UNLUCKY Alcester Town lost interest in this season's Birmingham Vase after being knocked out 1-0 in the quarter-finals by Midland League Two side Northfield Town.

Alcester's ranks were heavily depleted with four of their regular starters cup-tied while another was suspended.

It meant manager Danny Janes having to play himself while Mark McAllister, Ryan Watson and Chris Mills were all handed their first start.

Alcester carved out the better chances in a goalless first half with Lewis Marston and Jamie Bailey both going close.

But Alcester couldn't convert their chances, Mills going closest when he saw a thunderous 30 yard strike tipped onto the crossbar.

Northfield netted the only goal with a far post header following a corner as Alcester ran out of ideas.

A devastated Janes said: "I really thought we could win and it could have been at least 3-0 in our favour by half time but we lacked quality with our final pass.

"In a quarter-final, you have to be ruthless and were not and got punished.

"To match a team in the league above shows our strength in depth and we did enough to win the game, which was pleasing, but we are the reason why we are out."

Alcester Town attempt to make amends this Saturday when they entertain Coventrians in the League Cup semi-finals.