Southport have been installed as new favourites for the Nationwide North title after condemning Nuneaton Borough to their first defeat of the season.

A Terry Fearns strike in the 48th minute sealed another impressive victory for Liam Watson’s Sandgrounders, as they move to within 2 points of leaders Alfreton and that’s despite 2 jittery home performances.

The visitors started the brightest with winger Leadbetter, playing his last match before a 2 game suspension, forcing a save from Darren Acton.

Carl Baker was also busy down the right, as he tried to serve Fearns and Robinson, but chances were at a premium in an edgy first period.

Nuneaton came to life as the half progressed, former Coventry striker Avun Jephcott, in particular, a handful for the ‘Port defenders.

But Borough were rarely given the opportunity to test Southport ‘keeper Steve Dickinson, as the ‘Port rearguard efficiently thwarted any potential danger.

Significantly, midfield anchor Kevin Lynch continued to win the ball as he harried the home side before distributing to good effect.

Southport’s Neil Robinson shot narrowly wide after being fed by Price and Leadbetter saw his rising shot clear the crossbar.

The visitors’ superiority paid dividends 3 minutes into the second period when the instrumental Lynch teamed-up with former Vauxhall colleague Terry Fearns.

Neil Robinson dispossessed Steve Farmer inside the centre circle before releasing Lynch who smartly back-heeled to release Fearns down the left.

The former UniBond marksman cut in from the wing and carried the ball, before stroking it past the advancing Acton with his trademark composure.

On-fire Fearns could have doubled his tally, but was denied by some smart work from Acton on 2 occasions. The duo locked horns again as the Nuneaton ‘keeper both saved and collected from the feet of the ‘Port striker, before Fearns lost some of his fizz.

It took 75 minutes for Nuneaton to mount their first serious attack, with Frew heading wide following Wilson’s right centre.

Sub Noon also had an effort blocked by Fitzhenry while Gary Fitzpatrick failed to find the target with a glancing header.

The match ended in controversy, with Nuneaton’s Steve Farmer collapsing in the penalty area, claiming he was illegally floored by Lynch in an off-the-ball incident. Referee Steans turned a blind eye.

Following 2 hard-fought away victories, Southport have a full week off before a home double against Altrincham and Runcorn.

Away from home, Southport look relaxed and confident but something will have to be done about their Haig Avenue blues if they are to fulfil the bookies’ predictions.