PHIL Mullen branded the resignation of Bloxwich United from the Dr Martens League as "disgraceful".

The demise of the club that merged with Blakenall last summer will probably mean that Evesham lose six points from their Western Division total - a move that could cost them promotion.

"It's just ridiculous," Mullen moaned. "They're not in debt or bankrupt and I just can't believe that this has happened."

League secretary, Den Strudwick, was reported to be "bewildered" by Monday's announcement and the decision will be discussed at a directors' meeting of the Dr Martens League on December 13.

Bloxwich face a £4,000 fine but chairman Pete Langstone vowed that the first team was only in limbo until next season when they intend to apply for a place in the Midland Alliance.

A delay in moving to Bloxwich Town's former home and growing expense and reducing income is believed to have hastened the club's decision. However, those problems won't bring any sympathy from Evesham officials, who have now seen nine points slip from their grasp in three days.

However, the players hit back in fine style at Rocester on Tuesday when Richard Clark's third minute header from a Steve McCartan corner earned the Robins a fourth win in five matches.

Danny Watson was the hero of the hour, though, diving to his right to push out William Bratt's last minute penalty after a harsh handball decision.

Mark Clifton, who signed from Bilston and who has previously played under Mullen at Redditch and Stourport, made a solid debut alongside Clark.

Phil Preedy made a welcome return in place of Shaun Pratt on a night when the visitors salvaged swift pride after Saturday's setback.

"We played well in the first half but again failed to finish off the opposition," said Mullen yesterday.

"We were under a lot of pressure playing up the slope but never really troubled but we were grateful to Danny (Watson) for pulling off two of three good stops."

Looking back to Saturday, the Evesham manager said: "I really felt for the lads. We just went to sleep for about 20 minutes and paid the price.

"I wasn't happy with the penalty decision and spoke to the officials about it after the game but I didn't get anywhere," he revealed.

Steve Taylor admitted after getting sent of that he "should know better" but said that he he had been hit first and the referee had missed it.

There will be a rare Saturday off for the United players this weekend ahead of next Tuesday's Worcester Royal Infirmary Cup home quarter-final date with Ledbury Town.

Evesham, meanwhile, face midweek action on Tuesday, January 15 with a rearranged Western Division visit to Mangotsfield.