game but when Baker was fouled in the box Southport got and scored a penalty.

Southport desperately need at least one striker.Midfield players cannot be relied upon to get all the goals or to play upfront in the strikers role. Jackson works hard but where are his goals?

Man of the Match: Chris Lane

Southport 0 Woking 0

2006-08-12T16:27:00.000Z

The first game of the season. After all the preseason talk it was good to get back to some football. Southport played well, there was some good attacking football and the passing was an improvement on last season. Ryan Robinson was very good and made some saves that wouldn't be out of place on the Match of the Day highlights, but Ryan wasn't the only player making great saves. Chris Lane, who remains part-time, put in a truely professional performance. My man of the match, Chris made some important tackles and kept the score at 0-0 with some goal line clearances. Dino is clearly a midfield player these days but he played some good football. Baker made some good tackles, but often dallied on the ball. Baker is my tip for being the first yellow to see a red card. Robbie Booth came on in the second half and looked like the player we had been told about when he moved to us from Chester. He had pace and wasnt scared to get stuck in. It might take me a while before I can comment on the rest of the team but I did notice Smith looking good and Hoolickin improved after looking lacking in confidence .
Southports best chance of a goal was a penlty taken by Boyd which hit the post.
Leaving the ground with the score 0-0 I couldnt help but think of the striker who left recently, Steve Daly.
Over all a positive performance.

Seasons Eve

2006-08-11T18:41:00.000Z

Twas the night before kick off... Today I bought the new home and away shirts. Very nice Nike shirts, as good as if not better than the England shirts. Well done to SFC for listening to the fans complaints about the rubbish kits. I am sure the team will appreciate running out in a new kit.
There have been a lot of chnages since the start of last season, the squad is almost completely different, the coaches and manager have changed, the attitude of the club has changed and SFC are now a fulltime proffesional club. Last season we went up only hoping to stay up, this time expectations and aspirations are higher. We still need players to come into the side but the club has successfully cleared out the part time players who couldnt commit and have brought in a squad that more than matched League sides in the preseason. the future is bright the future is yellow!

Steve Dickinson to leave

2006-08-09T14:24:00.000Z

Southport's number 1 is leaving the club. It is sad to see a real Southport legend leave the club. I wish him all the best for his future career. Also gone is Steve Daly. Last seasons hero has gone to be with Terry fearns at Droylsden.

Southport v Carlisle United: Hawks and High Hopes

2006-07-19T21:07:00.000Z

Team list for tonights game:

Steve Dickinson
Chris Lane
Kevin Houlihan
Michael Powell
Paul Martin
Mark Boyd
Carl Baker
Liam Blakeman
Tony Gray
Mark Jackson
Alex Smith
Francis Barry
Robbie Booth
Joe Fowler
Kevin Lee
Scott Stamps
Jordan Holmes
Steve Rowlands
and the gobby keeper from yesterday.

Southport lost the toss and had to play into the setting sun in the first half. In the first couple of minutes alone Dicko made a great save and Southport had a goal disallowed for off-side. Already it was a better match than yesterday. Steve Dickinson looked confident and assured in goal. It was great to see a Southport team pass the ball well, play positive football and have some good pace. Southport's hard work was rewarded with a penalty taken and scored by Mark Boyd and then to mark the new era of football at Haig Ave Southport scored two goals from set pieces, with Michael Powell from a corner and Tony Gray following a free kick. This was definately a new side.
The game was marred by the substitutions in the second half. The side lost shape and cohesiveness and fell apart. Carlisle were allowed back in and would have socred three in three minutes if they hadn't missed a penalty. With Dicko off the field Southport didnt look at all safe.
After a while Southport settled down and played better. Joe Fowler made a couple of good runs but both time shot straight at the keeper.
The end result was a fair one, Southport deserved a win. Everyone watching that will have high hopes for the new season (excpet maybe the away fans).

Southport v Oldham: The Heat and the Flies

2006-07-18T21:07:00.000Z

The Southport team for tonight was:

John Bagnall Keeper
Shaun Foster Def.
Lee Roache Def.
Dan Bromilow Def.
Matty McGinn Def.
Carl Osman Mid
Tom Fields Mid
Joe Fowler Fwd
Paul Brown Mid.
Paul Hart Fwd
Rob Dutton Fwd
Michael Powell Def

Phil Palethorpe Keeper
Shaun Tierney Mid
Kevin Lee Fwd
Steve Williams
David Brooks

The first half saw all the action, amongst the heat and the flies the game kicked off. Oldham were clearly the better side and despite a lot of shouting from Bagnall Oldham were allowed to score 4 goals with easy style. Matty McGinn, one of the few to have played last season had the best performance, he put some good free kicks and crosses in and managed to hit the post on the half hour mark. Tierney and Osman showed some skill and Powell looked confident when he came on. Chris Lane was on the pitch at half time.
The second half was quieter. Shaun Foster came on (again) for McGinn and looked disturbingly like the love child of Daly and Pickford...
Oldham got another goal before the end and a hot air balloon floated across the dusk sky.
the best players were McGinn, Powell and Tierney. Cook will have to decide if they are up to Conference standard or have the potential to be. Fingers crossed tomorrow night is a bit more competitive!

For Oldham Chris Hall (hat-trick) and Paul Edwards looked the best, I would be happy if the team playing in blue was going to be starting for Southport on August 12th.

Chorley and Crewe

2006-07-15T10:32:00.000Z

Southprot FC beat Chorley 4-0 and drew against a strong Crewe side 2-2. Although I didn't go to either match from the reports I have read it sounds like Paul Cook is heading in the right direction and will have a Conference standard side when the season starts. This being Southport some "supporters" are not happy, you would think we had lost both games and struggled to field a side. But they can be easily ignored even if they boo the team on the first day! There will always be those shouting abuse at the manager and players whatever the results are.

This is the start of a new era for Southport FC and one that looks increasingly positive!

The next games are midweek:

Jul 18 19.45 H Oldham Athletic
Jul 19 19.45 H Carlisle United

Hopefully if the traffic on the M6, M60 and M57 isnt too bad I will make it back from work to watch both of them. I am looking forward to see the new Southport FC in action.

Signings and leavings

2006-06-24T09:49:00.000Z

PLAYERS STAYING
STEVE DICKINSON: Staying as a part-time player
LIAM BLAKEMAN: Signed fulltime contract
CARL BAKER: Signed fulltime contract
ROBBIE BOOTH: 2 month trial contract/ fulltime contract
MATTY McGINN: 2 month trial contract
MICHAEL POWELL: signed fulltime contract
GARY BRABIN: Sign fulltime contract under Watson

PLAYERS DITHERING
CHRIS LANE: Been on holiday in the USA
STEVE DALY: Offered fulltime contract, wanted by Droylsden.

PLAYERS OUT
EARL DAVIS: Rejected fulltime contract, Gone to Hyde Fc
JEROME FITZGERALD: gone to Fleetwood Town
STEVE PICKFORD: Gone to Hyde FC
DOMINIC MORLEY : Moved to Burscough
KEVIN LEADBETTER: Moved to Burscough
NEIL ROBINSON: Moved to Burscough
NEIL FITZHENRY: Moved to Burscough & Wigan as a pysio
JAMIE SPEARE: Gone to Barrow

PLAYERS IN:
Tony Gray (striker) from Burscough
Mark Boyd (midfielder) from Accrington Stanley
Paul Martin (defender)
Kevin Lee (defender)
Joe Fowler (midfielder)
James Olsen left winger
Mark Jackson (striker)
Francis Barry (striker)
Dino Maamria (striker)

Coaching Staff In
John Durnin
Mike Marsh

Players Swap

2006-06-22T14:39:00.000Z

At last some news of transfers and Cooks first signing of a fulltime player. Dom Morley, Kevin Leadbetter and Neil Robinson have gone down the road to be with Chris Price and Liam Watson at Burscough. Burscough will have a great side when they start their season.

Fitzgerald has left to go to Fleetwood Town FC and Steve Pickford has offers from Hyde and Stalybridge.

Our newest player is Tony Gray who comes to Southport from Burscough in exchange for Leady, Morley and Robbo. He was their leading striker and must be good if he is worth swapping for 3 former Port favourites. Hopefully some cash came our way too!

I look forward to some new signings and have my fingers crossed for a few players to sign fulltime contracts this week or next.

Paul Cook Southport Manager

2006-06-14T15:33:00.000Z

At long last the new manager has been announced: Paul Cook. I am optimisitic about next season now, hopefully Cook can bring in some quality players and help tak the club forward.

"This is a great step for me. I have always wanted to manage and this opportunity has come at the right time."

Hopefully this is a longterm deal and there will be money available to allow him to do what he wants.

With the Watson era in the past now we can look forward to a new fulltime Southport squad.

Watson Joins Burscough

2006-06-13T16:11:00.000Z

It was no surprise that Liam has joined Burscough. He is perfectly suited to the club and I am sure both will benefit from the partnership. I look forward to our pre-season game against them and wish them well for the coming season.

Liam Leaves

2006-05-23T18:31:00.000Z

Liam Watson has resigned as manager of SFC. Liam turned things around for Southport when we were a Unibond side and built a good Conf North side and took us back up to the COnference National. Now it is time to get a Conference standard manager who can take the club forward and bring in the players the club needs. I guess this news explains the lack of signings. I hope that Steve Daly doesn't follow Watson out of the club, but I wouldnt be surprised if he did (assuming liam goes to another club).

The quality of the next manager will show the direction the club is heading in and the commitment the board has to the clubs progress.

Interesting times for SFC

Next Seasons Squad

2006-05-21T13:44:00.000Z

As there is no news on next seasons squad I thought I would offer my opinion.

Dicko: I hope he stays on as a part time player but I also hope we get a decent keeper who really can challenge him for a place and take over some day.

Lane: I hope he stays and goes full time, he is one of the fittest players and has experience which we need.

Fitzhenry: I think he is a level above his ability so will go on to play/work elsewhere

Earle Davis: Worth keeping as he is young enough to improve.

Gary Brabin: Full time fitness coach next season.

Fitzgerald: replaceable but I wouldnt mind him being given a chance of full time football. But last season we kept players who should have gone so maybe its best if he leaves now?

Matty McGinn: I would keep him, he has apce, crossing and can play in more than one position. Maybe not a starting player but a useful one.

Leadbetter: If he wants to stay and play then I would be happy for him to do so.

Morely: We need better in central midfield. byebye Dom

Pickford: In the last few games he showed he can still play at this level, he would be a great addition to a lower league side though.

Blakeman: Keep him, hopefully we have the coaches to help him improve.

Baker: as above.

Daly: My hero, has to stay.

Robinson: He had a great start to the season but looked like a lazy get for quite a few games. I would replace him if a Legaue or Conference striker was available.

Booth: Keep, wasnt given a chance until late in the season. Didnt impress for the reserves but after playing for Burscough he did enough for Southport to make me think he is worth keeping.

Wanted list: players for all positions!

0506 Season DVD

2006-05-19T14:37:00.001Z

I bought the dvd of last seasons goals. I wont grumble about the quality or price, they were to be expected! Not sure about the idea of showing the goals twice, some of the goals we gave away were shocking defending having them on twice makes us look twice as crap!

It is a bit of a surprise to see Robinson and Leadbetter being so prominent in the earlier games. And of course Krief is there giving 100% with old man Lynch.

Its not a happy season to watch, we were dreaful for quite a lot of the season, even the very edited highlights cant make us look good!

Still no sign of any signings...and only one player has left. Byebye Speare!

Seasons End Cold Turkey

2006-05-09T16:26:00.000Z

It doesn't take long before the fans want another fix of SFC. The BBC headlines are enough to get the imagination going: "Six players released by Gravesend" Seven let go in Harriers clearout" "Stevenage set for huge clear-out" "Cambridge manager releases trio" " Aldershot boss Brown wields axe" " Pair released by Accrington boss" etc It seems like there is a multiude of jobless Conference footballers but no word from haig Ave about players coming or going.

I had been looking forward to the possibility of a new strip for next season. the 05/06 hoem strip was a cheap and nasty thing but it looks like we will be watching it again next season. I wont be buying one. The away strip (which was quite nice) was supposed to be last seasons ground centenary home strip but the fans voted against it and it was never used in the ground it was celebrating. ther eis apossibility of a new away strip, knowing the club it will be a white versionof the horrible home strip.

I wonder what changes there will be to Haig Ave next season. I new PA? The infamous new floodlights? More WW2 coastal defences mascarading as catering and hospitality facilities? (Actually the Nazis had much better design than the Haig Ave bunkers) We shall see!

As for the players, anyone and everyone could be replaced!

We are Staying Up!

2006-04-26T08:51:00.000Z

I thought I would celebrate Southport FC staying up in the Conference National by starting my 2006-7 blog early!

We done to the team, I had my doubts and had given up at times but we managed to hold on and stay up. The club just needs to work hard to get back to where they were a few years ago under Mark Wright. If Accrington Stanely can get back into the league, Southport can get back up the Conference table.

But before all that there is the World Cup!