Eastleigh's head of youth Lee Peacock off to a winning start with AFC Portchester

Eastleigh’s 40-year-old head of youth dusted off his boots to help the Royals bounce back from behind for a 3-1 win over Whitchurch United at the Blanchard Wells Stadium.

Proving age is just a number, the former Manchester City, Bristol City and Swindon Town forward lasted 65 minutes on his debut – longer than Portchester boss Graham Rix had expected.

“He was brilliant holding the ball up for us and bringing others into play,” said Rix.

Portchester, looking to bounce back from a 2-1 defeat at Team Solent, fell behind to a Scott Hassell goal.

But man-of-the-match Luke Sweeney replied at the double before former Blackfield and Sholing frontman Alex Baldacchino struck after the break.

Peacock was one of three home debutants, joining Alex Miroy and Lewis Edwards in the Portchester side.

Edwards, a midfielder, came from Chichester City, while forward Miroy has been on the books of Horndean, Petersfield Town and Paulsgrove.

Rix's Royals remain fifth and are now 14 points behind league leaders Moneyfields with a game in hand.