Gloucester City manager Daf Williams expressed his disappointment following a lacklustre 2-2 draw against Evesham United at the KMM Energy Stadium on Saturday. Despite dominating possession in the first half, neither side created significant chances, leaving the crowd wanting more.
The deadlock was broken in the 58th minute when Ethan Dunbar struck a swift counter-attacking goal for Evesham, silencing the home supporters. Just 15 minutes later, Dunbar doubled the lead, again capitalizing on a quick breakaway, which sent shockwaves through the stadium.
This wake-up call sparked Gloucester City into action. Michael O’Regan pulled a goal back after a well-delivered cross from Ed Williams, reigniting hope for the home side. Shortly after, Ben Richards-Everton soared highest to meet another precise cross, leveling the score and energizing the fans.
READ MORE: Winchcombe: The Cotswolds’ Historic Market Town with 15th Century Inns and a Majestic Castle
READ MORE: NHS Issues Vital Vitamin D Supplement Guidance for Autumn and Winter
Despite Gloucester’s relentless pressure late on, the game ended in a stalemate. Williams admitted the team’s slow start and passivity cost them dearly. “We were too slow and too passive in the first half,” he said. “Their first goal was like a punch that caught us off guard, and the second goal lit a fire under us — but by then it was too late. Overall, it was a poor day for us.”
The match marked the start of the new year at the stadium, attracting an impressive crowd of 1,577 fans. Williams offered a heartfelt apology to the supporters for the team’s lack of intensity. “They were fantastic as always, and we let them down with our performance,” he reflected. “The players’ reaction after falling behind was brilliant, but we shouldn’t have found ourselves in that position to begin with.”
Looking ahead, Gloucester City prepares to face Marine in the FA Trophy next Saturday, aiming to build on their success in the competition. “We want to give the supporters and this club a bit of history with a good cup run,” Williams explained. “While the cup is important, the league remains our priority.”
The match lineups were as follows:
Gloucester City: J Thompson, Jones, Roberts (Emmett 60), O’Regan, Williams, Wildig (Phillips 60), Spence, Richards-Everton, Day, Baidoo, Simpson.
Evesham United: Harris, Hutt (Middleton 81), Foye, Barlow, Richards, Awadh (McConnell 84), Wright (Steele 70), Bojang, Dunbar, Walters, Churchley (Heap 70).
Referee: Thomas Berry.
Attendance: 1,577.