Key spell for Robins’ hopes (From Worcester News)

Key spell for Robins’ hopes

12:00pm Friday 10th February 2012 in News By Steve Carley, @stevecarleyWN #WENsport

EVESHAM United face a crucial month in their battle to beat the drop in the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division.

That’s the view of manager Matt Clarke as he bids to guide the Robins to safety in his first season at St George’s Lane.

United head into tomorrow’s home match against fifth-placed Chesham United (3pm) sitting only four points above the drop-zone, aiming to bounce back from the disappointing 4-3 defeat to lowly Swindon Supermarine.

They then face matches against Totton and Leamington, who both have promotion aspirations.

“It’s a tricky game against Chesham but we have a run of tough matches over the next month against teams fighting at the top,” Clarke said. “It’s a crucial month.”

The Robins boss wants his side to become more consistent at the Lane, following three wins and four defeats from seven matches at their temporary headquarters.

He said: “Our away form is great but we seem to struggle at home.

“It’s difficult to create an atmosphere at the Lane because the crowds are so low, (averaging 127) they are almost neutral games.

“We find it difficult with as many away fans as home supporters and are not able to string wins together there.”

Ben Pugh is set to miss the Chesham game with a hamstring injury but league officials confirmed the club will face no further action over the striker’s signing.

Redditch United claim Pugh was ineligible to play against them on December 31, a game Evesham won 1-0.

The Robins were fined £100 by the Worcestershire FA for illegally approaching the player, but league secretary Jason Mills said Pugh had been correctly registered.