A late goal for Southport sealed a 1-0 victory against AFC Liverpool to see them into the Liverpool Senior Cup semi-finals.
The match was the first ever competitive game between the two sides, and Southport’s 2,500th non-league game in all competitions.
Both teams had early chances, with AFC Liverpool forward Tom Croughan heading a shot straight at Southport goalkeeper Tony McMillan in the ninth minute.
Four minutes later, Southport’s Connor Woods had a shot saved by AFC Liverpool goalkeeper Jack McGovern after gliding into the box past two defenders.
In the 18th minute, Croughan found himself one-on-one with McMillan, but the Southport goalkeeper made a great save.
Southport had the better of the chances as the first half drew to a close, but the score remained 0-0.
Southport continued to create the better chances in the second half.
In the 64th minute, an Adam Anson header flashed over the bar following a Southport corner.
Eleven minutes later Southport substitute Jordan Archer found himself in on goal, however a heavy touch allowed McGovern to save.
Southport got the breakthrough they needed in the 88th minute when defender Chris Doyle headed home from a Charlie Munro corner.
The goal was enough to ensure a victory for Southport despite late pressure from AFC Liverpool.
The win sees Southport through to the semi-finals as they look to retain the Liverpool Senior Cup.
In the manager’s words…
Speaking after the game, Southport manager Liam Watson said: “We’re pleased we’ve got through, we’re pleased we’ve won and kept a clean sheet and we’re pleased we’re into the semi-finals.
“It doesn’t matter who you play against, winning’s a habit and losing’s a habit. And if we can keep a winning run that’s great.
“We’re dominant from set plays and we defended them really well tonight. I always thought we’d nick something from a set piece which we tend to in league fixtures.”
Southport’s next game is a trip to Buxton in the National League North.
AFC Liverpool travel to West Didsbury and Chorlton in the North West Counties Football League.
