Sunday Senior 1st team

Sunday 1st team started their defence of the Southport Premier Division title with a game against newly promoted Southport Albion at Carr Lane. On probably one of the smallest pitches in the league Albion defended deep letting S&A have all the ball first half. Ryan Taylor with a lovely piece of skill brought a superb save from Albion keeper Slade while Wincer also got in behind to cut the ball back which somehow went in-between Charlie Gray and Kristian Solaru with the empty goal gaping in front of them. Pilkington also shot over just on half time from a tight angle.

The second half started in similar fashion with Lamont denied by Slade again while Lamont also went close with an effort just over. Changes were made with Cunliffe and Langley introduced but the game became more scrappy with Albion growing in confidence of a result. They had a great chance to score but for a brilliant save from Josh Walker. S&A kept plugging away and patience was rewarded when a free kick was swung in for Spencer from five yards to head straight against Slade with Lamont on hand from close range to score the rebound.

Rob Lamont was then denied a second goal when a lovely move saw his shot hit the bar and appear to be a few yards over the line but ref Simms couldn't see from his angle. Cunliffe was then denied through on goal by Slade again as he looked to kill the game off.

Credit to Southport Albion who have moved up two divisions and played very well on their debut game in the Premier Division. Next Sunday will see the Sunday 1st team make the long trip to Bury in the 1st round of the Lancashire Sunday Trophy.
Gareth Jones (Manager)