Alvechurch 5

Willenhall Tn 2

IT MAY have sent shockwaves through the Midland Alliance and quickly acclaimed as the shock of the day...but joint-boss Neil Bryan knew a result like this was always in Alvechurch's locker.

Last week's 5-3 defeat to Stourbridge aside, Bryan had witnessed a recent revival in his team's ambitions - but results hadn't backed his optimism until now.

A second-half goal blitz, including three in four minutes, finally provided the proof.

"Some people have said it was a shock but not me," said Bryan whose side started the afternoon four places off the bottom against a side four places off the top.

"I have seen how we've created so many chances in matches and not got our rewards."

John Quilt put Willenhall ahead after 16 minutes only for Alvechurch's Brett Fitzpatrick to level before the break.

The former Redditch United striker then went on to complete his hat-trick after the break with Keith Rostill striking a double to leave the visitors reeling. Lee Bullimore finally gave them a second in the closing minutes.

"Everyone was bubbling afterwards," added Bryan. "We played very well and defended set pieces a lot better than we did against Stourbridge. Willenhall just couldn't live with Brett's pace up front."

Barring any injuries picked up at Quorn last night, Church should have a strong squad, including returning skipper Ross Knight, to face Rushall Olympic on Saturday.