WINCHESTER City are up to third in the Evo-Stik South West after yesterday's truly satisfying 2-0 win over promotion rivals Evesham United.

Buoyed by a positive midweek result at North Leigh, manager Craig Davis made just one change to his starting line-up with Adam Tomasso returning from suspension in place of the unavailable Liam Gilbert.

It left City with a wealth of talent on the bench and it was two substitutes – Rob Carr and IK Hill - who grabbed the all-important second-half goals.

Winger Carr broke the deadlock on 63 minutes with a free-kick that eluded everyone on its way in.

Carr was instrumental in the second goal too – Evesham’s former Salisbury goalkeeper Kevin Sawyer unable to hold his shot, allowing Hill to bury the loose ball.

“It was a bit of a battle really. Teams don’t want to give an inch in this league, but we stood up to it,” said Davis.

“We went back to basics in training, just practising clearances, and it’s paid dividends.

“Anyone would like a squad of the calibre of Evesham’s, but we nullified them completely.

“And the fact we introduced Rob and IK after 55/60 minutes goes to show how good our squad is.

"I’m really proud of the lads. We've got a good, honest group who give me everything."

On Tuesday (7.45pm) Winchester host Basingstoke Town in the Hampshire FA Senior Cup third round.

"I don't want to risk anyone with another tough away trip to Slimbridge coming up on Saturday but, equally, we will give it a good go," promised Davis.