THE Villagers travelled to Brickfields to face AFC West Midlands on Sunday.

AFC WEST MIDLANDS 3, VILLAGERS 1

The pitch, almost unplayable, would mean chances falling to both sides with the long ball being the only tactic available.

The Villagers struggled to adjust their game in the first-half but managed to win a penalty from a Ronny Oseman throw-in. Neil Morgan handed the penalty to captain John Tilley, who was looking to score after missing earlier in the season. Unfortunately, he fired wide and the score remained 0-0.

AFC used this to push on and soon scored the opening goal.

The Villagers appeared to go particularly quiet after the goal and AFC soon had a second, although the Villagers were still putting together good spells of possession.

Second-half and the Villagers brought on Carl Regan and Adam Dover in hope they might get them back in the game but it was John Tilley who scored from 10 yards after a goalmouth scramble.

With enough time left, the Villagers began to dominate and Neil Morgan was played down the left by Phil Dyde, his cross was measured to perfection but Roly Green's connection flew just wide of the target.

Phil Wild also went close in the dying minutes, although managing to squeeze the ball between the keeper's legs, his shot was cleared off the line by the defender.

With AFC now in the ascent and with Villagers' goalkeeper Mark Tilley off injured, Sadi Ali was left with no chance from close range and at 3-1 the game was ended.

A special mention goes to 18-year-old man-of-the-match Jamie Plant, who's tackling and attitude was again inspirational.

Many thanks to sponsors E&E Engineering Ltd, Worcester