Report by North Derbyshire Radio’s Senior Football Correspondent Elliot Steadman
A Luke Brennan brace proved decisive as Buxton edged past Southport 2-1 at The Silverlands.
The visitors started brightly, forcing True Grant into two early saves.
Buxton grew into the game, with Josh Williams creating their first real opening. He played Johnny Johnston down the left, but his near-post effort was well saved by Chris Renshaw.
Southport felt aggrieved after 21 minutes when Kieran Burton appeared to bring down Dior Angus in the box, but referee Darren Rogers waved away the appeals and awarded a goal kick.
Ten minutes later, Buxton made the breakthrough. Josh Popoola whipped a low cross into the box, and Brennan was on hand to steer it home for 1-0.
The hosts nearly doubled their lead just before half-time when Bobby Faulkner rose highest from a corner, forcing Renshaw into another smart save.
Buxton didn’t have to wait long for their second. Early in the second half, Connor Kirby was brought down by Tom Moore during a corner, and the referee pointed to the spot. Brennan’s penalty was saved, but he reacted quickest to slot home the rebound, doubling Buxton’s advantage.
Southport were handed a lifeline with 15 minutes to go when Faulkner inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, setting up a nervy finish.
Despite late pressure from the visitors, Buxton stood firm to see out the victory and claim all three points.
