I am making my way by bus today to Evesham to see United in action against Bolehall Swifts from the Midland Combination in the FA Cup Prelim Rd. On paper it should be straight forward for Evesham but they have had an unspectacular start to their season while Bolehall have been banging in the goals so far.
It's a great day weather-wise and I have a look round the town before setting off on the 25 minute walk to the Jubilee Stadium on the Cheltenham Road, right on the southern edge of the town.
Evesham is a pleasant town with nice architecture in the centre and fine walks along the nearby River Avon. There is still work being done on the river bridge but a footbridge has been constructed for pedestrians until the work has been completed in November, so I'm told.
So I arrive at the ground with 25 minutes before kick-off. This stadium was opened, just at the start of last season. On the northern side is the entrance and a covered end for spectators while on the left (eastern side of the ground) are the club house and a covered seated stand, while the other 2 sides are open to the elements with a good view of Bredon Hill to the south west.
Evesham have come out in their usual red & white stripes and Bolehall in an all yellow strip.
Evesham have started brightly and have had the first shot on goal but from then on Bolehall start to control the game.
They are more composed on the ball while Evesham are struggling to create any constructive moves.
It's not much of a surprise when 'The Swifts' take the lead after 21 minutes when their No 9, Chris Sturridge-Packer, tucks the ball awat from close range, (shown celebrating, below).
Near half-time another Bolehall shot goes just the wrong side of the post!
So to the 2nd-half and Evesham Utd make an immediate substition, with Carl Brown coming on and his pace makes an immediate impact. He scores after outpacing the Bolehall defence and buries a shot past Mc.Nulty.
Bolehall are still dangerous on the break and go very close with a oneon-one with the keeper.
Evesham take the lead on 63 minutes with Marcus Palmer converting a cross from close range. Evesham are well on top at this stage and Bolehall are desperately pumping the ball forward at every opportunity to get an equaliser.
So Evesham win this tie but have been given a scare by a well organised Bolehall team. There reward is a tough home tie against old rivals Stourbridge in the next round.
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