ALDERSHOT Town's fledgling side began their pre-season campaign with a 2-1 defeat at Eastleigh Town on Saturday.

After the trauma of relegation from the Football League, followed by a desperate fight for survival, Aldershot's combination of contract and trial players ran out in front of 267 spectators at a blisteringly hot Silverlake Stadium, home of the Conference South side.

Jai Reason converted a penalty to put the Spitfires in front after 29 minutes. But Aldershot replied with their first goal of this new era, Joe Oastler equalising with a solo effort.

Andy Scott rang the changes in the second half, but it was Eastleigh who grabbed the winner when Stuart Fleetwood, their big signing from Luton, finished well.

For full story, see this week's Herald.