Match Report – Non-League Paper – 07/01/2024

Walton’s header earns Port a point

The Non-League Football Paper

By Charlie Barnett

SOUTHPORT showed off their survival spirit as they scored twice in the final ten minutes to claim a point from Gloucester City. Despite being 2-0 down in the final stages, the Sandgrounders may even feel they deserved more from the game with City keeper Zach Jeacock pulling off several spectacular saves. City grabbed their first of the afternoon after Danny Wright used his strength well to dispossess Matt Thomson in his own box before laying the ball to Ben Beresford, who found the far corner with ease. Just past the hour, Jeacock was called upon when Harry Flowers returned a deep corner into the mixer where it was Brad Holmes’ turn to have his header tipped over before Ismael Hmani was denied. The game looked to be wrapped up when Gloucester sub Elliot Durrell eased his way through Southport’s midfield before unleashing a vicious effort past Chris Renshaw from range. However, from that point the hosts struggled with the immense pressure applied by Southport and were punished for poor game management. Richie Bennett scored from a rebound before Tyler Walton got on the end of Jack Doyle’s cross to head home in front of the travelling supporters to steal a vital point in a relegation six-pointer. STAR MAN: Zach Jeacock (Gloucester) ENTERTAINMENT: ★★★★★