ARCHDALES 73 were edged out 1-0 at new leaders Earlswood Town in an even top-of-the-table Midland Combination Division One clash.

Dales started the brighter of the two teams with Dan Harding-Hall going close and Andy Widdowson having a fine header well saved by in-form keeper Tom Hemmings. Against the run of play, Earlswood took the lead on the half-hour with a rasping 35-yarder into the top corner by Adam Holland giving Paul Wyatt no chance.

The keeper was quickly called into action again, making fine saves from Andy Keenahan and Richard Maguire to keep Dales in the game.

In the second-half, Earlswood controlled possession without really creating many chances.

At the other end, Luke Whittington had a super strike well saved by Hemmings.

In the final 10 minutes, Dales threw caution to the wind to try and find an equaliser but to no avail with Earlswood holding out for a fine victory.

Meanwhile, Droitwich Spa beat Alveston 4-3 in an entertaining President’s Cup second round clash.

Their reserves won 6-4 at Racing Club Warwick.