Eastleigh made short work of their struggling Ryman League opponents in the club's first ever match in the FA Trophy at Ten Acres last Saturday.
The home side made a slow start and defender Robbie Chamberlain had to head behind for a corner as the Essex side pressed early on. But Eastleigh settled into their game and both David Hughes and Ryan Ashford came close before the first goal arrived in the 24th minute. A corner from the right was flicked on by Paul Sales for Kevin Gibbens to score from close range. They kept up the pressure and Hughes then put Ashford through, only for goalkeeper Hudson to make a good save to deny him. Then, shortly before half time, Nicky Banger was only just off target. Ten minutes into the second half, Eastleigh made it 2-nil when Tyronne Bowers, who had come on as substitute for Danny Woods early in the game, found himself in space and scored with a well struck shot from outside the penalty area. The goal was celebrated with his usual somersault routine! But the visitors rallied briefly and twice came close. Skipper Danny Scopes and then Glen Bennett both shot just wide, Bennett when he was clean through. Eastleigh then got the third with another well struck shot from the impressive Hughes to effectively end the game as a contest. Hudson made further good saves from Chamberlain and Banger as the Hampshire team earned their passage to the next round. They'll now be away to fellow Dr Martens League side Erith and Belvedere on November 1st.
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