HEAVY rain brought a premature end to Evesham United's match against Stourport Swifts this afternoon.

Stafford referee Stephen Martin was persuaded to end the contest just a minute into the second half after rival managers Paul West and Phil Mullen had got together during a stoppage in play.

The St George's Lane surface was waterlogged in several places after incessant rain and the decision was greeted with common sense throughout.

A goalless opening 45 minutes had yet again highlighted Evesham's current problems.

Richard Ball missed the best chance after two minutes, while Mark Owen's volley after 23 minutes had seen Stourport keeper Paul Evans produce a fine stop.

Steve Lutz went close twice for the hosts while Nathan Vaughan produced a smart stop to deny Steve Frost.

Mullen was the more relieved of the two bosses as he had used all his three available substitutes at half-time including veteran Chris Brindley who had donned the goalkeeping jersey to replace the injured Evans.