EASTLEIGH began the build-up to the new Vanarama National League season with a 2-0 win at neighbours AFC Stoneham last night.

New strike signing Scott Wilson from Weston-super-Mare and Yemi Odubade scored on a sunny evening in Chestnut Avenue.

The Spitfires had a number of trialists on show, including former England schoolboy international goalkeeper Mark Childs, who saved a penalty, and 21-year-old Josh Carmichael, a 6ft midfielder released by AFC Bournemouth at the end of last season.

Poole-born Carmichael, who put in a bright performance, was a Scotland under-16 and under-19 international and had loan spells with Gosport Borough, Welling United and Torquay United during his time with the Cherries, for whom he made four first-team appearances.

He was part of the Gosport side that reached the 2014 FA Vase final and featured in Alex Pike’s starting XI against Cambridge United at Wembley.

Winger Adam Dawson, another of the Spitfires’ summer signings, also got a run-out against the Sydenhams One hosts and those who didn’t feature will be included in the squad for tomorrow’s (Thursday’s) trip to Southern League outfit Banbury United.

Kick-off at the Banbury Plant Hire Community Stadium is 7.45pm and admission is £6 adults £3 concessions (over-60s and full-time students), £1 under-16s.