Woking's new era under Jermain Defoe got off to a dramatic start as they fought back from 3-1 down to draw 3-3 against Eastleigh. The match, played at Woking's home ground, saw the Cards take an early lead through Harry Beautyman's 16th-minute header. But Eastleigh, who had lost their last four matches, recovered in style, with Tunji Akinola's own goal on the stroke of half-time cancelling out Beautyman's strike. Jake Vokins gave Eastleigh the lead in the 70th minute, and Temitope Eweka bundled in a third from a corner. But Woking's players, spurred on by Defoe's substitutions, launched a late comeback, with Olly Sanderson heading in to reduce the deficit in the 77th minute. And then, with just five minutes left, Kian Pennant, one of Defoe's first substitutions, scored an 85th-minute leveller to earn Woking a point. The draw extends Woking's unbeaten home record in 2026. Defoe's first match in charge was always going to be closely watched, and he will be pleased with the spirit shown by his players. Woking's next match will be a tough test, but for now, they can take heart from their late comeback. The Cards' fans will be hoping that this is a sign of things to come under Defoe's management. With Pennant's late goal, Woking's players showed that they have the ability to fight back from adversity.