ALVECHURCH signalled their return to level three of Non League football for the first time in over 40 years this week with a goalless draw at home to Hertfordshire side Royston Town.

In a game of few chances, Church struck the crossbar during first half exchanges through Aaron Lloyd.

Church then had to thank defender Mitch Botfield for producing a goal saving tackle to keep out Royston's Martell Powell in the second half.

Royston then had an Adam Murray goal ruled out for offside but Church could have easily grabbed all the points when Aaron Lloyd's late volley flew agonisingly wide.

Despite being held to a draw, Church boss Ian Long admitted to be happy with a share of the points and insisted: "It wasn't a great game, but important that we got off the mark and I think we'll only improve from this performance.

"Royston were a big, strong and powerful side who didn't allow us to pass the ball as we would have liked.

"I was equally delighted that we kept a clean sheet, because that was one of my concerns in pre-season but goalkeeper Charlie Price only really had one good save to make".

Long was missing several key players from his side but was confident that defender Ryan Winwood would return in time for their midweek trip to Tamworth.

Midfield player David Bellis remains absent while there are still concerns over their summer signing from Halesowen Town Kyle Morrison.

The central defender is still suffering with a knee problem that could require another scan.

Church travel to Coalville this Saturday, who like Church, were promoted to the Central Division this term.