Carshalton Athletic defender Alex Penfold claims he and his team-mates showed their mettle as the club progressed in the FA Cup this weekend.

A Sunday afternoon trip to Southern Counties East League outfit Erith & Belvedere saw the Robins trail 1-0 at half-time, but two goals in as many minutes after the break booked their trip to Pagham for a first qualifying round tie later this month.

And Penfold added the result was the perfect tonic following a dismal 3-0 league defeat away at Tooting & Mitcham United last week.

“We knew they’d be up for an FA Cup tie against higher league opposition but we didn’t shirk our duties," he said. 

"Everyone gave their all, plus we weren’t afraid to mix up our short and long game when required.

“They gave us a good test, although from our point of view I thought their goal was a bit soft, but we remained patient and got the win.”

New Carshalton signing Dan Summers got his side level with a 20-yard free kick on 66 minutes, before Tommy Bradford spectacularly put the Robins in front two minutes later with a close range overhead kick.

“It was great to see them both get on the scoresheet,” said Penfold.

“Dan is a positive signing by the management, and I’m sure he’ll contribute more moving forwards, but we must give him time to get used to his new surroundings.”

Carshalton travel to Hastings United this Saturday for a stern test against one of the Ryman Division One South’s early pacesetters, but Penfold is feeling confident.

“Everyone held their hands up after the Tooting game and we discussed what needed to be put right, which I think we begun to put into practice against Erith,” he added.

“Hastings will be a tough away trip but, if we play to our full potential, there is no reason why we can’t come back with a positive result."

Carshalton Athletic visit Hastings this Saturday (kick-off 3pm).