Southport and Ainsdale Ama 2 vs 2 Cherrybrook FC

On a bitterly cold day, Southport & Ainsdale Reserves entertained Cherrybrook FC in the first game of 2025.

The pitch was in good condition but the value of wearing studs was borne out with a number of players slipping in the early stages.

Both teams took a while to settle, but Cherrybrook gradually took control without creating any clear cut chances.

In fact the opening goal came against the run of play when a defensive error led to Southport & Ainsdale taking the lead after 25 mins. The ball being lobbed over Ben Finch from about 20 yards.

The visitors pressed forward for an equaliser but only had a couple of long range efforts before HT.

However, a crisp start to the second half saw the Cherries come out firing and a well worked goal saw Tom Holland slot in the equalizer in the 48th minute.

Onwards and upwards they thought, but the home team scored a scrappy second within a minute to go back in front 2-1.

Tommy Harban gave the manager plenty to think about with a good second half display capped with a headed equalizer in the 88th minute.

It was no more than the visitors deserved having pressed for a goal for the last 20 mins and creating a number of chances.

All in all a draw was probably a fair result and its blown away a few cobwebs after playing the first competitive game for two months.