EASTLEIGH boosted their play-off hopes with a third successive National League victory, beating struggling Boston United 2-1.

After a quiet opening, Eastleigh broke the deadlock in the 38th minute through Jake Taylor. Jacob Hazel had the ball in the net for Boston just before the hour mark but was denied by the offside flag.

Tyrese Shade doubled Eastleigh’s lead 13 minutes before the end, while Connor Teale’s 90th-minute goal briefly gave Boston hope before the visitors saw out a victory that lifts them to within five points of seventh-placed Altrincham.

Best Goals from the Vanarama National League Match Day 34

Speaking after the match, manager Kelvin Davis said: "Yeah, good, good. Obviously, the result's big. It ended up being a tighter game than it needed to be.

"A decision at the end cost us a free kick into the box, making the last six or seven minutes awkward. But overall, three wins in a week—we had a plan, and we come away with nine points.

"Maybe not one for the neutrals, but it’s not about them—it’s about us. That’s three back-to-back wins. It was always going to be a dogged game. They’re scrapping for points, and we got dragged into that.

"Did we play as well as we’d like? No. But our spirit, organisation, and willingness to do the dirty bits were there. We scored two very good goals and could have had another.

"It was to see Taylor back so quickly after the incident and on the scoresheet. He crept into the box, the ball landed at his feet, and he finished well. Shade’s goal was fantastic. We’ve been pushing him to produce moments like that, and he delivered. He came inside, caught it well, and finished brilliantly.

"We had chances to extend our lead, especially in the first half. At 1-0, we weren’t disappointed—just focused on pushing on. These runs are important. We’ve moved up a place or two, and with 14 games to go, it’s about the group pushing each other.

"It’s their attitude and application that will determine where we end up. Quick turnaround now—Gateshead at home Tuesday. They’re in a good moment too, so it’ll be an interesting game."