League leaders Cinderford Town arrived at the Jubilee Stadium unbeaten in 17 games and with eight successive wins under their belts, but were blown away by in-form United who themselves have now gone eight games without defeat in the Evo-Stik Southern South & West Division. Despite playing against a gale force wind in the first half, United deservedly led 2-0 at half-time and went on to complete the job with latest signing Nathan Modest adding a third to round-off a memeorable win for Paul Collicutt`s men. Collicutt had concerns before the game with a number of key players absent and could only name two changed substitutes on the bench. Cinderford on the other hand, had no such problems, the table toppers were at full strength and included four former Robins` in their starting line-up.
Mann: Scored opener
It was apparent straight from the kick-off that the conditions would play a big part, but United were not phased and after a period of possession took a 15th minute lead. A ball in from the ever reliable Liam Harding found top marksman Adam Mann and his looping header sailed over Town keeper Alex Harris for the striker`s 10th goal of the season. Cinderford`s best chance arrived shortly afterwards but the unmarked Joe Parker lobbed wide and that was as good as it got for the side from the Forest of Dean. Just past the half-hour mark, the Red and Whites doubled their lead courtesy of an excellent finish by the hardworking Lance Smith, who sliced through the visitor`s defence before superby driving home past the helpless Harris.
The next goal would be crucial to the outcome and it was no surprise when it fell United`s way on 66 minutes. Modest making his first start since moving from AFC Telford United, dispossessed Niall Rowe down the right and raced goalwards to score with a clinical finish into the far corner.The game was now over but United still had chances to increase their lead before the final whistle. Dynamic duo, Smith and Mann, both had goalbound efforts blocked and then Harris dived full-length to his left to push behind Clayton Green`s screamer from 35 yards.
A jubilant Collicutt said afterwards, “To score three times against a side with the best defensive record in the league was very pleasing. The conditions were not ideal but we were better than them all over the park and fully deserved to win the game. I was down to the bare bones but the boys were brilliant and put in another honest and hardworking display. The crowd played their part too, attracting nearly 300 people on a wet and windy afternoon just before Christmas was a magnificent achievement.”
EVESHAM UNITED:
Sawyer, Wood, Stanley, Harding (Binns 35), Sysum, Wellon, Modest (Sloggett 70), Brown, Mann, Smith, Green.
Subs not used: Wilson, Dovey
Referee: Mr J.Law (Holt Heath, Worcester)
ATTENDANCE: 283
Photos by Stuart Purfield here
0 Comments