At a time of the year when narrow margins often make a big difference, Southport left Ewan Fields with thoughts of how telling the width of a crossbar might prove to be. Twice in the closing stages of a match that should have yielded maximum points, the Sandgrounders were foiled by the same piece of woodwork and, with only three games remaining, the incidents could well represent defining moments.
For the second successive match, the Sandgrounders produced a 1-1 draw away from home, but emotions at the final whistle were in marked contrast to those at Fleetwood on Monday. Having now used up their game in hand on Tamworth, Southport will have to hope the league leaders crack despite missing the chance to fully turn up the heat.
That Liam Watson’s side were denied by the bar in such fashion was indicative of a 15-minute period in which they missed a succession of chances. Having dictated possession during the first half without really excelling, Southport conceded an equalising goal in the 73rd minute, before being made to pay for their failure to finish during a chaotic ending. For the most part it was a match of few opportunities, but despite carving out the more clear-cut openings, Southport’s decision to sit back invited the pressure that resulted in them conceding the sloppiest of goals.
Nevertheless, the fact that they have at least closed the gap three points on Tamworth still means the season could end in memorable fashion. Powell put the visitors in front on 17 minutes, slamming home a loose ball from Robbie Booth’s corner, but even though they were firmly in control, the Sandgrounders failed to turn the screw. Neil Prince had forced the important corner with a stinging shot, but Southport’s only other chances in a comfortable first half were a Powell header and a low drive from Ashley Winn, both of which missed the target.
Early in the second period, Booth’s near post shot was well saved by goalkeeper Craig Dootson, whose opposite number made a costly blunder to gift Hyde’s equaliser. Karl Munroe’s deep free kick appeared harmless until it was spilled by Ross Atkins under pressure from substitute Neil Tolson, allowing the player-manager to roll the ball into an empty net. A number of nervy moments followed for the Sandgrounders and, while both sides can point to good chances to have secured full points in an end-to-end finish, Southport were certainly the more profligate in front of goal.
Shaun Whalley was the first to hit the bar from an Alan Moogan lay-off, before Ciaran Kilheeney failed to find a way past Dootson with three glorious chances having opened up the Hyde defence on each occasion. Adam Flynn, whose resilient performance showed why he is a worthy recipient of the player of the season award, sent a thumping header against the woodwork in the second minute of added time, leaving Southport to contemplate what might have been.