Pitch not ready yet

By Wendy Gee -  

EASTLEIGH have had to cancel their first home pre-season friendly against Crewe Alexandra next Tuesday.

Having done major pitch improvements during the summer, they have been advised not to play on the surface too early following recent torrential downpours.

A club spokesman said: "We have invested heavily in the pitch to provide the playing surface fans, management and players alike all crave.

"Reluctantly, and under instruction, we have had no option but to call Tuesday’s game off to ensure the pitch will be durable for a busy Blue Square Bet South programme.

"We do not anticipate any issues with our next home fixture against Oxford United on Tuesday, August 7."

Crewe have replaced the fixture with a trip to Southern Premier outfit Bashley.

"It's disappointing, but it can't be helped," said Eastleigh manager Ian Baird, whose side got pre-season under way with a 2-2 draw at Southern One South & West side Poole Town last night.

The Spitfires led 2-0 at half-time thanks to new signing Jai Reason and Daryl McMahon.

Baird made eight half-time changes and Poole hit back through Jamie Beasley and James Herrington.

Eastleigh gave a trial to Cassius Newton, son of Chelsea's Champions League-winning assistant manager Eddie, who had a brief spell with Winchester City last season.

Unfortunately for the midfielder/striker, he finished the game with concussion and had to go to hospital.

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