Barrow celebrate

Blue Square North play-offs, first leg

Barrow and Southport each scored crucial home victories in the first leg of the Blue Square North play-offs on Wednesday evening.

Liam Blakeman's goal in the 36th minute goal handed the Sandgrounders the lead against Stalybridge at Haig Avenue. Celtic pushed for the equaliser but failed to breach the home side's rearguard.

However, all is not lost for Steve Burr's men as they know that the deficit is not insurmountable.

Barrow hold the upper hand in the other tie as they scored two late goals against AFC Telford at Holker Street.

Paul Tait opened the scoring after 72 minutes and Nick Rogan doubled the Bluebirds' advantage ten minutes later.

The scoreline means Telford have it all to do in the return tie at New Bucks Head.

Semi-final first leg results

Southport 1-0 Stalybridge

Barrow 2-0 AFC Telford

Semi-final second legs: Sunday, May 4

AFC Telford v Barrow

Stalybridge Celtic v Southport