IMPRESSIVE holders Stanley, resting several regulars, deservedly eased through to a Marsden Trophy quarter-final tie at home to Lancaster City (Wednesday 29 January, 7.45pm).
They beat a Southport side comprised entirely of contracted Conference regulars - the only exception England Under-19 striker Neil Prince - including former Crown Ground favourite Martin Clark.
The 2-0 margin was an accurate reflection of ex-Southport player John Coleman's side's superiority and would also be relished by another ex-Sandgrounder, Andy Gouck.
A quiet first half saw Paul Mullin strike a post with a ferocious shot and Lutel James rounded the keeper early on only to lose control. The main scare for Stanley was a vehement shout for handball outside the box by Jamie Speare which was turned down.
Stanley perhaps thought they had missed the boat when on 72 minutes Lutel James had a rare unsuccessful penalty attempt, his spot-kick well saved by Welsby after substitute Rory Prendergast was pulled down by Neil Moore. But the subsequent corner was only half-cleared and in the ensuing scramble, defender Steve Halford slotted home.
Southport only had one real shot on target all night and it was no real surprise when Reds doubled the lead.
After an excellent advantage by the ref, Prendergast was denied by a one-footed save by Welsby but another sub, Simon Carden, was able to head in over the stranded keeper.
Southport skipper Soley hit the bar with a late penalty to compound the visitors' misery.
