New boss but same fate for Port

By James Houghton · Aug 20, 2023

SOUTHPORT were hoping to mark the start of a new era with their first points of the season after parting ways with Liam Watson, but Boston United were not going to go down easily.New manager Andy Burgess markedly changed Southport’s playing style, having the Sandgrounders playing out from the back. But that change would cost his side as Matt Thomson was dispossessed too easily in his own half, allowing Boston to counter, with Keaton Ward smashing a shot into the roof of the net.Southport looked strong in the second half, with headers from Connor Heath and Harry Flowers being saved and going narrowly wide respectively.With time running out for Southport to find an equaliser, emotions got the better of the Sandgrounders bench, with goalkeeping coach Tony McMillan being dismissed for dissent and manager Burgess and kit man Hamish Morton being cautioned for the same offence.But it was Boston who would seal it after Martin Woods was brought down by David Morgan with Jimmy Knowles converting from the penalty spot.Anson’s late glancing header from a throw drew a good save from Gregory but Port struggled in search of a lifeline as they retained their spot at the foot of the table.STAR MAN: Jimmy Knowles (Boston United)ENTERTAINMENT: ★★★★★