ALVECHURCH boss Ian Long is confident his players can cause a play-off upset at Stourbridge this week.

Church face neighbours Stour at the War Memorial Ground in Wednesday night's semi-final clash.

The two side's drew 3-3 when they met in the league a fortnight ago and Long believes his side can prevail despite making the Glassboys firm favourites in front of their home fans.

He said: "I think most people would put them down as favourites because of where they finished and the financial clout they have.

"I think the pressure is all on them to be honest but I also think we were the better side when we played them the other week.

"We know where we need to be better from that game and it's just a big game with all to play for now.

"I have a lot of confidence in my side and am quite confident they can go there and hurt them and have the ability to get the result.

"We've massively overachieved this season and no one expects us to go up, which is the opposite of the expectations at Stourbridge.

"It's a game we didn't think we'd have so hopefully we can just enjoy it.

"It's our reward for all the hard work this season and we just have to embrace it."

Meanwhile, the clash has been given some added spice this week after Long accused the Glassboys of making an approach for one of his players.

He explained: "One of my players, Ash Carter, has been approached by a Stourbridge player asking him about next season.

"It's a little bit naughty really and I'm not happy about it.

"I thought they'd have an eye on the play-off game between us but it seems they have eyes for my players instead."

Church lost 1-0 at Needham Market on Saturday but the boss is keen to move on, adding: "We were rubbish really and just played like a side that had one eye on the play-offs.

"We rested a few so we'll just forget it and move on now."

Aaron Lloyd picked up a knock at the weekend and came off as a precaution but should be fit for Wednesday.

Dave Bellis, Tom Turton and Josh March should all return after missing the Needham Market clash.