Twickenham Dream Comes to an End
RFU National Junior Vase  - Semi-Final
Saturday 1st May 2010

 
Evesham Rugby Club's hopes for finishing off their season at England's famous stadium have collapsed after their National Junior Vase Semi-Final defeat on Saturday.

The club proudly hosted Bramley Phoenix, who had travelled from Leeds with their drove of supporters. Having had a fantastic season so far, it seemed that they had been building for this day the whole time.

The game kicked off with everything on the table for both sides. Much to the home side's fans delight, it was Evesham who took the all too familiar early lead as Sam Garratt charged down a kick and caught it for a try before five minutes had passed.
The early 5-0 scoreline gave the hosts the confidence, but Bramley Phoenix were just getting warmed up. In response to the try, the visitor's defense tightened up, and they would not give way to any Evesham advances. Their rugby league experience aided them in tackling down the home side's offense at every opportunity. Bramley Phoenix challenged Evesham by playing much more intelligent rugby than they had been up against all season, and at 24 minutes punted a swift kick over the home defence and chased for their first try.

Evesham were showing off their strengths, dominating the scrum and lineout, but possession was repeatedly turned over by the Yorkshire side's quick thinking and sturdy tackles. It was only a few more minutes that Bramley Phoenix found a gap and ran a surprisingly quick break for another try. As the first half came to its closing minutes, the visitors were applying unrelenting pressure, and despite a valliant display of defence, another try on the wing was scored by Bramley Phoenix, converted to close the half at 5-17.

The crowd of Evesham fans hoped to see their team make a comeback after regrouping during the break. There was certainly no shortage of effort as the hosts' possession increased, and they tried every thinkable method of getting around their opponents' astounding defence. Unfortunately, none of their tactics, substitutions, or sheer eagerness made a difference, and it was Bramley Phoenix who yet again cleared their way for another unconverted try. With five minutes to go and a scoreboard of 5-22, we all knew it was over.

Congratulations to Evesham who made it to the final four teams in the country, and for putting everything they had into the game. A huge thanks goes to Evesham's home fans for all the support, and to Uttoxeter Rugby Club who also came along to support the victors of the Midlands final that they hosted back in April.

Finally, well done to Bramley Phoenix for an impressive show of rugby and the biggest game of the season. We wish them full success at the Twickenham final on May 15th.

Saturday's match was sponsored by Timothy Lea and Griffiths.
With one match to go, Evesham Rugby Club have more to play for, as they enter the final of the North Midlands Vase against Yardley on Sunday 9th May at Stourbridge RFC.

Chasing the Silverware!
Wednesday 14th April 2010

Evesham First XV finally made time to squeeze in the North Midlands RFU vase quarter final last Wednesday, playing an evening match under their recently installed floodlights against Tenbury Wells.

The team, having won the league the previous Saturday, were still recovering from their tough match against Keresley, and made hard work of earning a victory of 37-11.
The game commenced laboriously, with both sides making some sloppy errors in the basics. They were not alone though, as throughout the match we were to observe some more than questionable referee decisions.  Evesham were the first to scrape their way towards the visitors' try line, and Chris Evis looked to be in, but the try was disallowed and play was moved back to a scrum. This time Ben Holme was on hand to do what he is good at and put a try on the table, taking Evesham to 5-0.

Shortly after this, the hosts were awarded a penalty due to a Tenbury tackler playing the ball while on the ground. Mo Parkinson duly kicked for 8-0. Although the home side stood alone on the scoreboard, they were in no way comfortable in dominating the game. Tenbury were arduously making their way towards points of their own when when an alert Holme swooped in to steal the ball in his own 22 and sprint the distance of the pitch for another try.

Tenbury got their chance to come back, though, as an interjection of pace when it mattered saw them slice through the Evesham defence for their first try. The visitors tried to maintain this momentum, but the team work of Jamie Cameron and Chim Gale charging their next hopeful runner into touch soon put a damper on it. They were, nevertheless, soon awarded a penalty, scored by a very impressive Tenbury kicker for 13-8.

Evesham were pointedly unappreciative of the close nature of the game, and came back hard, grinding through Tenbury for a solid try from Craig Brotherton, converted by Parkinson.
While Tenbury were not hugely threatening, Evesham were doing nowhere near enough to put a convincing lead on the opposition. Tenbury were soon awarded another penalty, once more successfully kicked for 20-11.

After half time, Holme returned to his swift, sly ways, eluding tackles for his hat-trick just a breath from being in touch. Diston replaced Parkinson just in time for another Evesham opportunity; as Tenbury were penalised for being offside. The hosts played to their strengths, keeping the ball in hand and Richard Moger slid through a well spotted gap for a try. Diston converted making the score 32-11. 

As the game drew on, play got messy on both sides but Holme kept his cool to make it over the line one more time for the last try of the match, an acceptable 37-11 to take the team to the semi finals of the North Midlands RFU Vase. The game will be played against Aldridge RFC on Saturday 24th April.  Wednesday's special floodlit game was sponsored by Simon Vaux Property Rentals. 

On a lower note, Evesham's winning streak of more than twenty games was broken on Saturday by a league game against Pinley. The team was different to the regular line up, as coach Gary Diston elected to rest some players. The change in dynamic clearly showed in the 24-8 loss, however the game was of little significance since Evesham secured the first place in the  league in the previous week.

Evesham Seal the Deal with League Victory
Evesham RFC Midlands 4 West (South) League Champions 2009/2010
Saturday 10th April 2010

Just a week after winning the Midlands Junior Vase, Evesham 1st XV have done it again. After defeating Keresley on their own ground 17-34, Evesham are undefeated champions of the Midlands Four West (South) league.

Evesham were already fairly safe in the title, as only a severe upset for remaining games would change the possibilities, but everything was to play for in the eyes of Keresley RFC, who are fighting it out with Coventry Welsh for second place and league promotion.

Their fervour for victory was soon tantalised when they caught the ball after kick off, but made the mistake of choosing a path within reach of Kerren Lippett, who snatched the ball and rampaged across the field, flattening a number of defenders before going down. He skillfully fed the ball back for it to be quickly recycled, allowing Ben Holme to finish the job with a double fake which left the Keresley player dizzy and gave him space to take an early try. Mo Parkinson converted.

Only minutes later Stewart Smart picked up and sharply passed to Chris Evis, who ensured that the ball made it back to the trustworthy hands of Holme, who couldn't help but go for another textbook try, for 0-12. Even in this early stage, the abnormally warm weather had most of the players low on energy, but Richard Moger showed off his endurance abilities as soon as he got his chance, covering more than half the field without interruption to score the visiting side's third try, converted once again to put the score at 0-19 to Evesham, all within ten minutes.

Keresley could feel the game slipping quickly away from them, which served to increase their blood thirsty nature. Some over eagerness resulted in a yellow card for the home side, but didn't stop them pushing the boundaries of Evesham's defence.

Jamie Cameron and Ben Whatmore came into their own now, presenting a stunning defensive drive every time a Keresley hand touched the ball.  Even when a host player slipped through Evesham's solid defence, his hesitation in deciding not to pass to his team mate allowed Jason Smith to blaze in behind him and tear him down, turning the ball over in the process. Despite all of Evesham's players having excellent independent games, the last ten minutes of the first half showed them not to be operating fluidly as a team
in the way we are used to observing. This gave Keresley the opportunity they needed to make a swift come back, punching holes in the visitors' line to break through for their opening converted try.

With some confidence back in tow, the home team kept testing Evesham, which eventually paid off as a row of missed tackles gave way for another Keresley try, converted by their impressive kicker to close the half at a surprisingly close 14-19.

Both teams had really needed the rest, and now returned with refreshed urgency. Keresley's scrum was undeniably dominating, but Evesham were visibly lighter footed, outpacing the hosts where it mattered. More bad luck for the visitors, as a penalty was conceded to Keresley, predictably kicked bringing the score uncomfortably close at 17-19.
This was finally enough to motivate Evesham back into working as a team, and Carl Robinson came on form making an incredible break through the centre, and passing to Holme for his hat-trick.

The battle was in full swing, as the hosts attempted an immediate comeback, and were within reach of success when Rick Taylor made a try saving tackle, putting the opposition in to touch. After seventy minutes, Holme unbelievably still had enough gas in the tank to tear across the best part of the field, before the team proved that they had come together, passing accurately through James Bowen, Jim Moulton and back to Robinson who dummy passed to daze the opposition into opening the way for his try, confidently converted by Taylor for 17-31. Taylor's kicking leg did the job for three more points, as Keresley conceded a penalty for playing the ball illegally, bringing the final score to 17-34. 

It was a tighter game than could have been expected, but highlighted individual performances such as Evis's great creation of position with well chosen kicks and Moger's casual dodging of the opposition's tired defense earned the win for Evesham, and gave them title of as yet undefeated league winners.

The game was sponsored by Icke & co. Chartered Accountants.

Evesham Triumph in Midlands Title
Evesham RFC Midlands Junior Vase Champions 2009/2010
Saturday 3rd April 2010

Evesham snatched success in the Midlands Junior Vase cup last Saturday, attaining the championship cup with an 11-21 victory.
The team travelled to Uttoxeter, Staffordshire together with their larger than ever gang of supporters on two coaches. Though there were concerns that a two hour journey would take some pep out of the team, the excitement kept the atmosphere alive for all.

Uttoxeter had provided a fantastic set up to welcome their rivals for the day, and genuinely extended a friendly feeling. The crowd expressed a true cup final cheer as Evesham First XV arrived at the pitch.

The team was made up of: front row Jamie Cameron, Luke Matthews and John Hopkins, second row David Scott and Ben Whatmore, flankers Henry Webb and Craig Brotherton, number eight Stewart Smart, scrum half Chris Evis, fly half Mike Diston, centres James Bowen and Carl Robinson, wingers Darren Hunter and Richard Moger and fullback Chim Gale. Ready and waiting were substitutes Mo Parksinson, Rick Taylor, Kerren Lippett, Paul Turpitt, Dave Marsh, Jason Smith, Sam Garret and coach Gary Diston.

The game was anybody's guess at kick off; uncertainty increased by the teams leading their equivalent leagues, so each was testing the ground, sizing up the opponents' skill range.
While we were just getting comfortable, a Uttoxeter player was penalised for holding on to the ball while on the ground, and Evesham were blessed with an early penalty, allowing Diston to put the all important first three points on the score board.

Uttoxeter boasted a large pack, so the first scrum was a tense affair. Evesham held their ground, but did not immediately push on as we had hoped. This did not cause a problem however, as the visitors went on playing their simple rugby and awaited another mistake from Uttoxeter, who were unfortunate to concede another penalty. Diston did this justice making the score 0-6 to Evesham. Gale found a good chance to stretch his legs, but was put in to touch tantalisingly close to scoring.

While the visitors had a slight upper hand at this stage, the hosts kept on coming, and were proving to be especially experienced in the lineout, providing an impressive challenge for Evesham's jumpers. A high tackle meant that Garratt came on as a blood replacement, bringing with him great energy and a solid withstanding of tackles. The home side nevertheless were drawing in, making it a bad moment for Bowen to be yellow carded for an offside offence. Uttoxeter kicked the penalty they were awarded, shortening Evesham's lead to 3-6.

Following the points, the hosts took advantage of their one man overlap and immediately restarted the onslaught, closing in on the try line. They passed Evesham's sturdy defence once, but to a group sigh of relief the touch judge flagged at the last moment, so the try was disallowed.
Things went from bad to worse as Gale was also sin binned, so now it was down to the visitors to struggle two men down against a continuous assault from Uttoxeter. As the minutes remaining of the half ticked down, Evesham's sheer desire for this win became all too apparent, as we saw the most ambitious, committed tackles of the season coming from Matthews, Webb and Robinson. Somehow they held off the attackers and the half finally ended.

A hard earned breather meant that the refreshed visiting side could regain control of the game, despite being low in numbers. A skillful cross field kick from Evis provided Evesham with an ideal lineout opportunity, not far from the opposition's try line. Whatmore and Scott handled this to perfection under pressure, timing the jump precisely and cleanly taking the throw, before sending the ball into the hands of the teams captain, Cameron, who scored the first try of the day, bringing his squad to the slightly more comfortable score of 3-11.

Uttoxeter were not about to let this slip away from them, responding to Evesham success with pressure as the game resumed. This paid off, as Evesham panicked, and the ball was kicked out far too close to Evesham's try line. Even back up to a full team, this resulted in Uttoxeter scoring a try, unconverted for 8-11.

Hopkins had worked wonders putting his strength into the forward play, and now made room for Lippett to come on and match the performance. This he did, as off the back of an unmoving scrum came a pass into Diston's hands. He chose his line with absolute confidence and did not look back even once, trusting the likes of Bowen to run his straight lines and put holes in the defence, as Diston took the ball in for a try. 

It was Marsh's turn to come on now, showing off his speed and sound tactical decisions. On the game went, with Brotherton giving his signature crunching tackles and Hunter fearlessly wrapping himself around the attackers' legs to drag them to ground, but it wasn't too much longer before the leaders conceded a penalty, for which Uttoxeter gladly kicked the three points, maintaining a nail biting 11-16.

Smith joined the game fresh to make an impression on the remaining minutes, giving the scrum an extra boost and providing excellent support to the team. With time running short, Moger made a break up the wing, knocking an opposing player flying out of the way with a simple handoff, much to the away crowd's verbalised pleasure. He wasn't done knocking things down yet, as in the last play of the match, he charged down Uttoxeter's final desperate kick, punting it forward to bounce within range of Smart. Smart made an incredible catch and touched down for the concluding points, now 11-21.

The team would like to thank those who followed to support them in Uttoxeter for the huge backing, and for out-shouting the home side's fans, even when outnumbered five to one. All of our thanks also go to Uttoxeter for providing a splendid day and a thoroughly enjoyable spectacle of rugby.

This title is only phase one in Evesham's master plan for total success this season, as their victory in this cup earns them their spot in the semi finals of the national competition; placing them now just one win from playing at Twickenham stadium. The semi final fixture will be played against Bramley Phoenix on Saturday 24th April. They have also won all of their league games, guaranteeing promotion, and they look good to go on to win the league, unbeaten if they continue on such fine form.

The game was proudly sponsored by T.K. Construction Ltd.

Evesham Stoke the Flames of Victory
Saturday 27th March 2010

Evesham Rugby 1st XV have maintained a flawless record throughout the Midlands Four West (South) league table this season, and Saturday's defeat of Stoke Old Boys marked the lads' guaranteed promotion into the league above. It is the first of many marked successes the team are hopeful for, as they stand only one win away from winning the
league outright, and are also strong contenders in two cup competitions, one of which could climax at Twickenham.

In the opening minutes of the  props John Hopkins and Kerren Lippett set the benchmark for powerful tackles, only for their efforts to go to waste as Stoke were awarded a penalty, swiftly kicked to put the hosts 3-0 up.
Evesham were dominating possession, but struggled to make their way over the swamped field to finish their moves. Nine minutes in Evesham got the chance they were looking for as they were awarded a scrum well within Stoke's 22 metre line. The pack miracualously found grip to hold the scrum strong, and the ball was skillfully passed out to Richard Moger who crunched Evesham onto the scoreboard, making it 3-5.
After some more exhaustive muddy antics, David Scott took an exquisite lineout ball, passed to Chim Gale who provided all the leg work any team could ask for, before passing to Mike Diston to score both the try and the conversion.
Amidst the chaos, James Bowen became a tackling machine, putting any opposing runs to the dirt before they could make any progress. Carl Robinson had been doing little more than enjoying himself until this point, but as a dangerous move from an Old Boy player resulted in a yellow card, he was more than happy to take advantage of the overlap, chasing down a kick to score a converted try to make it 3-19.

As play restarted, Chris Evis precisely kicked the ball into touch to provide a lineout in an optimum position for Evesham. Naturally, the lineout was won by the visitors, and went to the ground for a maul. Just short of the line, the ball was passed back into the capable hands of Robinson, who calmly scored the last try of the half, converted by Diston.
Stoke were marching on furiously, sporadically trying kick goals and valliant break aways, but could not find the finishing formula. Robinson, on the other hand, still had his magic ingredients and went for the hat-trick after an accurate row of passes. Another successful conversion saw Evesham safely away at 3-33.

Stewart Smart was having a fantastic second half, pulling the lineout together and providing stunning supportive play all over the park. It was this sort of behaviour that laid strong foundations for yet another try from Robinson, once again converted. An aggressive response to Evesham's success resulted in a second yellow card for Stoke, serving to provide further opportunities for the visitors to pick at the holes in the opposition's defense. Scott was pleased to find the gap, playing a calculated game to land a brilliant try.
As the end neared, Matt Grove made his way to success, but his last second pass was intercepted with a deliberate knock on from a Stoke player. Evesham confidently continued pressing for the try, and the ball ended with Bowen, who had deserved this corner score for the whole game, making it 3-50.

Stoke Old Boys, resolute not to go down easily, came back with a hard earned try, but it was rapidly cancelled out as Gale had the last laugh, and the last five points, concluding the game at 8-55.  

Evesham anticipate one of the biggest games in the club's history next Saturday, as they travel to Uttoxeter in the final of the midlands round of the National Junior Vase. Success in this game will bring them to the semi final of the national level, bringing Twickenham dreams tantalisingly close.
Saturday's match ball was kindly sponsored by P.J Turpitt electrical services.

Two Tries for Parkinson
Saturday 27th March 2010

Evesham started off strongly away at Worcester with some hard running from forwards Joe Worth and Clive Smart. After some clever play from fullback Rick Taylor he found winger Charlie Stanley in space who finished well for the 1^st try of the match, which was converted by Mike O’Laughlin. A few minutes later Sam Hopkins found fly half Maurice Parkinson who powered through to score an impressive try and the 2^nd of the game.

Lords of the Manor
Saturday 20th March 2010

It was another terrific victory for Evesham First XV on Saturday as they effortlessly thrashed Manor Park 53-0 in the latest Midlands 4 West (South) league fixture.

Manor Park proudly stand third in the table, suggesting Evesham might have had a challenge, but the hosts momentum appears to have become too much for any opponent.
The home side kicked off playing a deceptively simple game. As in so many games of the season, this caught the visitors before they had a chance to rally and granted Ben Holme an opening from the halfway line to score within the first two minutes, converted by Mike Diston.

Although this suggested that the hosts would have no trouble repeating the action, it was some time before either team made any real progress. Then, out of nowhere Chim Gale spiced up play, suddenly surging through the opposing line without so much as a handoff being necessary. This pleasantly surprising try brought the hosts to 12-0.

Evesham really switched on now, and it was only minutes later that Matt Grove found himself all alone with the ball and three defenders after taking the initiative to chase. He dodged past the defence with ease and put another five points on the scoresheet.

Although Evesham were yet to truly shine in their lineout or scrummage, players were communicating well and the likes of Craig Brotherton, Henry Webb and Luke Matthews were tearing through, around and even straight over Manor Park's players in order to make ground. All of the added solitary efforts paid off as they created the opportunity for Holme to find the gap up the outside. He perfectly chose his moment to pass inwards to Carl Robinson, who reliably scored the try. Diston converted for 24-0.

Thirty minutes in Grove made another swift break, fooling the fans into applause, but the try was disallowed thanks to a keen eyed touch judge. Manor Park took their turn to test Evesham's defence now, making their first real run of the game. The hosts' line was threatened, however Evesham intensified the pressure and forced the visitors into errors, ensuring that they were unable to maintain control. The home side, clearly dissatisfied with relying on the mistakes of their competitors, turned the challenge around
as the ball once again landed in the hands of Gale,  whose ten metre strides made short work of the pitch and took him in for a dramatic finish, setting the scoreboard at 29-0.

Less than a minute later, Evesham charged back onto the offense, allowing Diston to take advantage of Manor Park's disorientation for a try of his own.
With a minute of the half remaining, Grove took another chance to snatch some points, but fell just short. Play called for a scrum, and thanks to Darren Hunter generously applying pressure by coming around the scrum at the very earliest legal opportunity, the ball was returned to Grove who succeeded in scoring, converted to close the half at 41-0.

The first ten minutes of the second half were greatly slowed by a turn in the weather. A heavy shower had a negative effect on both teams' game, slowing Evesham's signature speedy game and causing sloppy handling for all players. The home side camped this out on Manor Park's try line though, and it was only a matter of waiting for the moment before John Hopkins landed the try. 

Many laboured slips and curses later, Paul Turpitt chose his line up the wing, utilizing his superior stamina to outpace Manor Park's exhausted players, before passing to Gale who had the last try of the match, converted to close scoring at 53-0. Manor Park struggled on valliantly, but when the referee called time it was them to kick the ball out of play,
indicating that they had taken quite enough of Evesham's relentless assault.

Evesham First XV are looking very likely to win the Midlands 4 West (South) league and are well on track to challenge for the Junior National Vase, giving fans have a lot to look forward to in the coming weeks. 
Saturday's match ball was sponsored by Create Design and Print.

Evesham Face the Midland Finals
Saturday 13th March 2010

Evesham have succeeded in battling their way through to the final of the Midlands Junior Vase after a close win on Saturday. The team, also unbeaten in the Midlands 4 West (South) league table, travelled to face the notorious Pinley for the highly anticipated clash.

Evesham were keen to score early points to gain a quick advantage and played an offensive opening game, however some hard knocks prevented the first few attempts for the try line from being successful. It wasn’t long until the visitors found their feet again though, as Matt Grove chose an unpredictable line to take the ball straight through Pinley’s defences, passing to Ben Holme who scored, putting Evesham 5-0 up.
Pinley responded with strong attacking tactics and after a few bids to break the visitors’ solid defence, obtained a scrum barely 15 metres from Evesham’s try line. This all happened too quickly for the leaders and resulted in a home try, unconverted.
Evesham were undeterred and kept huge pressure focussed on Pinley, constantly probing for weaknesses and mistakes. A gap was inevitably found, as Evesham initiated a flawless line of passes, which concluded in Carl Robinson’s first touch on the ball. Result? A try, of course! This was converted by Mike Diston putting Evesham back on top for 12-5.

By this point, the loyal Evesham fans were playing as the sixteenth man, driving the scrum forward and giving lineout jumpers Stewart Smart and David Scott the extra lift they needed to control both teams’ throws. The squad was resolute not to give Pinley any breathing room and collapsed any momentum the hosts tried to gather. The pressure paid off, as Pinley conceded a penalty which, despite the high wind, Diston swiftly scored, increasing Evesham’s confidence with the score at 15-5.

The intense game continued, with play racing from one end of the field to the other. While each team looked keen to score, both sides’ defensive lines held strong, keeping the crowd guessing. It was only in the last play of the half that Pinley shook things up, courageously kicking a goal from Evesham’s 22. The half ended at 15-8. 

In the opening moments of the second half, the hosts came back displaying fearsome strength, and despite the pack thus far holding the upper hand, this time Pinley initiated a maul and drove the visitors back over their own line and touched down for a try, thankfully unconverted for 15-13.

This was all too close for comfort, a feeling Evesham have not had much experience of throughout their unbeaten season record. They came back with an onslaught power, playing to their strengths as backs Grove, Robinson and Chim Gale repeatedly sped across the park, handing off those who stood in their way. It was only the ending that Evesham
could not master, and we were disappointed to see every chanced thwarted just a few metres from success. It was much this way for the remaining time, Pinley’s only response being to kick the ball away once they regained possession, giving Evesham the chance to start all over again. It was only the last play that broke this cycle, as Evesham conceded a penalty on the halfway line. The ever supportive audience went silent for the first time. Although the home teams kicker had not yet succeeded in one conversion or penalty, terror struck that this could be his moment. An audible sigh of relief was issued as, true to form, the penalty was missed and the game ended at the tantalizing 15-13 to Evesham. 

This puts our local 1st XV through to the Midlands Junior Vase final against Uttoxeter away, and keeps the Twickenham dream very much alive as they now stand just two wins from playing at the stadium in the National Junior Vase final.

Evesham's Latest Legends
Saturday 6th March 2010

Evesham Rugby Club hosted their Legends Day on Saturday, highlighted by the latest Midlands West 4 (South) league clash between Evesham First XV and Dudley Wasps.

A great crowd turnout provided an exciting atmosphere from kick off. Dudley clearly knew what a force they were up against as they started the game in full throttle, trying to beat Evesham down before they gained their infamous momentum. It was not to be, however, as their over eagerness resulted in some indiscipline and a penalty for Evesham, which Mike Diston succeeded in scoring. Diston, not content in having points given to him so lightly, went on to score a try from an impressive lineout steal and convert it himself, giving the hosts a 10-0 lead.

Now nicely warmed up, the home side were pressurizing Dudley at every possession, providing those extra all important opportunities to increase the points difference. Carl Robinson was next to capitalise on such an opportunity, making a risky break and knocking down the defending line without hesitation. Robinson’s impressive try was converted by Diston.

It was soon the visitors’ turn for some points as they were awarded a penalty, but Evesham were not willing to allow them to triumph for long. Robinson, still hot, unexpectedly greeted a lone Dudley player, stole the ball and passed to Chim Gale who bolted for a converted try, bringing us to 24-3.

Playing an all round strong game, Evesham’s communication was providing great control in the scrum. This was lost just once, but Gale sharply caught the ball on a bounce and passed to Robinson, who returned the earlier favour with another converted try. Much to the viewers’ pleasure, the half closed with Luke Matthews and Craig Brotherton putting in some crushing tackles, putting Dudley noticeably on the back foot for the start of the second half. A high level of aggression from both sides resulted in a yellow card each, presenting a possibility for a shift of balance, but the game continued uneventfully.

In an attempt to freshen the game up, Evesham made several consecutive substitutions. This eventually paid off as some excellent team work provided Gale with another chance to take a try, putting the scoreboard at 36-3.

Dudley Wasps retaliated unpredictably, trying their luck on some long break through runs, but to no avail as Darren Hunter reclaimed the ball. He completed the groundwork, but Matt Grove was ready and waiting to bring the ball home, ending the game at 41-3.

The match ball was sponsored by P.J. Nicholls Ltd.

Debut Try for Robinson!
Saturday 27th February 2010

Evesham’s highly successful firsts team hosted Stoke Old Boys on Saturday in the latest Midlands Four West (South) league fixture, following a week off due to poor pitch conditions.
The visitors, lacking some of their normal players, started weakly as Evesham’s kick off was successfully chased and regained into home possession. Within seconds the confident home players were on the full offence and Carl Robinson swept past the stunned opponents for the first try of what was to be a busy game. Mike Diston wasted no time in converting for a speedy 7-0 lead.

When play recommenced, Evesham had little trouble reclaiming possession and Rick Taylor allowed barely a five minute interval before taking his turn at scoring a try, converted by Diston.

Stoke had a chance at making up some ground now, but struggled to break Evesham’s line and eventually conceded a penalty for not rolling away, which Diston was happy to score bringing the leaders 17-0 up. 

The game was becoming increasingly one sided, as Stewart Smart claimed lineout ball even from Stoke’s most questionable of throws. Although they didn’t lose spirit, simple lack of possession gave winger Ben Holme his first opportunity to step the defences for an unconverted try.
In response to Evesham’s irrepressible attack, Stoke tried to hold things up with a maul, but Holme was still in the zone and intercepted the pass out for another slick try, converted for 29-0.

The visitors desperately needed some recovery time from Evesham’s unstoppable scoring line, and showed their strength in holding the scrum steady. Despite this, they were just too slow to stop Darren Hunter from taking a swift pass off the scrum and showing off his impossible speed in sidestepping several Stoke backs on a long run to the try line. Diston naturally made the conversion.

As the second half commenced, Stoke pointedly tried to influence the game to more forward play, clearly unaware that the home sides’ forwards were just as keen to put points on the board as the backs. Craig Brotherton educated them to this, fighting his way over the line for 41-0.
Stoke Old Boys were fast running out of ideas, as prop Kerren Lippett took his chance for a try, but was held up. This only served to delay the inevitable though, as Matt Grove took the pass from the resulting scrum in for a try.

The hosts showed no signs of easing off, continuing to apply pressure in all stages of play and displaying all the speed, stamina and control we have come to appreciate in the season so far. Their never-ending accuracy in passes resulted in another opportunity for Holme, who claimed his hat-trick for the day. Diston reliably converted for 53-0.
Still not satisfied, Holme provided excellent support for a run from Chim Gale, taking the pass and scoring his fourth try, converted once again.
The end could not come quickly enough for Stoke, but Evesham were determined to have one last say as Captain Jamie Cameron tore through the exhausted defence, scoring the final five points and finalizing the scoreboard at 65-0.

Stoke Old Boys maintained their desire for victory throughout, but taking on Evesham in their current form was always heading for one result.
Saturday’s match ball was sponsored by Mark Turpitt Cars Ltd.

Top Meets Bottom - The Table Says It All
Saturday 6th February 2010

Report by Vicky Webb  

The Midlands Four West (South) league leaders proved to us how they obtained their standing on Saturday, thrashing Birmingham Exiles 47-0.

The fairly uneventful opening minutes saw the Exiles trying their luck, threatening within scoring territory, however nothing was to come of it. Players were all too aware of the chasm separating the teams in table standings, so the pressure free home side could take their time.

It wasn’t too long before Richard Moger set the ball rolling, convincingly faking a pass before charging for the opening try, putting Evesham 5-0 up.

In a seemingly panicked response, Birmingham gave away two offside penalties in quick succession, which Mike Diston reliably put between the posts.

Evesham were building up momentum by this point, displaying obvious domination in all tiers of play, and an opportunity inevitably arose for Ben Holme to get

possession and break away for a converted try, making it 18-0.

Taking advantage of Birmingham’s slightly passive number four jumper, Dave Scott was able consistently claim most of the lineout ball, giving the hosts those all important extra chances.

In a moment of desperation, an Exiles back row player was issued with a yellow card for an illegal move in the ruck, sin binned just in time for the first half’s whistle.

As play recommenced, it seemed like the visitors were far more than one man down. Evesham returned showing intensified strength, putting the opposition on the floor with truly potent tackles. Chris Evis was kicking the ball into all the right spaces, providing great opportunities for the home side to chase.

Matt Grove picked up and covered the groundwork, before passing to Holme, who took it in for his second try of the day.

The visitors maintained their motivation throughout, yet the generously applied pressure of a tactical chase by Darren Hunter forced them to kick the ball out within their own 22. A fumble quickly lead to a Birmingham scrum, which Evesham pushed their way over to regain possession. Stewart Smart brought the ball around the side, looking certain for a try, but was stopped inches from success by a committed defending tackle.

This was to no avail though, as from the next scrum Evesham made use of their quick passing skills across the width of the field, and Grove claimed the resulting try, converted by Diston for 30-0.

The hosts showed no signs of stopping at the restart, immediately nudging the ball out close to the visitor’s try line. An unsuspecting winger opted for a quick lineout, but failed to see Holme darting in to chip the ball up, catch it, and carry it the distance for his hat-trick. Diston duly converted.

Holme, having met his quota, called it a day and was substituted for Chim Gale, who wasted no time making his mark on the game. His first near try was disallowed for a forward pass, his second for being held up, but it was third time lucky as he finally sprinted in for an indisputable score in the corner.

Evesham weren’t done yet, as to top things off, sharp scrum half Hunter expertly intercepted Birmingham’s pass off a scrum, racing across the opposition’s half for the last points of the game.

Birmingham Exiles endured the game with a great attitude, but in the end it was always going to be down to the difference in league positions, and Evesham’s chance to point out the difference, which turned out to be 47 points to nil.

Saturday’s match ball was sponsored by Spot Loggins Ice Cream.

Kicked into Quarters
Saturday 6th February 2010

Report by Vicky Webb  
 
Evesham 1st XV overcame the biggest challenge of their season so far on Saturday, with a 9-3 win against Oadby Wyggestonians nudging them through to the quarter finals of the National Vase.

A fine turnout of spectators meant the atmosphere was lively from the start, as was the rugby. We saw no hesitation from the closely matched teams in exchanging first blows, but it was the visitors who claimed the majority of earlypossession and applied pressure on Evesham's defense.

Some sturdy tackles from the likes of Luke Matthews and Craig Brotherton dampened Oadby's onslaught, giving the hosts precious time to get back on the offense.
Evesham began to concentrate and events started to play out as planned; the scrum showed us just how fiercely Jamie Cameron and Kerren Lippett could drive the pack forward, unnerving the guest side. This shift of power seemed to throw Oadby off balance briefly, allowing a penalty to be awarded to Evesham. Mike Diston took his cue and kicked
Evesham's way to a 3-0 lead.

The visitors swooped back into action following this unexpected score, and soon influenced an Evesham player to kick for a lineout dangerously close to his own try line. A skillful steal from David Scott terminated Oadby'shopes on this run, and the ball was kicked into the clear.
Evesham displayed consistently impressive defense for the rest of the half, halting every one of Oadby's advances.

The hosts' return to the game was unfortunately undisciplined and a penalty was almost immediately submitted to the Wyggestonians, evening the score.
When play recommenced, Dave Marsh saw his chance and made a sharp break with the ball. He passed to Matt Grove, who looked optimistic, but was dragged into touch at the last moment and the crowd were still left thirsty for a try.

Oadby hadn't learnt from their earlier mistake and conceded another penalty, much to the pleasure of Diston's kicking foot. This put Evesham back on top at 6-3.
Both teams were playing on a long string of victories, unbeaten in their league tables, so neither was showing signs of easing off. The surprisingly eloquent banter of the crowd combined with the unpredictable back and forth of play presented possibly the most animated game Evesham has hosted this season.

The locals really grasped possession towards the end, and with time ticking away all too quickly for Oadby, a panicked late tackle on Marsh as he closed in on the try line provided one more penalty for the hosts, readily put between the posts by Diston, finalizing the score at 9-3. The rapid play continued without points for the remaining minutes, however there was never a dull moment as we saw Evesham flaunt some of the most committed tackles we have seen all season. It was refreshing to see a tough team like Oadby Wyggestonians bring out the best in the local side, and we'd all like to see it continue with Evesham into the quarter finals. Saturday's match ball was sponsored by Allchurch Bailey & co.
 

Local Teams are Worlds Apart
Saturday 30th January 2010

Report by Vicky Webb

Evesham continued their glorious campaign in the Midlands Four West (South) league last Saturday, destroying Alcester 9-41.

Evesham began the game uncertainly; being a side so unused to losing this season made Alcester’s immediate pressure an unexpected assault. As an Alcester player crossed the try line, Evesham’s defending players were practically falling over each other to push the near-scorer into touch.

Whilst regrouping from this lucky escape, Evesham conceded a penalty which Alcester were quick to take, putting the hosts up to a 3-0 lead.

Play recommenced, as did the clumsiness and errors from both teams. It was far from the smooth spectacle of rugby we had come to expect from the unbeaten side, but eventually Evesham’s determination won out and Ben Holme made use of his speed to score the game’s first try, converted by Mike Diston.

A pause for injuries put a stop to any possibility of momentum, and even the daring breakaway of Alex Jackson wasn’t enough to bring Evesham more points. Further sloppy antics from the visitors presented Alcester with two penalty kicks in quick succession, turning the game back around to 9-7.

This wake up call came just in time, as in the closing minutes of the first half Evesham made excellent use of the width of the field and Matt Grove found himself open for a try. This ended the half seeing the out-of-towners back at a comforting 9-12.

The guests took the break to rally their ranks, and re-entered the game back up to their usual tricks. Alcester also looked to be returning with a mind to attack, but hitting the brick wall that was Luke Matthews put a sudden stop to this. The hosts’ dazed side took too long to recover and Grove once again slipped through for his second try, converted by Diston for 9-19.

The difference in levels of confidence alone became hugely visible, with Ben Whatmore’s valiant leadership of the forwards winning many opportunities for the guests. What had previously appeared to be an even scrum was now powerfully driven forward by Captain Jamie Cameron and prop John Hopkins to crush the opposition’s effort. The lineout, which jumper Stewart Smart had kept consistently successful since kick-off, only added insult to Alcester’s injuries, giving them even fewer opportunities for possession.

This fearsome combination allowed Evesham the liberty to show off with some fancy moves. Mo Parkinson kicked high for the team to chase, which led to a handoff to Dave Scott producing a solid try.

Within just a few minutes the visitors’ storm returned to bog down Alcester’s defence, where a risky kick from Chris Evis popped the ball over a maul, actuating a frantic chase for Diston to land the try, and a score of 9-29.

The home side were overcome with exasperation, and subsequent to an unnecessary display of this feeling from Alcester’s number 8, the referee had no choice but to provide him with a red card.

Coach Gary Diston joined the game to replace the bleeding Craig Brotherton, and showboated his finest dummy run while Cameron charged in for a converted try.

It was Evesham’s playground from here, as the team seemed consumed in an internal competition to provide the biggest crowd-pleaser; the winner indisputably being Dave Scott miraculously disabling two opposing players at the same time.

It came to a lineout close to Alcester’s try line, and every visitor looked ready to score as the final onslaught commenced. Evesham’s undeniably faster game play gave them one more chance to show how quickly and accurately they can execute passes along the width of the pitch, before Mike Diston claimed the last five points.

Mother Nature Can't Dampen Evesham Spirit!
Saturday 23rd January 2010

Report by Vicky Webb - Evesham Observer

Evesham effortlessly maintained their flawless league record last weekend with a 46-8 win against Rugby Welsh.

Undeterred by the waterlogged home pitch, Evesham relocated the game to the Prince Henry’s High School field to hold the fixture.

Following the previous successful result against the Rugby Welsh side, the hosts initiated play with confidence, immediately barraging the visitors with threats to the try line. Evesham’s lineout was strong from the offset, allowing no wasted time for flanker Stewart Smart to snatch the opposition’s ball. Rugby Welsh tried to slip into the same gear, but only managed to block the first few advances before Ben Holme stretched his legs and gave Evesham their first try.

Apparently, this caught the visitors off guard, and while they recovered Holme continued his offence. Within minutes he was rewarded with another speedy try. Mike Diston converted to put Evesham 12-0 in the lead.

The home side’s enthusiasm was a little excessive, however, as a penalty was conceded to Rugby Welsh, prompting them onto the score card.

This brought the opposition to life, earning them some tough clashes against the league leaders. Despite this, the tension gave in and a co-operative line of passes gave Matt Grove the opportunity to continue on from last week’s rich scoring vein, bringing the score to 17-3.

Evesham took advantage of the comfortable lead, and some advice from head coach Gary Diston tightened up the scrums allowing them to make some real ground. Chris Evis maintained an invaluable link between forward and back play, providing the communication necessary for such dynamic teamwork. Fantastic supportive play made it inevitable that the leaders would break through again, sending Mo Parkinson rushing over the try line. Mike Diston executed another precise kick for the conversion.

Rugby Welsh were reluctant to give up, yet their efforts resulted only in offside play. Evesham opted for a quick take and Rick Taylor cut across for a try to finish the first half off in style. Diston’s conversion brought the score to 31-3.

The half time break did nothing to slow down Evesham’s momentum, as in the opening seconds Dave Scott and Kerren Lippett showed unrelenting strength in crushing the opposing tackles. Parkinson made a swift break and a smooth inside pass to Henry Webb resulted in yet another try.

When play resumed, Rugby Welsh aimed for a defensive play, kicking to clear their half, but some nice tactical planning from Mike Diston countered this. A quick lineout made up unexpected metres, and we saw Parkinson rolling back the years to scrape over the line and once again relish in the taste of the dirt past the posts.

Evesham became a little too comfortable with their lead, and an ever keen Rugby Welsh player made a sharp break for a score, tackled by alert winger Holme mere metres from success.

The visitors couldn’t do much more than hold Evesham off by this stage, as even when they claimed possession they were subject to the fearless tackles of Craig Brotherton.

Their stand couldn’t last forever, and soon Jim Bowen submitted a long floating pass to land in the eager hands of Grove, ready for his next try.

Now 46-3 in the lead, Evesham found themselves winding down in spite of the resolve the visitors displayed. Rugby Welsh took every chance they could, and were granted a try for their resolve.

The 46-8 victory over Rugby Welsh serves to acknowledge that Evesham have flown back into form and supports expectations for their undefeated run to continue.

Saturday’s match ball was sponsored by Everatt & Co.

Hat Trick for Groves
Saturday 16th January 2010

Evesham ventured out to Rugeley, Staffordshire last weekend to challenge for the fourth round of the National Junior Vase. The fixture came after a long stint of cancelled matches due to the unpredictable weather conditions.

Each team weighed up the other with some scrappy first encounters, and it was unclear who would begin with the upper hand. While we all expected to see our league leading team take some more time to recover the dynamic build up from a long chain of victories, they seemed determined to prove us wrong with Matt Grove breaking loose for a welcome early try.
The home team responded hastily however, applying enough pressure to creep dangerously close to Evesham’s try line. A smooth kick from Mo Parkinson cleared the way though, giving Evesham some breathing room to return to the game plan.

The play rocked back and forth, with Evesham using their sharp technique to burst across the field, while Rugeley dug in their heels and pushed steadily back. One wild ball caused tension for the away side’s spectators, but we were relieved to see Ex-Youth Paul Turpitt race to the ball ahead of Rugeley’s winger.
Although the visiting side’s back line defended solidly, the hosts took their chance and pulled through for a converted try.

This only served to increase Evesham’s determination, as the lineout began to take shape and we saw jumpers Stewart Smart and David Scott both securing their own ball and moving in on enemy efforts. A new show of strength emerged with some mighty tackles from James Bowen breaking through the opposition’s stubborn defences. Rugeley did not respond well to this, as Evesham were soon awarded a penalty. Hopes flew high, but the home side kept the pace and the first half drew to a close.

The motivational stylings of Captain Jamie Cameron and Ben Whatmore clearly paid off, as moments into the second half a maul allowed hooker Luke Matthews to spill over the try line, once again giving Evesham the lead.

This new confidence instigated a more convincing second half performance, where we saw Kerren Lippett charge through several unprepared home siders.
An unexpected charge down saw Grove tear across the field, skillfully sidestepping a number of Rugeley challengers for his second try of the game.
The whole team pulled together, and in the final minute some accurate assisting passes awarded Grove with his well deserved hat trick.
The game was by no means one sided, and Evesham’s players still have hard work ahead to meet expectations.

Parkinson gets a Brace!
Saturday 12th December 2009

2nds Maintain the Honours!
Saturday 5th December 2009

Fine Day for Robinson
Saturday 14th November 2009

On a Roll !
Saturday 7th November 2009

EVESHAM 1st XV 34 - ALCESTER 6

Smith Saves the Day!
Saturday 17th October 2009

EVESHAM 1st XV 10  -  PINLEY 7

Hunter the Whippett!
Saturday 10th October 2009

MANOR PARK 5  -  EVESHAM 1st XV 27

On Sat Evesham travelled to Manor Park in Nuneaton for the highly anticipated clash between last years 3rd and 4th placed teams in the league. Manor Park won the toss and elected to play 'up the slope'. As expected the opening encounters were very tight and the forwards started to get to grips with each other in the set piece. From such a set piece Evesham won clean ball and scrum half Darren Hunter got his backs on the front foot. Jim Bowen ploughed through two tackles to get over the gain line and with the ball being recycled by Jason Smith and Liam Green, Hunter was again able to release his potent backline. Good pace by Mo Parkinson and sublime handling from Captain Jamie Cameron who didn't look out of place in the outside backs, released Andy Robinson who scooted in from 15 yards. He then converted his own try to make the score 7-0.
The forward battle was now hotting up and Tight Head Prop John Hopkins was dominating his opposite number and after some skullduggery in the front row was spotted by the referee which resulted in an Evesham penalty. Robinson duly converted. Evesham were growing in confidence and with the slope in their favour they were soon weighing in with another great try from Biff Grove who was enjoying his first game of the year as he outpaced 3 players and drove another over the line to score, much to his delight. 15-0.
Just before half time, Manor Parks' backline put together a string of passes and after some good support play their No9 side stepped his way over the line. 15 -5.

As the second half got underway it was evident that Evesham were in the ascendancy and after a fine line out take from Stu Smart, a sweeping move with great passing from Henry Webb, Ben Whatmore and Parkinson ended with Matt Jaques leaving a trail of defenders in his wake to dot down under the posts. Robinson added the extras 22-5.
Back row Craig Brotherton was tackling like a train, turning over ball all over the place and Evesham were making the most of it, counter attacking whenever the chance arose.
Man of the Match Darren Hunter was having an excellent game and after a couple of whippet like snipes around the fringes he again released the backs and Full Back Richard Moger hit a great line at full tilt, to wrong foot the opposition and leave Grove free to trot over in the corner for his brace and to put the game out of reach at 27-5.

Evesham will be hosting Pinley at home this Saturday (KO at 3pm) and will be hoping their good form will not desert them against what is always a tough outfit. Spectators are welcome as always and the bar will be open after the game.  

Holme in fine form!
Saturday 3rd October 2009

CLEE HILL 17  -  EVESHAM 1st XV 20

Evesham travelled into the unknown on Saturday in the 2nd round of the North Midlands Vase, when they ventured into Shropshire to play Clee Hill. 

With a much changed side to recent weeks, new combinations were tested out by a physical home side who took the game to Evesham from the first whistle. Playing with wind and the slope, the Clee fly half used his local knowlege well and pinned Evesham back. And from some robust forward play Clee scored a quick try in the first 2 minutes. With Clee keeping the ball tight in the pack, Eveshams pacey backline were being starved of the possession they craved. The Evesham pack were tackling themselves to a standstill as an eight, but still couldnt win clean ball. Again using the elements well, the Clee fly half orchestrated a clever forward move and again Clee powered over for a deserved converted try. 

At this point Evesham were still getting the journey out of them, but slowly started to get back into game, Evesham were forced into two early substitutions with Kerran Lippet and Mo Parkinson coming on to replace Jon Hopkins and Mike Diston who were injured. The forwards, led by skipper Jamie Cameron, were starting to turn over good ball. The back row of Liam Green, Jason Smith and Craig Brotherton were enjoying the challenge of the direct running from the Clee pack. Second rows Stuart Smart and Garth Shaw were combining well and worked tirelessly. From a scrum on half way, Scrum half Chris Evis broke and timed his pass to perfection for the prolific winger Ben Holme to round his winger and full back to score a good try. Mo Parkinson converted. Evesham's fitness was already starting pay dividends giving them more possession. But often a lose pass or bad timing resulted in  Clee being able to clear their lines. From a scrum on their own 22, centre Matt Jaques cut a lovely and coasted down the middle of the pitch and out sprinted both full back and winger to score a fine individual try. 

Evesham some how found themselves going into the break level at 12 all. Coach Gary Diston gave a sensible talk and with the elements in their favour, a controlled performance was required in the 2nd half. With Evesham in the ascendancy in their play, Clee were being stilfed by some tremendous defence by the Eveshma team. But still Evesham let themselves down with poor execution of their moves. But luckily Clee didnt look like scoring themselves. But against the run of play, the home side did smash over for another try through their forwards. With time running out for Evesham, something special was needed to snatch victory. Evesham gained a penalty by Parkinson which was converted to make the score 17-15 with 5 minutes to go. With a great deal of composure from a scrum on the Clee 10 metre line, a superb trade mark back move resulted in Ben Holme flying down the touch line to score the winning try. It was a heartbreaking moment for the home side, but on the balance of play it was what Evesham thoroughly deserved because of their defensive effort.

Scorching Display on a Scorcher of a Day!
Saturday 25th September 2009

EVESHAM 1st XV 55  -  KERESLEY 17

Evesham used this platform to attack and after some fine forward work close in to the breakdown were able to break blind from within their own half with Ben Holme and Mo Parkinson cleverly beating the Keresley defence from out wide for Mo Parkinson to add his second try under the posts with Mike Diston duly converting. Evesham were now 29-12 ahead and were dominating possession. In the modern game with the current rules there are a huge number of kicks and so there was in this game; after a ping pong session back and forth the impressive Keresley number 15 was able to dodge, duck and dive through the Evesham defence to make the best part of 40m and from out wide on the railway side of the pitch get the ball to the club house side and gift the ball to the Keresley Number 14 to touch down wide on the Club house side. Keresley were unable to convert. Evesham were shock from this defensive error and to the crowds delight immediately responded marched down the pitch from the restart into the oppositions 22m. Evesham won a clearing and desperate line out and in this instance fortune and awareness fell, on Evesham side as a bread and butter ball for the ever reliable Dave Scott missed and sailed over the back of the lineout for Mo Parkinson to snaffle the ball and pass out to Mike Diston coming smartly from full back to support and power over under the posts and convert his second try of the day. This immediate riposte rather took the wind out of a battling performance from Keresley as within a minute of the restart Rick Taylor scored as he supported Ben Holme his opposite winger as they ran first right and then left towards the River End. The Score was duly converted by Mike Diston. Evesham continued to apply the pressure but Keresley found their resolve and held Evesham for the next 10 minutes before a clever pick up from Liam Green to Chris Evis and then Ben Holme resulted in a forward pass. Evesham completely demolished the Keresley scrum and with Jim “Now lets see what you could have won” Bowen breaching the defence in a tireless and impressive performance in defence and hard clearing out in the centre for Rick Taylor to come bursting off his blind side wing and exploit the inroads made by Bowen and Robinson. Mike Diston duly converted. Time was running out but Evesham forwards decided that it was time all their hard work was rewarded with a try rather than letting the “prancing ponies” in the backs get all the glory. Luke “The Toolman” Matthews had come on as replacement for an injured Stuart Smart led the charge as the forwards picked and drove their way up the pitch brushing aside Keresley when for some reason they let Chris Evis steal the ball away from them and spin wide for Ben Holme to sprint in for his only try of the day and Mike Diston to convert. The 55 -17 score was a great way to carry on the good foundations the players and Coach Gary Diston had laid down last season it was a vast improvement over the previous performance against Keresley albeit not a one sided or easy walkover as the opponents were valiant and determined and gave Evesham plenty to think about.

A big thanks goes to Chris Tallis & Sons for sponsoring the match ball