Eastbourne Borough FC secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Aveley FC at The ReachTV Stadium, with a spirited comeback that saw the Sports overturn an early deficit. The match was marked by significant milestones, including Vukoje’s first start since returning from a season-ending injury last season and Ballard McBride’s first league goal for Eastbourne Borough.

The game began on a difficult note for Borough, as Aveley took an early lead in the 5th minute. A quick counter-attack down the right side lead to Wright making the initial save, but couldn’t hold onto the ball, allowing an Aveley player to put pressure on the ball and a Barry own goal. Eastbourne struggled to find their rhythm early on, but gradually worked their way into the match. The Sports created their first real chance in the 13th minute when Bamba found space to shoot from the edge of the box, only for his effort to be deflected into the keeper’s arms.

Eastbourne’s persistence paid off in the 29th minute when a well-delivered corner from Bird found Quick, who rose above the Aveley defense to head the ball past the keeper and bring the Sports level. The equaliser spurred Borough on, and they almost took the lead just minutes later when Pavey controlled a cross from Quick and fired a half-volley over the bar. The first half ended with both sides creating opportunities, but neither able to find a breakthrough.

The second half saw Eastbourne come out with renewed determination, and it didn’t take long for them to take the lead. In the 51st minute, Barry played a perfectly weighted ball down the middle for Ballard McBride to chase. The forward kept his composure in a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper, calmly slotting the ball home for his first league goal for Eastbourne Borough. The Sports continued to press, with Bamba and Sesay both coming close to extending the lead.

Aveley pushed for an equalizer in the final stages, creating a few nervy moments for Borough’s defense, including a crucial block by Quick in the 77th minute to deny a clear scoring opportunity. Despite the pressure, Eastbourne held firm, with Wright making a vital save in the 88th minute to preserve the lead. A late flurry of chances for Borough, including a dangerous cross from Ligendza that somehow evaded everyone in the box, ensured that Aveley were kept on the back foot. The match ended with Eastbourne securing a hard-fought victory, a testament to their resilience and team spirit.