Alvechurch 3 Handrahan Timbers 4

ANOTHER Alvechurch cup exit saw them dumped out of the Birmingham Midweek Vase at the first hurdle, writes Matt Smith.

Three goals down after an hour, the Churchmen almost pulled off an unlikely comeback but the visitors held firm.

The hosts were a goal down after half an hour with Timbers skipper Mitchell Lester slotting past Church keeper Andy Harper from a Huw Lewis pass.

Keith Rostill levelled but ten minures later David Trevalen hit two in two minutes powering his way through in the 38th minute and converting a Lee Capewell cross-shot in the 40th.

Church replaced the injured Harper at half time with reserve Gavin Heath, and he was picking the ball out of the net after Lester hit his second.

Alvechurch captain Ross Knight should have scored from the spot ten minutes from time after Brett Skinner was scythed down by Andy Speake, but fired high and wide.

Brett Fitzpatrick scored in the 82nd and 88th minutes but it was not enough for an incredible comeback and Alvechurch will have another chance at home to the same opposition in the league on Saturday.