Alvechurch 2

Coventry Marconi 1

Substitute Andy Hicks gave Alvechurch FC an opening day boost by firing the winner six minutes from time to secure all three points for the Lye Meadow side.

However, Marconi can think themselves unfortunate not to have got at least a point out of a match in which they controlled much of the play in midfield.

Alvechurch's starting line up included the two new signings, Dean Tilly and Nicolas Lamorte, in an otherwise familiar team from last season.

Both sides made openings early on with Lamorte looking particularly dangerous for Church.

Marconi nearly took the lead, however, after nine minutes when Carulan's 25-yard shot hit the post and rebounded to safety.

The home side hit back and Meyrick's close range effort screwed just wide of the post after 20 minutes.

Marconi continued to create opportunities, with Smith shooting wide and then Lewis in the Alvechurch goal saving well from Mee after 27 minutes.

The Alvechurch defence, with Nolan Talbot in superb form, held firm and the half finished without any score.

Marconi immediately went on the attack at the start of the second period with Abercrombie's header clearing the bar from the edge of the area.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 54th minute with Nick Lamorte latched onto a loose ball outside the penalty area and rocketed a brilliant shot into the top corner of the net.

Marconi replied with Stevenson going close in the 57th minute and Lewis saving at full stretch six minutes later.

The visitors equalised after 68 minutes when Lewis tipped a free kick onto the bar before Stevenson tapped home the rebound.

Alvechurch manager Mick Preece immediately replaced Carl Dainter and Brett Skinner with Paul Court and Andy Hicks.

Alvechurch regained the initiative with a succession of corners and the winner came from a knock down in the area from which Andy Hicks fired home.

The drama continued right to the end with Danny Wilson making brilliant saves in the 86th and 89th minute.

l On Saturday at the Ryland Centre, Bromsgrove, Alvechurch Reserves beat Continental Star 4-0.

The scorers were Robert Brassington, Charley Keys, Michael Campbell and Aaron Parr.