Gallery: Whites Make First Round Proper After Eastbourne Win

Monday, 19 October 2026 10:23

By Dexter Allison

Salisbury FC defeated Eastbourne Borough to reach the first round proper of the FA Cup for the first time since its reformation.

Brian Dutton's record-breaking side scored all three goals in the second half after halftime changes, with two from substitutes Josh Hedges and Jeremy Sivi.

The visitors came into the game with nine wins on the bounce and promised to make real work of the home side.

The first half lacked the cutting edge Salisbury fans have become accustomed to this season, as both sides looked to figure each other out.

However, the magic of the FA Cup suddenly came alive after a couple of changes at the break, as Luke Russe made way for Josh Hedges in the 46th minute.

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Salisbury V Eastbourne Borough (FA Cup)

Photos: Kiera Marie Smith Photography

Although Eastbourne's best chance came in the 52nd minute after a cross was delivered and nodded goalbound from close range, Will Henry clawed the ball off the line with his fingertips to keep the score level.

Salisbury took the lead ten minutes later through substitute Josh Hedges, who tried to find the top corner with a curling effort, but the Eastbourne keeper got a hand to it; however, the save wasn't strong enough, and the ball bounced in for the opener.

Just three minutes after Hedges' finish, the floodgates seemed to open as Ollie Morgan found himself in a similar position after receiving a long ball from Dominic Revan, cutting inside onto his left foot to rifle a shot into the top left-hand corner for Salisbury's second.

The third of the afternoon fell to another substitute in Jeremy Sivi, who found himself free at the near post from a Caine Bradbury corner to nod home Salisbury's third and the winger's first goal of the season in the 73rd minute.

Josh Hedges came close to putting away our fourth of the game, but the chance was slightly scuffed, and the Whites settled for just three goals.

TNT Sports will broadcast the first-round draw live this evening (Monday 19th October) at 6:30 pm. Salisbury are ball number 65.

Salisbury Radio will be LIVE from the Ray Mac this evening, where supporters are gathering to watch the draw. Ian Pearson and Andy Munns will bring the reaction as Salisbury discover who their opponents will be.