EVESHAM United's poor run in cup competitions this season continued when they lost 3-1 at Ryman League First Division side Dulwich Hamlet in the first round of the FA Umbro Trophy.

It was another below-par performance by United who exited at the hands of an ordinary but workmanlike Dulwich side.

With former England and Tottenham defender Gary Mabbutt watching from the stand, United made the early running.

Dean Roberts twice shot wide following good work by James Brown and Phil Preedy respectively and United had penalty appeals turned down when Andy Smith appeared to be brought down in full flight by Dulwich keeper James Mercer.

The breakthrough however, arrived on the half-hour. Smith released Roberts down the right and his cross was neatly tucked away by Preedy for his fourth goal in six games.

United's lead didn't last long as Dulwich hit back with two goals in six minutes. The speedy Luke Edghill levelled for the home side on 34 minutes, a fierce low drive into the corner of the net.

Soon after Dulwich went in front following another break down the right.

This time Charley Side outpaced the United defence and fired past the ad-vancing Watson.

The United keeper kept his side in the game soon after the interval when he produced an excellent finger tip save to deny Julian Old.

United then went on to enjoy their best spell of the game. Preedy, twice found himself with only Mercer to beat, but shot wide on both occasions.

Mark Wolsey had a couple of efforts held by Mercer and Smith created an opening but failed to find the target from just outside the box.

Five minutes from time, United were reduced to ten men, when Matt Pendleton was harshly adjudged to have fouled old and was sent off for his second bookable offence.

From Lee Endersby's free kick to the far post, Al-James Hannigan headed back across goal and substitute Eben Allen sealed the win with his first touch, apply a neat finish from close range and send United crashing to another disappointing cup defeat.

Evesham: Watson 6, Smith 6, Pendleton 5, Clark 6, Powell 6, Hadland 6, Wolsey 5, McCartan 5 (Taylor, 70, 5), Roberts 5 (Hodgetts 70, (6), Brown 5 (Lutz, 70, 5), Preedy 7. Subs (not used) Parmenter, Davies. Attendance: 237.