Eastleigh scored twice in 15 second half minutes to overturn a half-time deficit and end the 2021 phase of their National League campaign on a winning note by beating Torquay United 2-1.

The Boxing Day victory, which attracted a crowd of 2,730 to Stoneham Lane, consolidated a 13th mid-table spot on the log for the Spitfires, who get even more through the turnstiles when Weymouth visit on Sunday, 3pm.

They had to chase the game for 20 minutes either side of half-time when one-time Saints hopeful Armani Little fired the Gulls four ahead, writes Mike Vimpany.

But a penalty from Tom Whelan and a trademark Ty Barnett header turned the tide after the break.

Torquay, who had won three of their previous four matches, gradually gained the upper hand as the first half progressed and took a 32nd minute with Little's tenth NL goal of the season.

Little played twice for Southampton Under-21s in 2017, ironically alongside Eastleigh left-midfielder Jake Hesketh.

Torquay's number 10 found space in the box and fired his side into the lead at the near post.

That advantage was almost doubled ten minutes later, as a shot from range forced Spitfires keeper Joe McDonnell to palm the ball onto the bar.

The second half saw the Spitfires come out the traps with an intent to get back into the game, and they didn’t have to wait long to draw level.

Eight minutes after the break Whelan was fouled in the box and equalised from the awarded penalty, albeit off the upright.

Striking the inside of the post, the Eastleigh supporters were relieved to see the ball end up in the back of the Torquay net as Whelan wheeled off in celebration.

After this, the Spitfires looked in control and the most likely to take the lead. Barnett coming closest with an effort from range in the 57th minute.

Just past the hour mark, Eastleigh were in front.

Barnett was once again the player threatening, and saw his downwards header cross the line after MacDonald looked to spill the powerful effort into the Torquay net.

During the last 20 minutes, the Devon visitors looked for a way back but to no avail.

McDonnell was forced into a good save from Little in the 73rd minute and somehow the Spitfires managed to survive a scramble in the box with ten to go.

Winchester City's game on December 27 against Sholing was postponed because of a water-logged pitch.