Seconds home win to Southport II

MATCH REPORT - Saturday 21 February 2026
In a crucial third v fourth position league encounter, Kirkby Lonsdale second team produced a spirited display to secure a 29–12 victory over Southport, avenging their earlier season defeat on the coast.
The hosts made a strong start, immediately putting Southport under pressure with direct, hard-running carries from Kelvin van Selm, James Walker and Dan Reid. After sustained early territory, Southport were penalised and Kirkby opted for the posts. Robbie Aiken stepped up and calmly slotted the kick to open the scoring.
Kirkby continued to dominate possession and momentum. A sharp break and impressive run from young colt, Max Muldowney saw him power over for the opening try, with Aiken adding the conversion to extend the lead.
Southport responded with determined forward pressure. Their number 15 threatened with several darting runs, while their captain consistently made valuable yardage to shift play upfield. After a sustained spell inside Kirkby’s half, the visitors eventually bundled over for an unconverted try to reduce the deficit.
Kirkby hit back through their backs, with Henry Thompson, Lee Benson, Harry Wharton and Archie Bamforth making excellent carries to regain territory. Inside the Southport 22, Wharton produced a well-timed offload to send Aiken through a gap to score under the posts. The successful conversion gave Kirkby breathing space, and despite further Southport pressure before the break, last-ditch tackling from Bateson and Bamforth ensured the home side led 17–5 at half-time.
Southport began the second half with intensity, using the wind and conditions cleverly to pin Kirkby inside their own 22. For over 15 minutes, the visitors applied relentless pressure, but Kirkby’s defensive organisation and discipline were outstanding, repeatedly repelling wave after wave of attack.
Eventually, Kirkby managed to break free, relying on their strong ball carriers to shift momentum back upfield. Dominance at the scrum created the platform, and Max Muldowney crossed for his second try of the game. The conversion drifted wide, but Kirkby had extended their advantage.
The contest then settled into a fiercely competitive midfield battle, with both sides matching each other physically and in pace. A moment of ambition from Kirkby saw them take a quick tap inside the Southport 22, catching the defence off guard. Dan Reid powered over the line, and Aiken added the extras to take the score to 29–5.
Southport refused to fade and continued to press. A yellow card for Kirkby in the closing stages gave the visitors renewed hope, and they capitalised by scoring a converted try during the final 15 minutes.
However, Kirkby saw out the remainder of the match confidently to secure a 29–12 victory. The game was played in excellent spirit, with tremendous support from both sets of players and spectators.
The win moves Kirkby Lonsdale up to third in the league standings, with a tough away trip to Aspull awaiting next week.
Also special mention to the two lads making their Kirkby debuts Jack Birkett & Jackson Five.
(Pic courtesy of jblacow81 photography!)