The Blue Square North title race is still far from over as Alfreton Town became party-poopers against leaders Southport on Tuesday night.
A bumper crowd of 2,021 arrived at Haig Avenue in expectation of witnessing a victory that would have given Port the title, regardless of Saturday`s final games involving them and second-placed Fleetwood Town.
Provided the appeal lodged by Fleetwood against the expunging of Farsley Celtic’s results is unsuccessful today (Wednesday), the destination of the title still remains in Port`s control as they lead by a point. They travel to Eastwood Town on the final day, while Fleetwood host Stalybridge Celtic – neither being easy games for the championship contenders.
It started well enough for Southport as they took a 19th minute lead through a Matty McGinn penalty.
But just 6 minutes later Paul Clayton equalised for the impressive Reds, whose Jack Moult put them in front 8 minutes into the second half.
Clayton then made sure Saturday`s final games for the top two aren`t meanlingless when he notched number three 8 minutes from time to prevent any thoughts of a Port comeback.
The win will also keep Alfreton in good spirits ahead of the play-offs, and most Southport fans left Haig Avenue impressed with the visitors` display.
Both of the leaders` opponents on the final day were beaten on Tuesday night.
Eastwood went down to a comprehensive 3-0 home defeat to neighbours Ilkeston Town in front of a decent crowd of 754 – decent considering neither side had much to play for apart from local pride.
Nialle Rodney gave the Robins a 12th minute lead that Amari Morgan-Smith doubled from the penalty spot right on the stroke of half time.
Gary Ricketts then made the outcome beyond doubt when he made it 3-0 on the hour-mark.
Stalybridge, meanwhile, went down to a 2-1 defeat at Northwich Victoria, whose Jon Newby gave them a 39th minute lead.
Brian Dutton added a second on 59 minutes, with Gareth Jennings reducing the deficit 10 minutes later.
