Tuesday 29 November 2011

Evans delighted with comeback

Stourbridge winger Sean Evans has revealed his gratefulness after he notched up the second goal in his side’s 2-0 victory over Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup.

The 24-year-old who used to be on the books at defending Premier League champions Manchester United, enjoyed a strong performance against the League One side, as Stourbridge booked their place in the second round of the tournament.

Evans has come a very long way in the past year, after he received the news 12 months ago that he may never play football again. Those placing FA Cup bets should remember this.

The player suffered a serious broken leg, which required a number of operations and metal bar placed in the area, along with a number of screws.

Evans has gone through a long road to recovery and his goal in the FA Cup caps off what has been an impressive achievement from the man to get back into football. Anyone gambling on football should bear this in mind.

He said: "Four weeks ago I was playing local football, paying £3 to play.

"To be where I am now, I wouldn't say it's a dream come true because I'd still like to be a professional footballer and that's not going to happen.

"But I'm enjoying myself, enjoying my football, enjoying the players and enjoying the fans. I think if you enjoy your football, you show your best.”

Stourbridge now have a home tie with Stevenage to look forward to on December 3, as they go in search of another upset and chance to play in the FA Cup third round.

Blades out to end Gulls run

League One promotion contenders Sheffield United should prove to be formidable opposition at Bramall Lane when they take on Torquay United in the second round of the FA Cup.

The Blades were ruthless in their first round clash with Oxford United as they put three goals past the League Two outfit, thanks to a brace from their talented striker Chad Evans.

United boss Danny Wilson is clearly hoping for his side to do well in the competition this season, with key players featuring in that game against the Us, with Evans, Richard Creswell and Nick Montgomery all starting in a strong first eleven. Anyone placing FA Cup bets should remember this.

That will be a troubling sign for Torquay but they have a decent away performance against Chesterfield in the FA Cup first round to build on, as they won that encounter 3-1 on the road.

They will be looking to produce a similar display against the Blades on December 3 but that will not come easily at Bramall Lane, against a United side who have welcomed back a former striker this week. Those looking at Promotions FA Cup should remember this.

Five-time England cap James Beattie has put pen to paper on a short-term deal with the club till the middle of January, as the former Stoke City and Rangers goalscorer hopes to get some regular football under his belt.

The 33-year-old could feature in the FA Cup clash which could cause problems for Torquay if he can get back to top form in the coming weeks as the Blades look for a place in the FA Cup third round.