Two Southport FC legends have joined the line-up for the forthcoming Charity Match on Sunday 3rd August 2025 (kick off 3pm).
This special day of hope and healing, organised by Southport Hesketh Round Table and Southport Football Club, will raise money for the families of the Southport tragedy.
A Southport FC spokesperson said: “We’re pleased to reveal that former Southport players Steve ‘Sid’ Pickford and Earl Davis will be making a return to Haig Avenue, as they’re set to play in our Charity Match on Sunday 3rd August, taking place in support of the 24 families directly affected by the tragic events of 29th July 2024.
“Organised in partnership with Southport Hesketh Round Table, this is more than a football match – it’s a powerful day of remembrance, unity, and fundraising. The Round Table has already raised nearly £185,000 through their official GoFundMe and continues to support the families affected.
“Steve ‘Sid’ Pickford made 178 appearances for Southport, scoring 17 goals during his time at Haig Avenue. Sid was the scorer of two goals in our giant killing FA Cup upset against Notts County, with one of them featuring in the opening credits of Match of the Day, widely referred to as one of the greatest games at Haig Avenue.
“Earl Davis made a staggering 261 appearances in Southport colours, scoring 10 times. ‘Big Earl’ lifted the Conference North title twice for Southport.
“Both Sid and Earl have been inducted into the Southport FC Hall of Fame, and we look forward to welcoming them both back onto the Haig Avenue turf, in support of a special cause.”
Buy your tickets for the Charity Match here.
Match Management Teams
Teams will be managed by legends John Aldridge, Joe Royle & Willie Donachie.
- John Aldridge – Liverpool, Real Sociedad and Tranmere Rovers legend. Aldridge scored over 300 career goals and brings incredible footballing pedigree to the dugout.
- Joe Royle – Everton icon and FA Cup–winning manager. As a player and manager, Royle’s football legacy stretches across multiple decades.
- Willie Donachie – Former Scotland international, long-time assistant to Royle, and ex-Southport FC Women manager. A respected coach and leader.
A Star-Studded Line-Up
Like Soccer Aid, this charity match will feature a blend of celebrities, ex-professional footballers, and special guests. So far, confirmed names include:
- Toni Duggan – Ex-England international with 79 caps. Played for Everton, Man City, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid.
- James Nelson-Joyce – Acclaimed actor (This City Is Ours, Black Mirror) and Soccer Aid participant.
- Natasha Dowie – WSL top scorer and FA Cup winner. Played for Everton, Liverpool, and more.
- Chelcee Grimes – Singer-songwriter (Dua Lipa, Kylie, Olly Murs), presenter, and ex-footballer for Liverpool, Everton and Spurs.
- Liam Smith – Former WBO light-middleweight boxing world champion.
- Jazza Dickens – IBA and WBA super featherweight world champion.
- Lee Peltier – Former Liverpool defender, most recently at Rotherham United.
- Rickie Lambert – Ex-Southampton and Liverpool striker, with a rise from non-league to Premier League and England honours.
- Dylan Thomas-Smith – BAFTA-nominated actor from ITV’s G’wed and The Gathering.
- Sam Taylor – Comedic content creator and social media personality.
- Neil Danns – Current Southport FC Manager. Ex-Crystal Palace, Bolton and Leicester midfielder, now lacing up his boots for the match.
- Mark Duffy – Assistant Manager at Southport and ex-pro with Sheffield United, ADO Den Haag, and Southport. Returning to play at Haig Avenue.
Special Guests Attending
- Tony Bellew – Former world champion boxer and Creed star. Although injured, he’ll attend in full support.
And that’s just the beginning – more announcements are coming. Follow our channels for updates as we build towards a full house at Haig Avenue.
Buy Your Tickets Now
All profits from the match will go directly to the fundraising efforts led by Southport Hesketh Round Table, who have already raised nearly £185,000 through their official GoFundMe campaign.
Let’s take that support even further.
- Standing – £10
- Seating – £15
➡️ Click here to purchase your tickets now
Let’s fill the stands, celebrate our town’s strength, and show what Southport is made of.
More Than Football
This is a day for everyone – families, football fans, and anyone who wants to stand in solidarity with those impacted. With live music, food and drink, and a fantastic match, it’s set to be a memorable occasion.
Whether you come for the football or the cause, your presence will make a difference.
Let’s come together. Let’s make it count.
Join us at Haig Avenue on Sunday 3rd August 2025.
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