Evesham United left with the points, despite constant second half pressure from Paulton that failed to gain them a share of the spoils.

The Worcestershire side went into this match following two league defeats, whereas Paulton had gained four points from their last two games.

But this was far from an easy ride for Rovers. A well drilled and workmanlike side, Evesham pushed a reorganised Paulton team back from the start and Jack Horrell had an early shot saved by the diving Aaron Sainsbury. In shooting, Horrell sustained an injury causing him to subsequently leave the field.

After just ten minutes, as Paulton attacked, Adam Kelly was tripped and Leighton Thomas struck the resultant penalty firmly to the right of keeper, Lewis Clayton, to put Rovers one up.

After another five minutes, Evesham’s number 11 Karnell Chambers capitalised on some hesitancy in the Paulton defence to reach a long kick from his goalkeeper to volley the ball over Sainsbury, on to the bar and then to head in the rebound to equalise for Evesham.

Paulton rallied with a couple of shots from Dan Cottle and Thomas and although Lee Ibrahim was working hard across the pitch, Evesham were gaining control as Jordan Lymn began to make the more telling passes.

After 43 minutes, a disputed handball decision gave Evesham’s Adam Mace the chance to shoot. Sainsbury saved brilliantly, but two corners followed and from the second, Lorcan Sheehan headed in at the far post to give the lead to the Away team.

Paulton began the second half with much more purpose and drive. Shots from Captain, Nuno Felix and Cottle went close. Thomas, running well with the ball, was just unable to outwit Evesham defenders, Ryan Paddock and Jordan Staten. Thomas also had a snap shot well saved by Clayton.

Rovers were using the ball well in their build-up play, but too often a move broke down as a pass was just overplayed or inaccurate. A fine run by Kelly was also brought to a halt by a questionable offside flag.

Substitutes, Harley Prior and Leo Eglin, joined the game and further crosses, shots and headers from Jake Sloggett, Cottle and Thomas flew wide of the goal or were saved, as Paulton continued to press.

Evesham were largely kept in their own half, but did create two dangerous breakaways that resulted in good saves from Sainsbury.

Paulton Rovers developed their moves constructively and purposely. They suffered this defeat largely through a lack of precision with the final pass.

Star Man of the Match – Lee Ibrahim for Paulton Rovers.

Paulton were due to play Highworth Town at home this week in the Southern League Cup. However, Highworth drew 1–1 with Shaftsbury in the FA Cup, necessitating a replay on Wednesday, 15th September, kick-off at 7.30 pm.

This Saturday Paulton welcome Highworth Town in the league, kick-off 3 pm.

The U-18s are due to play Wells City on Thursday, 16th September, kick-off 7.30 pm

The Reserves are Away to Shepton Mallet Reserves on Saturday, kick-off 2 pm.

Noel Avis