Evesham United earned themselves a hard fought 1-0 victory at Rocester in the Dr Martens Western Division last night.

A goal in the third minute by defender Richard Clark, his first of the season, separated the two sides.

But the hero for United was goalkeeper Danny Watson. He produced a string of fine saves, especially in the second-half, and capped a faultless display with a last-minute penalty save.

With Mark Clifton making his debut at the heart of the defence, following his move from Bilston Town, United stunned the home crowd by scoring in their first attack. From Steve McCartan's corner, Clark climbed above everyone to power a header past John Edensor into the roof of the net.

Denying

United continued to take the game to Rocester and Edensor was kept busy denying Phil Preedy, McCartan and Andy Hodgetts during the opening 45 minutes.

Rocester weathered the storm and gave the United supporters some anxious moments in the second-half.

Twice Romans striker Richard Swain failed to find the net with only Watson to beat and then Watson produced a breath taking save to touch Paul Ede's free-kick onto a post and behind.

For United Shaun Pratt crashed a shot into the side netting and Clark's downward header was safely gathered by Edensor.

But with the game entering injury-time, Rocester were awarded a hotly disputed penalty. Ede's quickly taken free-kick struck a United hand in a defensive wall that was still being organised and standing only six yards back.

To the crowds amazement, referee Nr Nock awarded a spot-kick. Watson, however, brilliantly dived to his right to push away William Bratt's penalty and reacted quickly to smother Rob Myatt's follow up shot.

Despite eight minutes of time added on, United held their nerve to ensure a winning start for Clifton and his new team mates.

Evesham: Watson 9, Smith 7, Wolsey 7, Clark 7, Clifton 6, Lutz 6, Taylor 7, McCartan 8, Hodgetts 6, Brown 6 (Pratt 62), Preedy 6 (Mullen 70). Attendance: 128.