Morecambe FC are targeting a place in the next round of the Emirates FA Cup when they host Southport at the Halo Aerospace Stadium this weekend. Manager Adam Lakeland used his programme notes to outline the importance of the competition for generating excitement and bringing the community together.
Lakeland's side head into the cup tie in confident mood after a 3-0 win over Brackley Town last weekend. That result was part of a run that has seen them win four of their last five National League - North matches, a sequence that has lifted them to 10th place with 13 points from nine games.
Recent meetings with Southport
The cup draw sets up a quick reunion with Southport, who were beaten 2-0 by Morecambe in a league fixture just last week. That result provided a measure of revenge for a 2-1 defeat at Southport's ground earlier in the month. Reflecting on that first loss, Lakeland said his team responded well after falling behind.
"We know all about the qualities Southport possess after that recent meeting," Lakeland said. "They took a first-half lead before we produced a really strong second-half response."
Despite that late equaliser, Southport found a winner, but Morecambe's performance in the second half gave the manager belief. The team's recent form, which includes victories over Buxton, Chester, and AFC Telford United, suggests they have found a rhythm. Their standings position shows they are within touching distance of the playoff places.
Balancing priorities
While the league remains the primary focus this season, Lakeland is clear that the club wants to win every game it plays. The FA Cup represents a chance to create lasting memories and can provide a financial boost. Progressing past Southport would be another positive step in a season that has seen Morecambe score 13 goals while conceding only eight.
Southport arrive following a 2-0 loss to Worksop, but cup football often produces different dynamics. Morecambe will need to be wary of a reaction from their opponents.
After the cup tie, attention will swiftly turn back to the league campaign and a tough away trip to face second-placed Oxford City on September 26. For now, the immediate goal is clear: secure a win this weekend and keep the momentum building. The match kicks off at the Halo Aerospace Stadium, where Morecambe will look to extend their current two-game winning streak.
This story first appeared at Morecambe FC
Morecambe will face Darlington in the Emirates FA Cup third qualifying round on Saturday 3rd October. The club confirmed the tie, with Darlington announcing that away tickets are now on sale. The Shrimps, who are 10th in the National League - North, will host the match at the Halo Aerospace Stadium. Darlington stated that tickets are £2 more on the day, with seated adult tickets priced at £15 in advance.
Morecambe have now won five of their last six matches across all competitions, manager Adam Lakeland confirmed. The club, 10th in the National League - North, next travel to second-placed Oxford City. Lakeland said his side must maintain their winning habit. "Winning becomes a habit and we have now won five from the last six," the manager said. He also criticised the prevalence of artificial pitches, noting Oxford's 4G surface is not ideal.
