Last league game set for crucial conclusion (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Last league game set for crucial conclusion

THIRTY-EIGHT years after Evesham United first played at Common Road, the dilapidated old ground is all set to stage its last - and probably most important - league fixture.

The sale of the ground for development will see the Robins start next season's Southern League programme ground sharing with Worcester City.

However, the result of Saturday's home game against already relegated Chesham United will, along with results elsewhere, determine whether Evesham will be staging Premier Division soccer at St George's Lane.

Victory for Paul West's men and defeats for fourth bottom Northwood at Cirencester and UniBond League pair Lincoln United and Radcliffe Borough will guarantee safety and earn the manager a prestigious place in Common Road folklore!

Whatever happens, West, Micky Brennan and the players have at least helped rescue a campaign that started with such high hopes but could end up with United dropping to the bottom of the top flight ladder.

Only a Chesham win could do that allied to victory for Aylesbury at Merthyr Tydfil - that scenario would be cruel on all those involved both on and off the field in rekindling the spirit during the latter part of the season that helped win promotion 12 months ago.

Thriller

Jimmy Sissons netted the first goal at Common Road in a 3-3 Midland Combin-ation thriller played in brilliant sunshine against Boldmere St Michaels on Saturday, August 31, 1968.

It took Sissons just four minutes to open his account at the new ground and it was 2-0 nine minutes later when a visiting player scored an own goal.

However, Mikes rallied to lead 3-2 at half-time and Evesham were indebted to an equaliser from Graham "Chinky" Bartlett after 55 minutes and a last-gasp save from John Smith to ensure the opening match didn't end in defeat.

The team that day was captained by Colin Shepherd and consisted of goalkeeper Smith, Bartlett, Sissons, Les Wood, Alan Instan, Bomber Wells, Gordon Vine, Bobby Goddard, Seymour Townsend and Graham Smith. The substitute was David Pugh.

Three days later, Evesham scored five without reply against Lydbrook when current committee man Brian Gregg was the mascot for the night!

Club chairman Jim Cockerton has extended an invitation to all former players and officials to come along on Saturday for what promises to be an emotional afternoon both on and off the field.

Saturday's match sponsor is JC Autos, Honeybourne Industrial Estate and the ball is being sponsored by John and Gladys Hawkins, whose last day it will be in the club shop.