AFC SOLIHULL progressed in the Les James Challenge Cup as they came from 2-0 down to beat Fairfield Villa 3-2.
The first half of the clash was a drab affair with the swirling wind making it difficult for both teams to play.
However, with the wind behind them Fairfield found themselves camped in the Solihull half, albeit not creating many clear chances.
Solihull defended deep with their wing backs and were happy to hear the half-time whistle at 0-0.
It was not the greatest spectacle for the sizable crowd who had come out on Non-League Day, however, they would get more than their fair share of entertainment in the second half.
Solihull came out with more intent at the beginning of the half and finally had a few attacks of their own.
However, it was Fairfield who got their breakthrough in the 56th minute.
Solihull failed to clear their lines and former Bromsgrove striker Alfie Bloomer pounced to fire home a half volley from the edge of the area.
Even with the goal Solihull had threatened Fairfield enough for them to make changes.
Top scorer Connor Collins, who had been rested to the bench, was brought on just after hour mark.
And within two minutes of coming on he found space outside the Solihull box to curl home a powerful left-footed effort for his tenth goal of the season.
Fairfield now looked comfortable and likely to see the game out but Solihull had other ideas.
Five minutes later Solihull sub Joel Hughes crossed for Andy Matthews to head home and give the visitors a glimmer of hope.
With 20 minutes remaining Fairfield handed Solihull the initiative.
A short back pass left Villa keeper Josh Goddard stranded and Jon Hamer nicked the ball and sent himself wide before striking home a wonderful finish with the angle against him.
The last 20 minutes saw both sides giving their all for the winner.
It was looking as though penalties would be needed but Solihull struck in stoppage time to secure the win.
A hopeful ball through found Hamer who weaved in and out of two defenders before calmly placing a low shot into the net.
Solihull will meet Enville Athletic in the quarter-finals at a date yet to be confirmed.
Up next for Solihull is a Birmingham Vase clash away at Darlaston Town on Saturday.
