The prospect of a first ever Wembley appearance was the incentive for Southport as they travelled to Slough Town for the first leg of the FA Trophy Semi Final.
The absence of Phil Bolland and Phil Horner due to suspension and Andy Whittaker and Phil Jones due to injury were big blows to manager Paul Futcher but he knew that whatever side he named would be 100% committed given the prize on offer. Futcher had hoped to be able to call upon striker Franny Powell who had been back in training after a 19 month lay-off following a leg break, but he had suffered a reaction and the 20 year old had been forced to seek specialist advice. The one piece of good news was that Brian Butler returned after serving a one match ban himself.
Despite losing twice to Slough in the League, Futchers 13th placed side only sat 6 points behind their 8th placed opponents and were confident of their chances after two close games.
With the injuries and suspensions young defender Joe Morgan, 19, was called upon but would himself be ruled out for the two weeks that follow due to a football trip to America with his college.
SLOUGH TOWN 0 – 1 SOUTHPORT
Competition: FA Trophy / SF1L
Date: 28/03/1998
Attendance: 2106
Southport Line-Up: Billy Stewart, Andy Farley, Paul Futcher, Tim Ryan, Brian Butler, Ged Kielty, Dave Thompson, Kevin Formby, David Gamble, Stephen Morris, Brian Ross,
Subs: Paul Clarke, Joe Morgan (Dave Thompson), Paul Mitten (Stephen Morris),
Goals: Stephen Morris
Match Details
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