Evesham Utd 4, Cinderford Tn 0

TOP scorer Richard Ball banged in a brilliant hat-trick to end United's 42-match Southern League Division One West in scintillating style, writes Mervyn Collins.

However, last Saturday's tasty treble failed to guarantee instant promotion for Dave Busst's men after Yate Town's 3-1 victory at Rothwell pipped the Robins for runners-up spot.

The home side's attacking flair that produced a handful of chances in the opening quarter failed to produce a goal as Ball, Steve Duncan, Leon Blake and Grant Pinkney all failed to find the net with first half strikes.

There was little to trouble Tim Clarke at the opposite end and it was the second minute of stoppage-time when the deadlock was broken when Ball powerfully headed in Matty Hall's corner.

The lead was doubled before the sides trooped off as Ball coolly lobbed Andy Fisher from the edge of the box following Hall's through pass.

Jermaine Clarke saw a fierce strike five minutes after the restart bring the best out of Fisher but chances were scarce and Busst opted to replace his striker with John Gayle with 25 minutes remaining.

The experienced target man headed on to the roof of the goal before setting up Blake who volleyed in a magnificent third.

At the other end, Clarke produced a stupendous stop to ensure another clean sheet before substitute Simon Fitter sent Ball scampering clear and a 23rd goal of a productive campaign was steered into the bottom corner.