Evesham 20pts, Alcester 17

FOR the second successive week Evesham struggled to turn possession and territorial dominance into points.

Despite another dominant performance from the pack and strong running performances from centres Jamie Cameron and Jim Bowen, Evesham only just managed to overcome spirited and physical opponents.

Everything seemed to be going to plan in the early stages with Evesham's patient possession resulting in a penalty from Richie Taylor. However, sloppy play led to a well taken counter attacking try from Alcester.

Evesham kept their heads and fought back by way of a well-worked line-out move that culminated in a typical try for rampaging prop Chris Maritza who was soon forced to leave the field injured.

Shortly after the restart the visitors again capitalised on a quick turnover to score a converted try to lead 12-8 but Evesham soon struck back with an unconverted try from winger Mark Williams.

The home side weren't allowed to rest on their laurels for long as the balance soon swung in Alcester's favour again as they regained the lead with another unconverted score.

Evesham were forced to reshuffle as a result of injuries and veterans Julian Walker, Steve Barker and Mark Turpitt were introduced into the fray.

The hosts showed spirit and determination in the final minutes and, in a last desperate surge, No 8 Dave Scott off-loaded the ball from a tackle to Barker who drove towards the try line before slipping the ball to Sam Wigg who showed strength and determination in reaching out for the try that was followed by a crucial Taylor conversion.