Ashford Tn 2, Evesham Utd 1

WESLEY Joyce made another return to Common Road but couldn't help his new side from falling at the first hurdle in Saturday's FA Trophy tie.

Amazingly, the striker turned out for the Robins just 18 hours after scoring from the penalty spot for Malvern Town and he did the same on his return in Evesham colours.

Joyce has been brought in as a ready-made replacement for Lee Ross, who has joined Bedworth, and he partnered Jermaine Clarke up front.

United, who recalled Lee Knight at the expense of David Carns, also had Danny Williams in midfield in place of Gavin O'Toole but the visitors turned in a poor display against a side that extended its undefeated record to 11 matches.

"I wanted more of a physical presence up front and Wesley fills that role," said boss David Busst.

"However, we didn't create many chances and lacked creativity and that is something we will be looking to put right this weekend.

"We've got a tough month coming up but if we win our games in hand then we can go top. Promotion is my priority, although we wanted to win both cup ties, and we've now got to focus on that aim and put together a good run in the league."

Busst has added Nuneaton winger Simeon Williams to his squad and he will be available for selection along with O'Toole for Satur-day's home game with Brackley Town.

United then travel to Worcestershire neighbours Brom-sgrove on Tuesday looking to add to the ten points they have already amassed on their Division One West travels.

The Robins travelled down the M40 protecting that undefeated away record but they struggled to string two passes together all afternoon.

Clarke had an early effort blocked before the visitors had an escape when Anthony Eggington struck a post.

However, Ashford took the lead four minutes before the break when Jim Hibburt beat Dave Adey with a curling free-kick.

Clarke was again foiled by two stops from home keeper Paul Burgess who then gifted United a 59th minute lifeline when he took a swipe at Joyce in the 18-yard area and the striker slotted in the resultant spot-kick.

Rava Sangha replaced the scorer, who has just been cautioned, five minutes later and the substitute's first act was to witness the hosts grabbing what proved to be the winner on 65 minutes when the dangerous Scott Todd held off a couple of challenges before stroking the ball past Adey.

Saturday's match is being sponsored by Andrew Leitch Solicitors of Evesham and the ball by Dave White.