Blues Match Preview: Chester v Southport

Enterprise National League North action is back at the Deva Stadium tomorrow afternoon as Southport travel to face Chester FC.

The reverse fixture ended level back in November, as goals from Offrande Zanzala and Connor Woods were cancelled out by Sonny Hilton and Adrien Thibaut.

The Opposition

After a disappointing start to 25/26, the Sandgrounders have grown into the campaign and now sit comfortably above the drop zone, with 10 points between themselves and the dotted line.

Their improved league form has seen the club lose just one of their last seven league outings, with nine points taken from the last 12 available.

Neil Danns’ men produced an impressive turnaround in midweek at Haig Avenue against Alfreton Town, as goals from Arthur Gnahoua and Malakai McKenzie earned all three points after Lewis Salmon’s first-half opener for the visitors.

Alongside league action, the club are just one game away from Wembley in the FA Trophy, after a penalty-shootout win over Yeovil Town set up a semi-final tie at home against National League outfit Southend United, which will take place next Saturday.

The Gaffer

Neil Danns has improved consistently throughout his first campaign in a permanent managerial role.

The 43-year-old had a distinguished career in the upper regions of the English football pyramid, with over 400 EFL appearances to his name, alongside five in the Premier League.

Danns’ most notable spells as a player came with Crystal Palace, Bolton Wanderers, and Bury.

One to Watch

Chris Sze has enjoyed a stellar spell on loan with the Sandgrounders since his temporary switch from Wigan Athletic in December.

The 22-year-old has netted on seven occasions in 15 appearances from midfield, playing a major role in the club’s rise up the division in 2026.

His goals proved crucial in tight wins over Bedford Town and Spennymoor Town, as well as an impressive brace against Hereford back in February.

League Form Guide

Chester FC | W15 D12 L12 | F57 A60 | Pos 9th

Last three

• Darlington (H) | W 2-1 | Scorers: Mottley-Henry, Shrimpton
• Merthyr Town (A) | W 2-1 | Scorers: Shrimpton, Mottley-Henry
• Kidderminster Harriers (A) | D 1-1 | Scorers: Shrimpton

Southport | W12 D12 L15 | F53 A60 | Pos: 15th

Last three

• Spennymoor Town (H) | Scorers: Sze, Tabone
• Oxford City (H) | Scorers: Lavelle
• Alfreton Town (H) | Scorers: Gnahoua, McKenzie

MATCH DETAILS

The match will kick-off at 15:00 at the Deva Stadium.