Thewlis winner moves Boston United up to third following Southport victory

Jordan Thewlis grabbed the only goal off the game as Boston United moved up to third.

The striker's 14th minute effort proved the difference at Haig Avenue as the Pilgrims secured their fourth-straight win over Southport.

Three points moved United up to third in the National league North table as their unbeaten start to the season stretched to five matches.

Manager Craig Elliott made one change to the side which drew 1-1 against Guiseley in midweek, Andi Thanoj - who scored twice and chipped in with an assist during last season’s 3-1 win at Haig Avenue - getting the nod over Connor Dimaio.

The Port created the first chance of the afternoon as Marcus Carver got the better of Luke Shiels before his drive struck the crossbar.

But it was the Pilgrims who opened the scoring, Jordan Thewlis netting his third in four games as he cut in from the left as saw his effort squeeze past Dan Hanford at his near post.

Further efforts from Carver and Nicky Morgan failed to his the target for the hosts while two Thanoj efforts at the other end suffered the same fate as United held a slim interval lead.

The second half began with Matt Tootle called upon to head clear as Matt Challoner's cross looked destined for Carver at the back post.

For United, Thanoj bent an effort just wide of Hanford's far past following a lively break.

Hanford was called upon to keep his side in the contest with a marvellous save to deny Jordan Burrow on the volley, before gathering Thanoj's 20-yarder at the second attempt.

United learnt their lesson from Tuesday's late sucker punch, the defence - who had looked solid and mostly untroubled throughout the afternoon - standing firm for the second clean sheet of the season.

SOUTHPORT: Hanford, Oliver (Anson 90), Doyle, Benjamin, Morgan, Watson, Carver, Challoner, Ali, Winnard (Vassallo 63), Bainbridge; Subs (not used): Woods, McMillan.

UNITED: Fitzsimons, Tootle, Duxbury, Platt, Garner, Shiels, Thanoj, Green, Burrow, Thewlis (Preston 80), Hawkridge; Subs (not used): Crook, Warren, Dimaio, Archer, Preston.

REF: Matt Corlett.