Evesham Utd 4, Sutton Coldfield Tn 1

By Mervyn Collins

MARK Owen enjoyed a dream return to St George's Lane when he netted twice in the opening 23 minutes of Tuesday night's clash against Bogey side Sutton.

The former Worcester City favourite had strike partner Richard Ball to thank for his first half brace and it was Ball who rounded off a promising start to life at Evesham's temporary home with a typical last minute goal.

Steve Luckett was the other scorer when his flicked header from Leon Blake's 27th minute free-kick looped over Town keeper Darren Causer to make it 3-1.

Owen's far post fifth minute opener from Ball's centre was cancelled out by Chris Hughes six minutes later after a centre from Nathan Brown had bounced down on the line off the angle of post and crossbar.

Ball missed a glorious chance to regain the home side's lead but could only find the side-netting after the impressive Liam Daly's header had been palmed aside by Causer.

However, last season's top scorer made up for the miss when his left-footer was kept out by Causer but the alert Owen was on hand to slide in the loose ball from ten yards.

Luckett's goal gave the Robins more breathing space and they needed it while also being indebted to Simon Fitter's goalline clearance six minutes before the break.

Owen's night could have been even more memorable had he not produced a weak finish with only Causer to beat after Daly had again caused problems with his height.

The second half was a huge anti-climax as Evesham's defence coped splendidly with what little Sutton could manage to throw at them.

Nick Heath blazed wildly over twice but chances were scarce until Ball flashed a left-foot drive a yard wide five minutes before latching on to Leon Blake's pass to round off a fine start to United's tenure in Worcester.

Steve Lutz replaced Steven Hands late on and manager Paul West will be hoping the reliable defender will shake off the groin problem in time for Saturday's home date with Berkhamsted.

Nathan Jukes should also be available after jet lag kept him out on Tuesday and the midfielder will be hoping to be in the starting line-up on Monday at former club Malvern Town (3pm).

The match sponsor on Saturday is Danish Bacon Company, Petersfield, Hampshire, while Millvale Ltd, Evesham have sponsored the ball.

Supporters are reminded that a coach will leave the Bus Station on the High Street at 1.30pm. The fare is £4.