Beesley reflects on magnificent Southport win

Warrington Town manager Mark Beesley says he is proud of his players for their display against Southport – but has warned the group not to look too far ahead.

It was a National League North debut to remember, with Sean Williams, Luke Duffy, Bohan Dixon and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts helping fire the Yellows to the top of the pile on goal difference after the opening round of fixtures.

It leaves them in a good position ahead of back-to-back home games, starting on Saturday against Blyth Spartans, but Beesley says there is plenty more hard work to be done.

Speaking post-match, he said: “It’s a good start to the season. We’re pleased to come to a ground like this, score four and keep a clean sheet.

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“It’s a good achievement, but it’s just the first game, a start – that’s it.

“We’ve got some good players and built a squad for competing in the league below, and we felt that most, if not all of them, could step up, and they proved that today.

“It’s important that we back it up now, get a good two training sessions in and look at the weekend.”

Beesley also hailed his attack-minded players for their quality of performance.

With Josh Amis absent through injury and suspension and Jordan Buckley named on the bench, former Southport duo Connor Woods and Buckley-Ricketts were tasked at different points with leading the line, and the latter rounded off Saturday’s comprehensive win with a well-taken finish against his former club.

“We’ve got quick players on the counter-attack and scored some great goals in the second half,” Beesley added.

“Because we defended really well in the first half and got our noses in front, we could exploit spaces because teams have to come out [and attack].”

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Over 400 Yellows supporters made the trip to Haig Avenue for the Yellows’ debut in the National League North, many of whom made their presence felt in the terrace behind the goal.

Beesley paid tribute to those fans, saying: “We’ve had over 400 supporters here today, and you could clearly hear them.

“It’s testament to where we are as a club. Everyone should be proud of where we are at this point. We’ve got to keep pushing, and supporters have to keep pushing and stay with us.

“It won’t always be 4-0 away from home, but I hope they’ll enjoy it tonight.”