ALVECHURCH took a big step towards securing a Southern League Central play-off place as they spoilt Kettering Town's promotion party.

The leaders needed victory last Saturday to secure the title but found Ian Long's men in no mood to be part of the occasion.

Church dug in against the champions in waiting to secure a vital 2-1 win.

Jamie Willets' opener was cancelled out by the hosts before Mitch Botfield struck two minutes from time to take the points.

Manager Long was delighted with the win but has challenged his side to follow up the success when Coalville visit Lye Meadow this Saturday (3pm kick-off).

He said: "Obviously they had the chance to win the league but it wasn't really about spoiling their party. It was all about what it did for us.

"They are bonus points for us really because we didn't expect to get much from the game.

"We had to change the way we played a little bit because we like to get the ball down and play but instead had to dig in and be dogged.

"The pitch was one of the worst I've seen in 10 years and we had to adapt to that as well.

"The most pleasing thing is the way the players adapted to the conditions and the situation.

"In the end I think we've had the better chances in the game.

"The challenge now is to back up that win when we play Coalville.

"It's no good going to Kettering and getting the win and then slipping up at home to Coalville.

"The win would be a huge step towards the play-offs because the teams chasing us will be running out of games.

"The Kettering win gives us a lot of confidence and gives us belief that we're capable of to going to places like King's Lynn or Stourbridge in the play-offs should we get there.

"It's all about following it up."

Josh Ezewele may still be struggling with a hamstring injury this weekend but Lee Chilton could be available again following a stomach strain.