EVESHAM United’s eight-match unbeaten run ended with a 3-1 defeat at Evo-Stik Southern League Division One South and West leaders Cinderford Town.

In front of Cinderford’s biggest crowd of the season of 227, boosted by a large contingent of visiting supporters, the early stages were dominated by the midfields with chances at a premium.

On 36 minutes, the hosts got the break when the Evesham defence were exposed and a pass over the top saw Ethan Moore away with only Sawyer to beat with his well-placed shot giving the advancing keeper no chance.

However, less than a minute later, Evesham’s Nick Stanley’s perfect penalty sent Alex Harris the wrong way after a handball in the box.

After the break, Lance Smith failed to capitalise on a one-on-one chance and two minutes later Evesham defender Linden Dovey had his marching orders as he upended Moore as he was about to shoot.

Moore gave Sawyer no chance from the spot for his second.

On 55 minutes, Cinderford sealed their victory when Ashley Willams’ back-pass found former Worcester City forward Moore, who went on to complete his hat-trick.

The Robins remain in sixth place seven points below the play-off zone.

Evesham: Sawyer, Dovey, Stanley (Brown 60), Wood, Sysum, Wellon, Binns, Williams (Green 60), Mann, Smith, Sloggett (Wilson 53). Subs not used: Modest, Harding.

Attendance: 227.