PREVIEW | Trip To The Coasters

After a difficult run of league form, Southport will turn their attention to the Buildbase FA Trophy this weekend as they travel to AFC Fylde.

A 2-0 defeat to York City at the Pure Stadium last Saturday was a fourth loss in a row for Liam Watson’s side, who will be looking to recover from the recent run of results.

A cup run could certainly be something that can spark a revival and help them to return winning ways.

The Port’s route to this stage of the competition has seen them defeat two teams from lower leagues, with a late goal needed against Colne in a 3-2 victory in the Third Round Qualifying.

Meanwhile a replay was needed against South Shields last time out in the competition, with Watson’s side eventually confirming their spot in the second round with a 3-1 win.

It is now chance for the Port to pit themselves against higher-rankled opposition. Fylde got their cup run off to a good start with a 1-0 victory against Curzon Ashton, with Danny Rowe getting the winner at Mill Farm.

This will be the first competitive fixture between the sides.

Last time out, the Coasters were in Emirates FA Cup action against Premier League opponents, Sheffield United.

After going two behind, Jordan Williams did snatch a late consolation at Bramall Lane.

In the Vanarama National League this season, the Coasters have found themselves struggling towards the bottom of the table after reaching the play-off final last term. They did finish the season with silverware, lifting the FA Trophy after beating Leyton Orient.

Their last win in the league was a one-goal victory against Wrexham at the end of November, with three defeats and three draws since.

After the departure of Dave Challinor back in October, former Morecambe boss Jim Bentley has been at the helm.

With both teams out of form, they’ll be looking for something positive to their 2020s finally up and running.

Written by Amos Wynn