WORCESTER City turned in an excellent defensive performance to bridge the gap of one division and earn an FA Trophy first-round home replay against Southport after tonight's 0-0 draw.

The postponement of the original tie due to a waterlogged pitch at the weekend meant the teams knew a visit to Vanarama National League high-fliers Dover Athletic awaited in the next round by the time they took to the pitch.

But while Southport created the clearer chances, they came up against a well-drilled Worcester side, whose doughty performance was worthy of a draw.

Worcester made a brisk start with Ellis Deeney at the centre of their productive early play.

Deeney had a long-range free-kick blocked by the Southport wall before another set-play from the midfielder was headed over by Shaun Harrad.

As Worcester continued to force the issue, Deeney sent in an excellent right-wing cross that was missed by everyone in the Southport box before Harrad sent the loose ball over and Wayne Thomas also saw a header deflected wide.

It was midway through the first half before Southport enjoyed their first foray into Worcester territory.

Jamie Allen made a strong run into the box but the danger was well read by Tom Sharpe.

Thomas was also alert to make an interception as Adam Blakeman released Louis Almond on the counter-attack and he played in Allen but the covering defender dealt with the threat.

Having taken their time to settle, Southport grew into the contest as the half progressed.

Their clearest opening came six minutes before the break when Allen’s cut-back from the byline was met by a powerful shot from Mike Phenix but Thomas made a crucial block.

The rebound fell to Matt Challoner but his effort from 25 yards was always rising.

Southport began the second half with intent but Worcester kept a good defensive shape and maintained their discipline.

Allen made a good run into the Worcester area and laid the ball back for the oncoming Gary Jones, whose shot crept past the far post.

Southport’s main source of danger came increasingly down their right side and it was from that wing Phenix made good ground before teeing up Andy Wright to send a first-time effort over the bar.

Worcester found themselves under a growing amount of pressure and the Sandgrounders came within inches of opening the scoring when Allen’s low 30-yard drive was deflected onto the post by keeper Ethan Ross.

Yet that was as good as things got for the home team. Blakeman sent in a teasing cross from the left, which eluded both Wright and Phenix in the six-yard box as the visitors held strong.

The replay will be played before January 4.

City: Ross 7; Weir 6, Sharpe 7, THOMAS 8, Gudger 6 (Minihan 63, 6); Deeney 7, Jackman 6; Nti 6, Burton 5 (Dunkley 57, 6), Nelson-Addy 6; Harrad 6. Subs not used: Waldron, Gater, Morris.

Attendance: 270.