ALVECHURCH'S promotion charge suttered this week when held to a 1-1 draw at Newcastle Town.

Luke Yates levelled matters for Church immediately after they had fallen behind but boss Ian Long insisted it was two points dropped.

Long lamented: "Conditions were terrible - but they were the same for both sides.

"After playing so well against Gresley, this was unacceptable because we didn't perform and we were lucky to get away with a point.

"I told the players afterwards they need to show more character because we looked lethargic at times and I felt sorry for all our supporters who made the trip."

Church's long distance trip to Cleethorpes on Thursday looks set to be put on hold after Monday's proposed contest with West Bromwich Albion in the Birmingham Senior Cup was called off.

The Albion game is now likely to played on Thursday instead as the Birmingham Senior Cup takes precedent and all supporters are asked to check with the club.

There will be no let-up for Church who entertain Spalding on Saturday and then host Cleethorpes on Tuesday.

Long added: "If the Albion game goes ahead on Thursday, players have to be sensible, because to me, the Spalding game is the priority.

"Obviously everyone wants to play against the Albion but they have to realise where we are in the league and where we want to be next season."

An army of players, supporters and club officials were out in force on Sunday helping to clear snow off their Lye Meadow pitch.

Long said: "We may not have the biggest support, but they are an extremely loyal bunch and I want to thank everyone who volunteered to turn out and help."