IAN Long was alarmed by Alvechurch’s FA Cup collapse after Saturday’s 4-2 defeat to Hereford at Edgar Street.

The Lye Meadow outfit had streaked to 2-0 lead thanks to goals for Jack Cresswell and Josh Sarmento.

They had looked comfortable until the 67th minute when the Bulls scored and then powered into a 3-2 lead.

Church saw an 86th-minute leveller by Josh March ruled out for offside and Hereford made sure of a place in the first qualifying round from the spot, when Connor Deards fouled Pablo Haysham in the box.

Long said: “We had looked in control until the 67th minute but we crumbled under the pressure. There was a strong wind so we knew it was going to be a game of two halves but until that moment we had looked comfortable. We’ve played at Hereford several times before so we know what it’s like and I can’t fault the referee who had a good game.

“The goal was had ruled out was very close and if that had stood it might have been a different result.”

Church are still waiting for their first win in the Midlands Premier and face a testing set of fixtures, starting at home to Lye Town on Tuesday night. They then go to table-topping Long Eaton on Saturday and Highgate United on Bank Holiday Monday (both games 3pm ko).

“I don’t think the league will be won by the same large points total as last year,” said the Church boss. “I also think there will be ten teams who can win it this season and if we can put a run of eight or so wins together we’ll be in a good position. We’ve drawn our first two league games but the quicker we get a first win the better.”