FOOTBALL: AN INCREDIBLE run of 44 league games unbeaten, stretching back almost two years has come to an end for Alvis Sporting after the tasted a 2-0 defeat at home to Coton Green in the Midland League Division Two.
Forced to play their home game on the Birmingham ground of Castle Vale due to ongoing ground improvements at their Green Lane base, Alvis controlled the game, but were unable to break down a determined Coton Green defence.
It took only 13 minutes for the visitors to go ahead with a low 20-yard shot to the left of Alvis goalkeeper James Wardle.
In the second half the game reached a climax in the closing minutes.
Alvis substitute, Shane Brassington, received a ball on his own goal line and then weaved his way almost the length of the pitch before his shot was blocked by the retreating defence.
With eight minutes added on for extra-time, Rickie Cutting produced a magnificent save from the Coton Green custodian, but from the resultant corner the whole of the Alvis side, including goalkeeper Wardle, were in the Coton Green penalty area, but the ball ran loose and Jake Walker hoofed the ball upfield for Matthew Green to score into an empty net.
“This was the first time we had not scored in the league since last August, and part of the reason was that the pitch was like a ploughed field,” said Alvis boss Damian Cassidy.
“We made a slow start but then created many chances, but I am convinced we would have won had the game been played at Green Lane.”
Alvis still retain their position in the promotion race with games in hand over their nearest rivals, but with both Paget Rangers and Droitwich Spa winning, this result has brought a little added pressure to the Coventry side.
