Lichfield City were edged out by the odd goal in three against Southam United in manager Paul Holt’s first home game in charge by the in form Southam Utd.

The home side were once again slow out of the blocks as last season’s league top scorer Simeon Smith firing wide after an error by Todd Perry.

Lichfield were struggling to get a foot hold in the game and Southam deservedly took the lead on 25 minutes. This time Smith made no mistake as he capitalised on keeper Chris Butler’s hesitance to tap home after the ball came back off the post.

The goal gave City a much-needed wake-up call and the gradually started to get back in the game as Lee Ashmore fired wide and Jacob Snape forced a fine reaction save from the visiting keeper.

Their work paid off when Lichfield got themselves back on level terms after 35 minutes. Ashmore’s corner found Liam Holt on the back post and he headed home his fourth goal in as many games.

The second half began much more evenly with neither side creating many chances as the game became a battle of the midfields. However, it was Southam who broke the stalemate when a clever ball caught City square at the back and George Curry finished confidently on 65 minutes.

Lichfield huffed and puffed in the final quarter of the game, Holt firing a free kick agonisingly wide and Ashley Bennett firing tamely at the keeper.

The home fans did have one more moment to cheer in the game as Smith was denied a second goal of the afternoon when Butler saved his penalty kick.

New boss Holt will have a second chance to pick up a first home win next Saturday when City entertain Stafford Town, kick-off 3pm.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.