EVESHAM United slumped to a 3-1 defeat at Redditch United last night, their sixth of the season.

Once again their inability to convert chances into goals proved to be the downfall for Phil Mullen's side.

Despite taking an early lead they lost out to goals from former Robin's strikers Richard Leadbeater and Lee Ross as Redditch maintained their position as league leaders.

A fifth minute cross from Matty Hall was headed against the inside of the post by Ross and from the clearance Shaun Pratt got clear of the Redditch defence but was unable to beat goalkeeper Richard Antiss.

Seconds later though Evesham went ahead after Pratt was fouled on the edge of the penalty area.

Craig Ball's free kick was headed home by Linton Bailey to give the visitors an early advantage at the Valley Stadium.

The lead was short-lived however, as four minutes later Mark Taylor's clever free kick left Leadbeater with the easiest of chances to equalise.

Evesham continued to create chances as play switched from end to end and both Pratt and Mark Shepherd were foiled by Antiss.

But Evesham's luck was out in the 43rd minute when from Ball's corner, Bailey's header came back off the bar.

After a scrappy start to the second half, Redditch took the lead on sixty six minutes, Richard Softley chasing what looked like a lost cause crossed for Ross to score with a simple tap in.

Nine minutes later it was three as Leadbeater was allowed a free header to steer the ball past Tim Clarke and claim his second goal of the night.

Evesham substitute, Junior Christie, could have pulled a goal back with his first touch but screwed his shot wide.

On 83 minutes neat interplay on the edge of the Redditch area resulted in Nathan Juke's shot being deflected for a corner.

From the set piece Pratt rose to head firmly but only against the bar.

Evesham: Clark 7, Smith 7, Powell 6, Khela 7, BAILEY 8, Flynn 7, Ball 6, (Jukes 6), Pinkney 7, Pratt 7, Shepherd 7, Oakey 6 (Christie 6). Subs. Not used: Allen, Van Heerden, Ladek. Attendance 288.