Declan Evans’ header 15 minutes from time secured Southport a point as Brackley Town slipped off the top of the table.
Goals from Callum Stead and James Armson either side of the half-time whistle fired the Saints in front after Chris Doyle’s opener.
It was the perfect start for Port off after Doyle combined with Tyler Walton. The defender got his first of the season after thumping the ball past Danny Lewis.
The hosts failed to build on their lead and they were pegged back midway through the first-half. Shepherd Murombedzi picked up the ball around the centre-circle and threaded Callum Stead in after getting the wrong side of Keenan Quansah.
Stead raced in behind and curled around veteran goalkeeper Tony McMillan.
Southport had their chances during the first 45, however they were restricted to half-chances. Arguably their best came after a long throw from Jack Doyle evaded everyone in the Saints box before Lewis punched the danger way inside his six-yard box.
Shortly after the hour mark, Brackley – who were league leaders going into Tuesday’s contest – completed the comeback.
“We’ve come out and committed the cardinal sin, conceding a poor goal. Showed a bit of character to come back but we conceded goals at poor times and that’s why we’ve come away with one point rather than three.”
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Adam Rooney flicked on John Flanagan’s cross for James Armson who lofted over McMillan into the back of the net.
From Southport’s perspective, they allowed the visitors an easy avenue back into the game. Liam Watson’s side fought back and had a handful of opportunities to level.
Doyle’s inswinging corner deflected off Cosmos Matwasa before a goalmouth scramble ensued. Minutes later, Jordan Archer ghosted into the Brackley box but he miscued his header – after being unmarked.
However, substitute Evans pulled the hosts level after the Saints failed to clear their lines. Quansah lofted into the box and the former Mossley man rose highest heading back across goal and into the back of the net.
Port came away from the draw feeling disappointed to only pick up a point and they could’ve had all three in stoppage time. Doyle, who scored the opener, forced Lewis to desperately smother the ball after he was found at the back post.
Match Stats:
Southport 2-2 Brackley Town
Goals: 2′ Chris Doyle, 75′ Declan Evans; 30′ Callum Stead, 63′ James Armson
HT/FT Score: 1-1/2-2.
