SOUTHPORT breezed past Solihull Moors to extend their lead at the top of the Blue Square North in conditions not usually conducive to attractive, attacking football.

Swirling winds, heavy gales and a sodden pitch frustrated both sides for much of the opening half and, with Port shooting into the gales, chances were a premium.

But in the second half, a re-energised Southport were relentless but will be disappointed at converting just two of a flurry of chances.

Port scored with the real first attempt on goal from either side in the 41st minute. Mark Duffy raced to the byline to swing in a high cross that Ciaran Kilheeney did well to control, sending a looping header over the stranded Crane from ten yards.

After the break, Liam Watson’s side proved their promotion credentials with an encouraging display that mustered 16 efforts on goal.

Neil Robinson and Adam Flynn both squandered chances before Alan Moogan scored his first goal for the club, hammering home an unstoppable free kick from the edge of the area.

Port strikers Steve Daly and Tony Gray were then brought on from the bench and sustained the side’s attacking momentum.

Daly, with his first touch of the ball, back-heeled Mark Duffy’s low free kick from 30 yards, cheekily diverting it past Crane, who must have surely had the shot covered.

Gray should have scored Port’s fourth moments later, but after cutting into the box from the left his angled drive cannoned off the outside of the post.

Port now hold a two point lead over Harrogate Town and Tamworth, who are beginning to separate from the pack.