Eastbourne Borough advanced to the next round after defeating Leatherhead in a penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Lewis Carey playing a pivotal role by saving four spot-kicks. The match, contested on Saturday at Leatherhead’s home ground, was marked by challenging playing conditions due to a deteriorating pitch and heavy puddles that disrupted the flow of the game.

The visitors, known as The Sports, took the lead in the 21st minute. Following a cleared corner, Max Sheaf struck a low shot from approximately 25 yards out. The effort deflected off a defender, wrong-footing the Leatherhead goalkeeper Sonny Wheeler before finding the net. The remainder of the first half saw both sides struggle to maintain clear possession amid the slippery surface.

Leatherhead responded early in the second half, doubling their advantage in the 53rd minute. Nathan Laleye received the ball on the left flank, cut inside, and unleashed a curling shot with his right foot that found the far corner of the goal, leaving Wheeler with no opportunity to save. Shortly after, Cameron Black came close to reducing the deficit, hitting the post with a header.

Eastbourne began their comeback in the 67th minute when Nathan Hogan converted a penalty with confidence. The momentum swung further in Eastbourne’s favour in the 80th minute as Cameron Black capitalized on a loose clearance to score, leveling the match and forcing it into a penalty shootout.

During the shootout, Lewis Carey delivered an outstanding performance, saving four penalties to secure Eastbourne’s progression. The victory was a testament to Eastbourne’s resilience and Carey’s goalkeeping skills, overcoming adverse conditions and a two-goal deficit to advance.