Southport v Rochdale

Heavy Southport pressure had the Rochdale defence in difficulties. Holmes was inches wide with a header, and Morton, in the Rochdale goal, held shots by Prescott, Drury, and Holmes.

In Rochdale’s first raid Anders hit the bar and Gribben’s drive over from the rebound.

Holmes put Southport ahead with a terrific drive from just inside the area.

Half-time: Southport 1, Rochdale 0.

Although handicapped by an injury to left half Hilton, Southport continued to dominate and the Rochdale goal had many narrow escapes.

Morton made a brilliant save when he got his fingertips to a close-range drive by Drury. Rochdale never looked like getting an equaliser. Beadnell, the home leader, beat all opposition in an electrifying run only to drive wide.

Result: Southport 1, Rochdale 0.