Alvechurch 1–1 Leiston FC | Southern League Central Division | 25 April 2026

Alvechurch and Leiston FC shared the spoils in a 1–1 draw at Lye Meadow on Saturday, a result that does little to alter either side's mid-table position in the Southern League Central Division. The match was an evenly contested affair, with both teams showing attacking intent but ultimately settling for a point apiece.

Match Overview

The home side started with energy, pressing Leiston high and forcing early errors. Alvechurch’s pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when winger Josh March received the ball on the left flank, cut inside onto his right foot, and unleashed a curling effort that nestled into the far corner. The goal was a reward for Alvechurch’s bright opening period, during which they created two other promising half-chances.

Leiston responded well after the goal. They grew into the contest and began to control midfield possession. The equaliser came just before the half-hour mark: a corner kick was only partially cleared, and Leiston midfielder Harvey Sellers fired a low shot through a crowd of bodies into the bottom corner.

Key Moments

• 23' – March opener: A sharp individual strike gave Alvechurch the lead and silenced the travelling supporters.
• 28' – Sellers equaliser: A scrappy but effective finish from a set piece restored parity.
• 62' – Leiston pressure: The visitors hit the crossbar through a looping header, coming closest to a winner.

Tactical Story

Both teams adopted cautious approaches after the equaliser, with neither willing to overcommit. Alvechurch’s manager, Carl Adams, introduced fresh legs up front in the second half but found Leiston’s backline well organised. Leiston’s best chance came from a set piece routine that saw a header crash off the crossbar, but they could not find a decisive second goal.

The match was characterised by some physical midfield battles, with referee Mark Smith issuing four yellow cards across the two sides. Neither team managed to sustain attacking pressure for long periods, leading to a fragmented but hard-fought second half.

Standout Performers

• Josh March (Alvechurch): Scored a fine goal and was a constant outlet on the left wing, giving Leiston’s right-back a difficult evening.
• Harvey Sellers (Leiston): His goal was crucial, and his box-to-box running helped Leiston regain control after the early setback.
• Luke Trotman (Leiston): The goalkeeper made a vital save late in the first half, tipping a long-range effort onto the post.

League Context

The draw leaves Alvechurch in 11th place with 47 points, comfortably safe from relegation but too far from the play-off places to mount a serious challenge. Leiston sit two spots higher in ninth on 49 points, still with an outside chance of sneaking into the top five if they can put together a winning run in the final weeks of the season. Both clubs will view this as a missed opportunity to collect maximum points.