Stourbridge battle to earn replay against National League side Eastleigh

Posted Sunday, November 10, 2019 by PA

Stourbridge earned an FA Cup replay with Eastleigh after battling to an impressive 2-2 draw against their National League opponents.

The Southern League Central side were keen to add to a strong record in the competition – which has seen them reach the first round six times in the last 10 years – and will get another shot at the task next week.

Stourbridge led twice through Aaron Lloyd and Will Grocott but Eastleigh hit back through Tyrone Barnett and Scott Rendell to take the game to a replay.

The hosts broke the deadlock on 25 minutes as Lloyd headed home from six yards out.

Eastleigh replied 10 minutes later as Barnett beat goalkeeper James Wren to Andrew Boyce’s cross to head into an empty net.

The Glassboys were then ahead for the second time just seven minutes into the second half when Grocott rifled beyond Maksymilian Stryjek with an excellent effort.

Eastleigh threatened with an effort from Cavanagh Miley before being handed the chance to level from the penalty spot when Sam Smart was fouled, but Wren saved from Rendell.

Stourbridge defended their lead doggedly but couldn’t hang on as Rendell made up for his penalty miss by firing into the roof of the net five minutes from time.