Rugeley 3, Evesham 2
EVESHAM'S run of five consecutive victories came to an end against experienced and well-organised opponents.
Despite enjoying most of the possession and dominating for large periods, the visitors failed to convert many of the chances and careless defensive play gifted the game to the hosts.
Buoyant from some recent impressive performances, Evesham were in confident mood but it soon became apparent that the usual drive and clinical play that has been such a feature over the past few weeks was lacking.
However, they dominated from an early stage and soon put pressure on the home side but a combination of excellent goalkeeping and poor finishing, particularly from skipper Martin Husbands, meant that the pressure came to very little.
Set-plays seemed to offer the best chance of success and it was no surprise when Stuart Harris bundled to ball over the line following a short corner strike from Stuart Bearcroft.
Evesham, though, became complacent and poor defending gifted Rugeley's lone striker a chance that left Damon Keyte helpless.
On the stroke of half-time, a second attack led to a short corner that was skilfully converted.
Evesham, though, continued to control matters as Rugeley chose to defend with most of their team behind the ball. Pressure finally paid off as Bearcroft equalised with a superb short corner strike.
Yet, just as it seemed as though an Evesham victory was on the cards, another careless defensive error allowed Rugeley to break away and regain the lead.
Steve Miller, Stuart Harris and Dave Selby worked tirelessly in midfield but Evesham lacked the tactical awareness of how to unlock a well organised defence.
A frantic last ten minutes saw Evesham come close to equalising but Ben Brown, Selby and Husbands all wasted clear-cut chances that came their way.
"We've dominated the game, played them off the park and lost the match," summed up a disappointed Husbands.
"They had four attacks and scored three times but you can't get carried away when you win nor panic when you lose. The young lads have to learn to make decisions. We're still a good team - it was just one of those days."
Evesham will be looking to go into the Christmas break with a win to secure third spot against second-placed Bromsgrove at Evesham High School on Saturday (1.30pm).
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