EVESHAM United returned from early Southern Football League Division One South and West leaders Yate Town last night with a deserved point after a 0-0 draw.

Both sides went into the match at Lodge Road unbeaten in their opening three games and ninth-placed United went on to keep their third clean sheet in a row.

The promising Jack Watts threatened for the Robins when his curling shot was turned behind by Yate keeper Martin Horsell.

Lance Smith headed Sean Wood`s flag-kick just wide and then had the ball in the net but was harshly ruled to have handled.

The hard-working Smith then got behind the defence only to drag his shot wide.

United looked dangerous on the break and caused more problems for Yate in the second-half.

Smith blazed wide after beating his marker in the box and then just failed to get a touch on Elliot Kennedy`s driven near-post cross.

Yate threatened briefly when keeper Kevin Sawyer saved from Ross Staley but United asked all the questions.

Evesham substitute Ethan Moore almost broke through in a crowded goalmouth but could not turn the ball in after more right-wing trickery from Marcus Jackson.

The Robins now host third-placed Totton on Saturday and visit local rivals Stratford Town on Monday (both 3pm).

Evesham: Sawyer, M Jackson, Binns, Wilson, Sysum, Dovey, Kennedy (Tambling 89), Wood, Smith (Moore 73), N Jackson, Watts (Slack 70). Subs not used: Wellon, Evans.

Attendance: 195.