ALVECHURCH'S marathon run-in has been further complicated by Challenge Cup controversy.

Church were set to visit Alveston in the quarter final tomorrow night after knocking high-fliers Romulus out 2-0 at the weekend.

But the competition has been held up by an appeal from Division One side Burntwood, ejected from the competition for fielding a suspended player in a victory over Alveston.

Midland Combination officials were forced to allow a replay of the tie on Saturday, after an appeal was heard on Monday night.

The confusion unfolded this week to the bemusement of Alvechurch manager Mick Preece.

Church, who have amazingly been handed an open date on Saturday, now entertain Coventry Sphinx in a league match on Tuesday (ko 7.45pm) rather than a Challenge Cup semi final.

And the Lye Meadow landlords visit neighbours Feckenham in the Smedley Crooke Cup semi final next Thursday (ko 7.30pm).

Alvechurch expect to welcome back defender Paul Summers (university commitments), midfielders Brett Skinner (cup-tied), Dean Tilley (work commitments) and Christian Townsend (toe injury) and striker Michael Campbell (work) on Tuesday.

But defender Nolan Talbot is doubtful after his wife gave birth to their second child.

A Dean Meyrick brace fired the Churchmen through at the weekend.