Southport visit Stockport County on Saturday with their participation in the first round proper of the FA Trophy at stake.

It is not the easiest draw that Kevin Davies’ side could have been handed, having been dispatched 6-0 at Edgeley Park in September, but this team is certain to feature several changes from the one that was so easily put to the sword that day.

One potential alteration is the introduction of Jason Gilchrist, who became the club’s record signing on Saturday – a highlight on a day that featured very few otherwise.

The Sandgrounders simply have to improve if they are to get a positive result this weekend, having looked shaky in defence and lacking conviction in attack against Blyth Spartans last week.

The FA Trophy may have come at a welcome time for Kevin Davies as he searches for his first win in football management.

The form book often goes out of the window in knockout competition, and after a miserable run of form in the league the cup may just be the distraction that can rejuvenate a Southport side that is in desperate need of a confidence boost.

By Christy Byrne