Saturday, August 17, 2002

IT was entirely appropriate that new skipper Darren Bullock should be the man to hit the net as United started the new season with a win.

The former Worcester City midfielder, who also has numerous Football League appearances under his belt, lived up to his reputation with a swashbuckling show that inspired his new teammates to great heights.

Ravaged by injury and suspension, the Robins nullified the threat of one of the Western Division title favourites, so much so that goalkeeper Darren Steadman had few anxious moments.

Defensively solid, strong and mobile in midfield but slightly lightweight up front, Phil Mullen's men more than made up for any deficiencies with a terrific battling show.

Bullock exemplified the commitment while also revealing a slicker side to his game with several key passes - the first of which ended after ten minutes with Shaun Pratt firing a thumping drive over the angle.

United had a let off early on when Neil Kitching struck the bar and the Gresley striker was also guilty of another miss after 20 minutes after more slack defending.

The Evesham back four, containing ex-Coventry youngster Tom Cudworth, the "retired" Russ Parmenter and returning Matt Pendleton stuck to their tasks while Jay Powell, despite constant bickerings with assistant boss, Paul Davies, was his usual steady self.

The centre back was also a nuisance at the other end and James Brown saw a 27th minute point-blank volley saved after Powell's knock back.

However, an error by the defender gave Andy Bourne a glimpse of goal but he lobbed over and Rovers were made to pay for their mistakes when Bullock's thumping header from a Nathan Jukes corner found the net off the underside of the bar.

Craig Hopkins was close at the opposite end but his 73rd minute effort struck wood before a double home substitution gave Danny Jones an 18th birthday debut alongside Scott Mullen.

Gresley were a shadow of the side that won 4-1 at Common Road last March but it was a far more determined home outfit that earned their three points and continued their excellent recent record of first day wins.