Eastbourne Borough secured their first
ever win in the Blue Square Premier with a stunning 3-1
triumph at Stevenage on Tuesday night. Borough travelled
to the venue of their promotion to this division after
a narrow opening day defeat to Rushden & Diamonds
and many were fearing a backlash from the home sides 5-0
reverse at relegated Wrexham.
'The Sports' made a dream start. Just
12 minutes had gone when Pat Harding pounced on a quick
throw and found the bottom corner of the net from 20 yards
for the clubs 1st goal in the Blue Square Premier. Minutes
later those who had managed to battle through the traffic
chaos to make the kick-off were in ecstacy as clever work
by Ben Austin on the right ended with a cutback to Andy
Atkin who made no mistake as he made it 2-0.
New signing Mo Harkin made his debut for
Eastbourne Borough after being left out of Saturday's
squad against Rushden & Diamonds and his performance
tonight warranted his inclusion in this 2nd league fixture.
Stevenage slowly worked their way into the game and Lee
Hook was at his best to deny ex-Lewes man Andy Drury with
a fine tip over the bar on 34 minutes. Stevenage were
handed a life-line when a harsh
Paul Armstrong foul on 43 minutes helped provide a goal
for the home side. Drury stepped up and curled a fine
free-kick, which deceived Hook, and set up an interesting
second half.
Any fears of 'The Sports' sitting back
and defending their slender 2-1 lead were soon dispelled
as the second half got under way. After dominating possession,
Atkin scored a deserved third for the visitors. Austin's
throw-in was flicked on and Atkin fired home at the second
attempt, grateful for the time and spacve in the home
sides penalty area. 3 minutes later a clever through ball
from Armstrong found Atkin in space but his right wing
cross just eluded an advancing Allan Tait.
Stevenage were frustrated as the back
five of Eastbourne Borough were in outstanding form and
snuffed out any forays forward. Simon
Wormull replaced Tait with minutes remaining and was unfortunate
not to get his name on the scoresheet as he struck the
woodwork from close range.
This was Eastbourne Borough's night, and
as previously returned home celebrating a 'famous' victory
from Broadhall Way, this time after recording the clubs
1st win over a Conference Premier side.
Words - Lee Peskett
Photo - Mark Neal Photography
