Southport will be looking to build on their first league win of the season as they travel to the North East to face Blyth Spartans this weekend.



A first half Dylan Vassallo free-kick saw Liam Watson’s pick up three points in a 1-0 victory over Chorley, following on from a 0-0 draw against Hereford in the Vanarama National League North opener.

The Sandgrounders will be looking to build a winning run this weekend as they head on the road for the first time this season.

Opposition:

Saturday’s opponents, Blyth, have had a start to forget, with only one point in their opening three games.

They started the league season with a 4-0 away defeat to Guiseley, before getting their only point in the board with a 1-1 draw against Telford, thanks to a late Paul Blackett equaliser.

The Spartans leaky defence continued to be a problem last weekend, as they were hammered 6-1 by Gloucester City.

These problems at the back are a continuation from last season, where they conceded 78 goals in 33 games.

Due to the premature end to the campaign, Blyth survived despite being sat in 21st place.

As well as their problems in the league, The Spartans have also exited the Emirates FA Cup, following a 1-0 loss to Marske United.

The man in charge:

Following Lee Clark’s dismissal at the start of 2020, Michael Nelson has been at the helm as a player manager.

The 40-year-old took over the role in February, a few weeks after joining the club as a defensive addition.

He has previous experience of being part of a coaching set up, but this is his first time in the top job.

The centre backs playing career saw him represent teams including Norwich, Kilmarnock and Hibernian.

Previous Meetings:

Southport were victories in both meetings between the sides last season.

Goals from Zehn Mohammed and David Morgan saw a 2-0 Port victory at The Pure Stadium.

Meanwhile, Morgan was on the scoresheet again in the reverse fixture, this time alongside Ryan Astles, Brad Bauress and Jack Sampson, in a thumping 4-1 win just before Christmas.

Final Thoughts:

Realistically there is no reason why Watson’s side can’t come away with another big victory this weekend.

The Port attack will be looking for a game where they click into place, and this could be the perfect one for it to happen.

Written by Amos Wynn