Back in the Cup, Bertie Brayley returns and Carew's loan stay is extended

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Eastleigh reinstated into Hampshire FA Senior Cup

By Wendy Gee -

Ian Baird is "pleased" that Eastleigh have been given a second chance of glory in the Hampshire FA Senior Cup.

The Spitfires' interest in the competition looked to be over when they lost their quarter-final 2-1 at Andover on February 12, writes Wendy Gee.

But it emerged that Andover had unwittingly fielded an ineligible player - midfielder James Roden having already appeared in the competition for Winchester City against Bashley.

The Spitfires were willing to play the tie again but, following yesterday's Hampshire FA hearing, the Lions were thrown out of the cup and Eastleigh reinstated.

It means Baird's promotion chasers, currently fourth in the Blue Square South, are now favourites to make the St. Mary's final on April 30.

They are joined in the last four by Sydenhams Wessex League duo VT FC and Brockenhurst - plus Fleet Town, who defeated Bashley 2-1 after extra time last night.

Eastleigh boss Baird said: "I'm pleased to be back in it. I've got a lot of respect for the tournament.

"We didn't take it lightly at Andover, we were very unfortunate to lose that game. We totally and utterly dominated, but our goalkeeper Gareth Howells had an off-night that he will never have again.

"I know Andover didn't field an ineligible player on purpose and I'm sure they're disappointed, but we can't let that affect us."

Eastleigh's one concern should they get to the final is that it falls between the two legs of the BS South play-off semi-finals, which could mean them field a weakened side.

"We're not in either yet. It's a bridge we'll have to cross when we come to it," said Baird.


Eastleigh have completed the signing of frontman Bertie Brayley (pictured above) in time for tonight's BS South trip to Newport County. They have also extended Ashley Carew's (below) loan from Barnet for a further month.


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