Alvechurch picked up their second win over Bromsgrove Sporting in 10 days to progress in the league, thanks to Kieran Cook's first half goal.
Following the sides exciting FA Cup tie, expectation was high for this game and it again proved to be a lively encounter, with Bromsgrove forward Jason Cowley shown a red card.
Alvechurch manager Ian Long made nine changes to the side which defeated Needham Market on Saturday, and saw his side create the first chance of the game with Dave Bellis firing over after good work from Aaron Llyod. Church took the lead soon after however.
Cook, one of three teenagers to start to the game for Church, picked up a stray clearance from Bromsgrove forward Jonathan Brown and brilliantly lobbed the ball into the empty net from 30 yards out. This promoted Bromsgrove to pressure the Church back-line, leading to Aaron Roberts hitting the post and Jack Cresswell firing a free-kick over.
Just before half-time though the visitors were dealt a huge blow; with Cowley shown a red card for leaning his head into Theo Llewellyn's face. This red card hampered Sporting as the home side pushed for a second goal in the second half.
Taylor Morrison was denied by Brown, as was substitute Danny O'Callaghan. Meanwhile, Cook fired well wide before his shot-come-cross flashed just wide of the post. Bromsgrove pushed for a late equaliser with two shots in quick succession, but Alvehcurch keeper Paul Evans was on hand to deny Will Shorrock, while John Pykett's low shot was inches away from finding the bottom corner.
These misses proved crucial as Alvechurch saw out the rest of the game; making it four wins in a row and three clean sheets in a row in all competitions.
Report courtesy of Lewis Glannon (Alvechurch F. C.). |