In a pulsating encounter at Damson Park, Eastleigh staged a remarkable second-half comeback to snatch all three points from Solihull Moors, ultimately winning 3-2 in a match that ebbed and flowed dramatically. The visitors found themselves staring down the barrel of defeat after a blistering start from the home side, only to rally with three unanswered goals to secure a memorable victory.
Solihull Moors began the brighter of the two teams, asserting their dominance early on. Their pressure paid off in the 20th minute when Conor Wilkinson found the back of the net to give them a deserved 1-0 lead. The Moors doubled their advantage just three minutes later, with Scott High adding a second goal in the 23rd minute. Both goals were assisted by Jacob Wakeling, who was proving to be a thorn in the Eastleigh defence. At 2-0, Solihull Moors appeared to be cruising, controlling possession and looking comfortable.
However, the complexion of the game shifted dramatically at the start of the second half. Eastleigh, perhaps spurred on by some stern words during the interval, emerged with renewed vigour. Their comeback began almost immediately, with Harvey Saunders reducing the deficit in the 46th minute, assisted by Archie Harris. The momentum had well and truly swung, and the visitors were level just three minutes later. Samuel Pearson netted the equaliser in the 49th minute, this time with an assist from Saunders, who had turned provider.
The introduction of James Waite as a substitute in the 70th minute proved to be a masterstroke. With the score locked at 2-2, Waite went on to score the decisive goal in the 74th minute, completing a stunning turnaround for the Spitfires. The goal, scored by the substitute who had only been on the pitch for a few minutes, sealed a remarkable comeback.
Solihull Moors attempted to salvage something from the game, with manager Chris Millington making several tactical substitutions throughout the second half, including bringing on Darius Lipsiuc for Jacob Wakeling in the 62nd minute. Despite their efforts, they were unable to find an equaliser. Alex Whitmore received a yellow card for a foul on the opposition in the 78th minute, a late booking that summed up the frustration of the home side.
The victory sees Eastleigh climb the English National League table, reinforcing their position and demonstrating their fighting spirit. Solihull Moors, meanwhile, will be left to rue a missed opportunity to solidify their own standing, having let a commanding lead slip away in the most disheartening of circumstances. This was a testament to Eastleigh’s resilience and ability to seize crucial moments, ultimately securing a vital three points on the road.
