Southport vs Wigan

Wigan thought they had won it in stoppage time. Seb Spelman's header was diverted in by substitute Cole Simms, but the linesman's flag was correctly raised for offside. It was the only moment that looked like breaking the deadlock, and it evaporated on a marginal call.

Wigan manager John Caldwell made three changes at the break, introducing Seb Spelman, Sam Bolland and Cole Simms. Llyton Chapman — who captained the side on his 21st birthday in his first appearance since the start of April — was among those withdrawn.

Adeeko tested Honor from 18 yards early in the second period, but the shot deflected to Jeremiah Chilokoa-Mullen, whose follow-up was blocked before the ball was scrambled clear.

At the other end, former Wigan youngster Christy Edwards — introduced as a Southport substitute on the hour — found Slew, whose strike forced a strong save from Watson low to his left. Edwards then had a golden chance himself in the 72nd minute after Reece Greenhalgh's short back-pass played him through, but his left-footed effort trickled wide.

Both sides traded half-chances thereafter, but neither goalkeeper was seriously tested again.

Solomon Honor (Southport) — Composed display from the Southport goalkeeper, making key saves from Payne early on and Adeeko in the second half, and coming off his line decisively when required. A clean sheet to end pre-season.

Hindolo Mustapha (Wigan) — Wigan's most creative outlet, driving forward with purpose and creating chances with his close control. His ability to beat markers gave Southport's defence persistent problems all evening.

Jordan Slew (Southport) — Caused problems down the right flank, hitting the crossbar in the first half and forcing a sharp save from Watson in the second. Southport's most dangerous attacking outlet.

The 0-0 scoreline reflected a game of few clear-cut opportunities. Wigan created the greater volume of chances — Payne's early save, Mustapha's deflected effort, Adeeko's blocked shot and the disallowed Simms goal — but Southport matched them for defensive organisation. Jordan Slew's crossbar and Christy Edwards' wide strike in the 72nd minute were the hosts' most presentable openings. Both sides registered more territorial possession than genuine threat, a familiar pattern in pre-season hit-outs.

Before kick-off, the two sides paid tribute to the late Trevor Hitchen, who represented both Southport and Wigan during his playing career.

Southport ended pre-season unbeaten, having beaten Warrington Town (3-2), Bootle (2-1) and FC United of Manchester (2-0) before this draw. Neil Danns' side now turn to competitive action, opening their Enterprise National League North campaign away at Hebburn Town on 8 August.

For Wigan, this was their penultimate pre-season fixture. John Caldwell's side faced Grimsby Town the following day (1 August) to complete their preparations for the 2026-27 League One season.

A typical pre-season friendly — competitive without cutting edge in the final third. Both managers valued the minutes, particularly for Wigan's young squad augmented by trialists including veteran striker Scott Hogan. The clean sheet will please Danns ahead of the National League North opener, while Caldwell will want more attacking incision from his side before League One business begins.