ALVECHURCH boss Ian Long went back on his word this week by agreeing to play their opening pre-season friendly at Tipton Town.

Long had made an impromptu visit to Tipton's ground earlier in the week and declared the pitch was unplayable.

But Long relented after speaking to his players and revealed: "The pitch was awful and I told all the players in advance. But we turned up last Saturday and I asked the players there and then whether they wanted to play or not.

"One of them said no, but then changed his mind. Although some of the others turned their noses up at the pitch, they opted to play.

"I think had the game not been our first friendly, then it wouldn't have taken place and I would have been quite happy to call it off."

In the event, Alvechurch ran out easy 5-0 winners at Tipton and then followed up with a 6-0 success at Hereford Lads Club, who have been promoted to the West Midlands Premier Division this season.

Long added: "We've had it too easy so far, but the fixtures should become more challenging from now on."

This Saturday Alvechurch travel to Boldmere St Michaels to play Paget Rangers on their 3G pitch.

Next Tuesday, Church entertain Southern League Premier side Stratford Town at Lye Meadow.

That will be followed by games against Highgate United, Stourbridge and Redditch United before Church open their North Premier League Division One South campaign when they entertain Leek Town on August 12. That is followed by a trip to Gresley Rovers on August 15.

Supporters should note the game with Redditch has been brought forward to Friday, August 4.