Exeter City recorded an efficient away-day win to lift them to within touching distance of a promotion play-off spot.

Despite first half pressure from the home side, Exeter managed to grab the winner early in the second half.

Paul Buckle secured victory for the visitors in the 60th minute with a 25-yard right-footed strike after Adam Stansfield had supplied the ball.

The win moves Exeter up into tenth spot with 20 points, while the loss leaves Southport sitting one place above the relegation zone with ten points.

Full match report will be online on Sunday


Southport: 1. Ryan Robinson, 2. Chris Lane, 15. Stephen Rowland, 286. Dan Kirkup, 11. James Olsen, 10. Dino Maamria, 7. Carl Baker (4. Michael Powell ’74), 6. Mark Boyd (8. Liam Blakeman ’50), 19. Joe Fowler (22. Awen Douglas ’63), 17. Alex Smith, 9. Tony Gray.
Unused Substitutes: 12. John Bagnall, 3. Lee Hoolickin.

Referee: A. Haines

Attendance: 1,163





Southport's new signing Daniel Kirkup warms up for the match


Kirkup in action


0-1: Paul Buckle scores


Exeter players celebrate



Exeter City players Jon Richardson and Adam Stansfield arrive at Haig Avenue 13:50pm and are welcomed by a number of fans