Radcliffe secured their first away points of the season with a 2-0 victory over Southport, ending a five-match winless streak and moving up to 23rd place in the league standings. The match took place on Sunday as both teams sought to improve results in the early stages of the campaign.
Southport began strongly, creating early opportunities including a close-range effort from Ted Lavelle that narrowly missed the net. The home side increased pressure around the 30-minute mark and earned a penalty appeal, which was denied by the officials. Radcliffe weathered the pressure and responded on the attack, eventually taking the lead just before halftime.
Michael Afuye delivered a precise cross into the six-yard box, where Finley McAllister rose to head the ball home for Radcliffe’s third away goal of the season. The opener provided a boost to Mark Duffy’s side heading into the break.
The second half was marked by frequent stoppages, featuring multiple substitutions and a handful of yellow cards. Substitute Daniel Ogwuru forced a save when a through ball from Douglass Lukjanicks set him up in a one-on-one situation, but the striker’s attempt was off target.
As Southport pressed forward in search of an equalizer, Radcliffe increased their advantage. A well-placed cross found Tyler James at the back post, and the forward converted confidently to double the visitors’ lead. The goal effectively secured the three points for Radcliffe, who looked composed in preserving their lead through the closing stages.
The win provides relief for Radcliffe after a difficult run of form, while Southport will look to bounce back in coming fixtures.
