EARLY season leaders Alvechurch and Hopwood have now slipped back to third spot in Worcester County League Division Three following an eight wicket defeat against Martley.
Opening bat James Pilkington plundered 35 before Alvechurch began losing wickets to the bowling of Mark Johnson, who took three for 28 and James Ganderton with five for 48.
It was former Redditch United and Alvechurch striker Keith Rostill who turned matters around with a timely 82.
Rostill found support from Dan Wolstencroft who added another 38 as Alvechurch reached 240 all out with one ball to spare.
Martley made light of their reply.
Despite losing the early wickets of Ganderton and wicketkeeper Birchley, Alvechurch's attack was unable to make anymore impression as Martley skipper Dominic Taylor with 81 not out and Alex Basford on 90 not out fired their side to a winning 242 for two in the 32nd over.
Alvechurch and Hopwood attempt to bounce straight back when they visit Hanley Castle and Upton this Saturday.
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