Horsham Stun Eastleigh in Pre-Season Friendly Thriller

Non-league side Horsham produced a memorable upset on 11 July 2026, defeating National League outfit Eastleigh 3-2 in a lively pre-season friendly at the Camping World Community Stadium. The match served as an ideal workout for both sides, but Horsham's sharp finishing and resilience stole the show.

Eastleigh started brightly, with striker Tom Wraight nodding in a cross in the 12th minute to give the visitors an early lead. Horsham responded well, equalising through a long-range effort from midfielder Jack Brivio that caught the Eastleigh goalkeeper off his line.

The hosts then took the lead just after the half-hour mark. A quick counter-attack saw winger Charlie Gibson cut inside and fire low into the far corner. Eastleigh restored parity in the 55th minute when Sam Smart finished from a tight angle, but Horsham had the final say – substitute Tommy Bardsley headed in a free-kick in the 81st minute to seal a famous victory.

Match Events at a Glance

• 12' – 0-1: Tom Wraight (header)
• 26' – 1-1: Jack Brivio (long-range strike)
• 34' – 2-1: Charlie Gibson (cut inside and finish)
• 55' – 2-2: Sam Smart (angled shot)
• 81' – 3-2: Tommy Bardsley (header from free-kick)

Team Performances

Horsham, who play in the Isthmian League Premier Division, used the friendly to test their fitness against higher-level opposition. Their intensity was impressive, particularly in the second half when they pressed high and forced turnovers. Manager Dom Di Paola will be pleased with the defensive organisation, especially after conceding early.

Eastleigh, preparing for the National League season, fielded a mix of first-team regulars and trialists. While their attacking fluidity was evident, defensive lapses on set pieces remain a concern. Head coach Kelvin Davis will use the result as a learning tool ahead of their league opener.

Key Takeaways

• Horsham's finishing: Three goals from limited chances showed clinical edge.
• Set-piece vulnerability: Eastleigh conceded from a corner and a free-kick.
• Minute management: Both sides used multiple substitutions, giving fringe players valuable game time.

What's Next?

Horsham continue their pre-season schedule with a trip to Bognor Regis Town next weekend. Eastleigh face Portsmouth in a behind-closed-doors friendly before their National League campaign begins against Dagenham & Redbridge on 5 August.