Liam Watson: Southport deserved second-round place

Posted Sunday, November 11, 2018 by PA

Liam Watson believes his Southport players got their just rewards for taking the bull by the horns in their 2-0 FA Cup first-round win over Boreham Wood.

Goals in either half from Dean Winnard and Jason Gilchrist meant that the Sandgrounders, of the National League North, sealed their progress into the second round at the expense of opposition from the division above.

Watson commended his troops for seizing the initiative to full effect.

“We have looked a much better side in recent weeks, and that has shown in the performance and result,” said the Southport chief.

“We wanted to attack from kick-off. We did not want to sit back and let them come on to us, and that worked well.

“Everyone was excellent, including the players that came on – I’m so pleased for them all.”

Winnard headed home from Jack Sampson’s corner in the first half while Gilchrist rose highest to head home Bradley Bauress’ deep free-kick with 20 minutes to go.

Wood boss Luke Garrard had few complaints with the scoreline.

“If you were a neutral at the game, you would not be able to tell who is the National League side,” he said.

“Southport were by far the superior side all over the park and we did not play to our levels but that is because Southport did not allow us to play.

“They had a bite and a hunger to get into the second round and now they get the luxury of going through, and it is fully deserved.”