The hosts were still handed the cup for safe keeping in their trophy cabinet in recognition of their local Premier League Grand Final triumph last weekend, but on the field it was a one-sided contest as United moved comfortably through the gears.

Miron Bleiberg’s men took an early lead when Sami Tesfagabr capitalised on a defensive mix up to slot into the empty net after just five minutes.

Steve Beever’s troops resisted United’s forward thrusts for another half an hour, but by half time it was 3-0 thanks to goals from Robson and Golgol Mebrahtu.

Strike of the night was claimed by Tahj Minniecon just after the restart with his 30-metre effort curling beautifully into the top corner to make it four for Gold Coast.

Chris Harold’s pace was too much for the home defence late on when he burst free to make it 5-0, then ten minutes from time Mitch Bevan completed the scoring when he prodded home from just inside the box.

Warriors’ Norwegian goalkeeper Eikum earned the man of the match award for his sterling performance and will now spend a week training with United as his reward.

Coach Miron Bleiberg paid tribute to Southport who provided unrelenting resistance for the entire ninety minutes, giving his side the tough hit out they needed ahead of the big kick-off on October 9.

“Steve Beever has done a great job with Southport and he has built a very good side here,” Bleiberg said.

“He was one of the local coaches who spent a lot of time with us last season – attending training sessions and matches – so hopefully we have contributed a little bit to his success.

“But they again played very well tonight against us and it wasn’t easy, despite the scoreline. Southport had nothing to play for and yet they never stopped running and competing.

“Their goalkeeper Andreas Eikum did very well and we are looking forward to having him along to train with us when he gets back from their end of season trip.

“Overall the night was a good exercise, with a good crowd, a good game and a great start to the Clive Palmer Community Cup, which we hope will be a tradition in the coming years."