NORTH FERRIBY 2 EASTLEIGH 1

REECE THOMPSON’S late goal kept alive North Ferriby’s slim hopes of avoiding relegation on a nerve-jangling afternoon.

Ferriby started the game well and twice went close in the opening 15 minutes through Matty Dixon and Mark Gray.

A mix-up in defence between Gavin Hoyte and keeper Graham Stack then allowed Robbie Tinkler to prod the ball home to open the scoring for the hosts in the 22nd minute.

Eastleigh probably should have scored in an almighty goalmouth scramble which saw three shots blocked by Ferriby’s defenders.

The second-half was scrappier than the first. Consequently, there was little goalmouth action and the game was largely a midfield battle between Connor Oliver and Dixon for Ferriby and Sam Matthews and Sam Togwell for Eastleigh.

Eastleigh had most of the possession and territory but rarely threatened keeper Owen Evans.

Substitute Ross Stearn stunned Ferriby after 77 minutes when his powerful low shot from the corner of the area nestled inside the far post.

Ferriby could have crumbled but they showed their spirit and determination with some solid defending and good approach work in attack.

It culminated with the winning goal two minutes from time. Ryan Fallowfield’s pass found Sam Topliss whose cross was met by Thompson who controlled the ball before firing home.

Delighted Ferriby manager Steve Housham said: “I thought our first half performance was our best of the season. It was great to see the players keep their heads up after the equaliser and get the winner.”

His opposite number Richard Hill said: “I told my players that Ferriby would battle hard but we could not lift our game.”