Brackley Town 0, Evesham United 1

UNITED picked themselves up after last week's horror show against Bedworth to gain this vital victory at play-off hopefuls Brackley Town and set up an intriguing last day of the season on Saturday.

Should United overcome Cinderford Town at Common Road and Rothwell beat Yate then the Robins will be automatically promoted.

It wasn't pretty at St James' Park but the result for Dave Busst's men was more important than the way it was achieved.

A Mark Burrow snapshot that flew just wide and Tim Clarke's save low down from the dangerous Carl Wilson-Denis were the only offerings in a low-key first half.

Things livened up in the second and in the 58th minute Evesham took the lead. A clearance over the Brackley defence found Richard Ball who shrugged off the challenge of Matt Davies before firing in his 20th goal of the season.

Ball nearly made it two soon afterwards but his header struck the angle of a post and crossbar before going behind.

Evesham were now enjoying their best period in the game. Jermaine Clarke blasted over following Ball's knockdown and then Clarke had a header disallowed for offside.

Brackley threw bodies forward in an attempt to keep their play-off hopes alive and Gary Wickens nearly grabbed a late equaliser but for a fine save by Tim Clarke.

On Saturday United complete their Southern League Division One West fixtures when Cinderford Town are the visitors to Common Road (3pm). The match ball is being sponsored by John and Gladys Hawkins.

Next Thursday United's youth team entertain Malvern Town at Common Road in the Midland Floodlit Youth League Supplementary Cup (7.30pm).