South Shields 1 Southport 0. Match report

An 83rd minute goal for our hosts was the only difference between the sides after a fine perfomance from a weary Southport side.

Taking your chances when they come your way is what it’s all about and we were left to rue not taking them in the first half when Danny Lloyd, Luke Griffiths and DJ Pedro spurned great opportunities and could have seen a shock result on the cards.

Shields also missed a great chance in the first period as the sides went in level at the break.

We expected to be under the cosh more in the second half as with a strong wind behind them the home side pressed more and we created very little in the second half but always posed a threat.

Jordan Keane and Tom Moore were outstanding at the back for Southport and didn’t deserve to be on the losing side.

Just when it looked like it was heading for a 0-0 double against the league leaders they grabbed the late goal to seal the win.

It was disappointing but after a touigh ten days of travel the lads can hold their heads high and look forward to two home games starting with third placed Merthyr Town on Saturday.