Slew Double Sparks Second-Half Revival for Southport

Southport fought back from two goals down to earn a point against Kidderminster Harriers after a transformed second-half performance triggered by decisive half-time changes from Neil Danns.

Kidderminster controlled the first period and scored twice before the break. Zanda Siziba gave the visitors the lead on 18 minutes, finishing a move that reflected their bright start. Their second arrived on 36 minutes when Amari Morgan-Smith charged down Chris Renshaw’s attempted clearance, the ball rebounding past the goalkeeper and into the net. It was a moment that left Southport with a steep challenge and summed up a half in which Kidderminster regularly worked their way into threatening positions.

Recognising the need for a major shift, Danns made three substitutions at the interval. Dan Pike replaced Ted Lavelle, Malakai McKenzie came on for Danny Lloyd and Dylan Dwyer took the place of Callum Edwards. The changes immediately lifted Southport’s energy and structure, allowing them to compete far more effectively than in the opening forty-five minutes.

The response arrived on 57 minutes when Jordan Slew pulled a goal back, giving the home side renewed belief. Seven minutes later Slew struck again, equalising on 64 minutes and turning the feel of the match completely. The double continued his excellent recent form and provided the platform for Southport to push for a possible winner.

There was a setback when Pike, who had been introduced only at half time, appeared to suffer another injury and was replaced on 70 minutes. His withdrawal gave new signing Edy Maico his debut, the Portuguese forward entering the game for the final twenty minutes.

The closing stages were balanced. Southport continued to press with confidence following their dramatic turnaround, while Kidderminster tried to reassert the control they had enjoyed earlier. Both sides had spells of possession without creating a decisive final opening, and the match ended level.

Southport will be encouraged by the character shown after a poor first half and by the impact of the half-time substitutions. At the same time, the opening period again highlighted the inconsistency that has been evident across recent weeks, contrasting sharply with the stronger displays against Hereford, Buxton and Chester. Slew’s goals and the lift provided by the reshaped second-half side were the clear positives as Southport moved up to nineteenth place.