DIDCOT Town impressed as they began pre-season with a narrow 1-0 defeat against a strong Eastleigh side.

A host of players with extensive Football League experience were on show for the Vanarama National League visitors, including former Oxford United striker James Constable.

It was another player with experience of a higher level, former Bournemouth and Portsmouth midfielder Danny Hollands, who scored the only goal just before half-time.

Didcot were on the back foot early on, but had a big chance when Sam Elkins and Lewis Hayden combined to free Louis Joyce.

He ran through on goal but from a narrow angle his effort was saved by Graham Stack.

Didcot were caught on the break from the resulting corner, with Hollands punishing the hosts’ failure to clear their lines.

Stack thwarted Joyce again in a quiet second half, which saw both sides make a host of changes.

The Railwaymen, who hosted Oxford City last night, continue their pre-season campaign at Fleet Town on Saturday.

l CONNER Lynch scored four goals as Letcombe won a double-header against Marlborough Town.

After Luke Conner opened the scoring, Lynch’s double secured a 3-0 victory in the first game.

And he was at the double again in a 5-1 victory in the second game.

Jack Heggie, Alex Fragata and an own goal completed Letcombe’s scoring, while goalkeeper Ollie Harrison saved a penalty.