Avoiding a two-legged semi-final against Farnborough has at least eased fixture congestion for the Spitfires, who still have 11 games to play in their Conference South survival fight.
A 52nd-minute own goal divided the sides at the Silverlake Stadium in a tie refereed by Premiership official Rob Styles.
As Kirk Hudson's cross-shot came in, Eastleigh defender Ian Oliver tried to intercept, but succeeded only in diverting the ball past his own goalkeeper Jamie Pullen.
Eastleigh welcomed back youngsters Jack Smith, Phil Cousins and Adam Taz' Roberts, who are all dual-signed with Southern League clubs, and there was a full 90-minute run-out for experienced midfielder Andy Harris, who has been out with long-term knee trouble.
Director of football Paul Doswell took the side, leaving boss Jason Dodd to concentrate on coaching, and he admitted avoiding a long-winded semi-final wasn't all bad.
"Obviously we want to win any game we play but, if I'm being honest, we've breathed a sigh of relief as we've still got a lot of league games to fit in," said Doswell.Source: www.dailyecho.co.uk
For an audio report of the match - from Skyline 102.5 FM, click on the link below and chose the link for the match:
http://www.kingsleydrycleaners.com