It was an explosive statement of intent, a marker laid down with unmistakable force. Southport mean business!
From start to finish, from back to front, the Sandgrounders recorded a performance that oozed class and confidence, and stunned the side that remains top of the Nationwide North.
But if Southport can capitalise on their four game advantage and consistently reproduce annihilations such as this, very few sides will be capable of halting the dream of a Nationwide Conference return.
Full credit must go to boss Liam Watson who switched his tactics to produce a scintillating showing and an equally impressive result. Steve Pickford, in a preferred midfield role, netted after just four minutes, while the recalled Steve Daly added a second prior to half-time. Skipper Pickford completed his brace on 47 minutes, before Kevin Lynch and Kevin Leadbetter added gloss to the scoreline..
After exacting some timely revenge for September’s 3-1 reverse at Haig Avenue, consistency was to be the key for the Sandgrounders, for whom 18 ‘cup finals’ remain.