Jackson makes Robins switch (From Worcester News)

Jackson makes Robins switch

10:00am Friday 1st February 2013 in Sport By Steve Carley, @stevecarleyWN

EVESHAM United have secured the signature of Banbury United centre-half Chris Jackson ahead of tomorrow’s match against Mangotsfield United (3pm).

The 30-year-old has been on the Robins’ radar for a while and manager Paul West made his move after Jackson’s first-team opportunities at the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division club became limited.

Evesham also held talks with Bishop’s Cleeve defender Sam Avery but were unable to match his wages.

West wants to add competition to his squad but has seen his budget cut in recent weeks and is having to be frugal.

“There is a myth that we are the financial big boys but that’s not the case,” he said.

Jackson boasts more than 210 games for Banbury after progressing through their youth team while also having spells at Bedford Town and Aylesbury United.

Meanwhile, United hope their pitch holds up for the Mangotsfield clash in Division One South and West following heavy rain.

West says there is a drainage problem with the surface at the Spiers and Hartwell Jubilee Stadium which is causing problems for the players.

Last weekend’s 0-0 draw against Cirencester Town was in doubt ahead of kick-off and, with United also hosting Abingdon United in a rearranged league fixture next Tuesday, an improvement is needed.

The Evesham boss added: “We have a couple of issues with the pitch which doesn’t make it easy for the players.

“It’s a drainage problem and it is like a quagmire. The quicker we can solve that, the better.”