Coleman boost for Southport

Southport v Gateshead

Southport, chasing a place in the first round proper of the F.A. Trophy, made the early running but without seriously troubling the Gateshead defence, writes Albert Draper.

Gateshead took control for a time and Bell struck a fierce free kick from the edge of the area just over while King put away for a corner a dangerous cross from Henderson.

Back came Southport for McCormack to head just wide from a corner.The game developed in a see-saw struggle. Sturgeon and Mutch both had efforts blocked for Southport while at the other end Evans had to fling himself sideways to deny Robson.

After 37 minutes Southport went ahead. Quinn began the move which was carried on by Fagan before COLEMAN prodded the ball home from close range.

Then Coleman was desperately unlucky with a glancing header from Fagan’s cross which hit the post.

Half-time: Southport 1, Gateshead 0.