Southport v Boston United: Unbeaten rivals to go head-to-head at Haig Avenue

Jordan Thewlis nets against Southport last season.

Two of the National League North’s early season pacesetters will meet on Saturday as Southport host Boston United.

The Sandgrounders and Pilgrims are two of the seven remaining unbeaten sides in the division, and both teams will be eager for that record to continue at they face off at Haig Avenue (KO 3pm).

“They've been in quite a long time in terms of pre-season and training for long periods, so I think in terms of organisation they’ll be difficult to play against,” said United boss Craig Elliott.

“It’ll be a difficult game, but as I’ve said before, they’ll all be difficult in their own way.”

Fifth-place Southport and Boston, fourth in the table, have both picked up seven points from three matches.

At home, Southport have drawn 0-0 with Hereford and beaten Chorley 1-0, also winning 4-0 at Blyth Spartans.

The Pilgrims kicked off the league season with wins against Leamington (4-0) and AFC Telford United (3-2) before Tuesday’s draw against Guiseley, which saw the Lions grab a stoppage-time equaliser.

Boston have won their previous three meetings with Southport.

Last season Andi Thanoj (two) and Luke Shiels secured a 3-1 win at Haig Avenue, with Brad Abbott and Jordan Thewlis netting in a 2-0 home win.The previous campaign saw Jake Wright, Gavin Allott and Nicky Walker on target in a 3-2 victory in the North West.

Southport have Matt Challoner, who featured for the Pilgrims in last season’s play-offs despite already signing for them, in their squad.

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