Torode proud as Rustington earn replay

Blues drew 0-0 away to their division-higher opponents, after extra-time, and will now host the replay for the opportunity to travel to Blue Square Conference side Eastbourne Borough in the third round later this month, with the likely date January 22.

Torode said: “I’m proud of all of them.

“We had two hours of hectic football on Saturday and we had to really dig in against Peacehaven.

“We had our backs against the wall for the first 20 to 25 minutes and defended for our lives at times but then we started to get more into the game.

“Peacehaven were very complimentary about us afterwards and I’m chuffed to bits with the lads.

“I did say before the game that we had to keep it tight early on. The last time we went to a Division 1 team we conceded early at Sidley, were 3-0 down at half-time despite playing well, and ended up losing 5-0.

“It’s a really great draw for the winners to go to Eastbourne Borough and it would be great if we could go there.”

In a game of few clear chances, Blues’ best opportunity in the first half fell to James Bennett, with a near post header, while Ross Adams went close in the second period.

Blues are in cup action again on Saturday when they host Bexhill in the County League Division 2 Cup quarter-finals.

The winners will meet Storrington in the last four.

Torode said: “It’s a big game for us and we’re also still in the John O’Hara Cup where we play Lancing in the quarter-finals.

“The cup competitions keep the season going, which is nice.”

Blues have re-signed midfielder James Butt after he has returned from working abroad.

Rustington hope to have striker Steve Kirkham back from injury for Saturday’s match.

RUSTINGTON: McCarthy; Bennett, Neal, Sayers, Green; Adams, Wimbleton, Bibb, Hudson, Huckett; Boxall. Subs: Darwin (Adams 70), James (Wimbleton 85), Matthews (Boxall 105), Heater.