This the first Association match of the season in Southport, was played in Scarisbrick New-road on Saturday. The ground was in splendid order, and some fast play was witnessed. The Rovers were over matched, being defeated by four goals to nil, the tackling and kicking of the Southport backs preventing any formidable attack. For the winners, the forwards worked well together, and at times passed cleverly, seeing that this was the first time they had played together. The visiting team turned up short but found a very able substitute in the “Major” from Mobberley. The goals were scored by Briggs, Art Dalby, and J. Coleman (2).

(Southport Visiter, 26^th September 1882)