MANAGER Ross Thorpe is hoping some of his new signings they can end their nomadic ways and use Alvechurch as the perfect platform to move up the leagues.

The Churchmen snapped up Bromsgrove Sporting attacker Rico Taylor this week.

Taylor had a spell at Skrill Premier stalwarts Tamworth after spells at Stafford Rangers.

He joins the likes of Jack Cresswell, who recently signed from Studley, who had a season at Kidderminster Harriers after being released by Walsall.

"Rico is a really talented player, he works hard, is quick but can pass the ball and beat a player," said an exicted Thorpe.

"He's been at Tamworth so has had a taste of what is needed to succeed and hopefully here he can settle down and do well.

"Jack's the same. Players are always thinking they must play in the Conference Premier or Football League but sometimes you have to drop a level below and earn that right."

Alvechurch will be hoping to bounce back after being edged out 1-0 by Westfields at Lye Meadow in the FA Vase on Saturday.

Both teams had chances but Alvechurch's Midland Alliance rivals won the match in the 84th minute when defender Phil Glover pounced.

The manager could not fault his players and also hailed the impact of keeper Stuart Parsons.

Parsons has joined on loan from Solihull Moors after previous first choice Liam Maher was released.

He said: "Both keepers were in excellent form and I thought the game was heading towards a replay when they scored.

"Credit where it's due, Highgate are a good side.

"I could not fault the players, they had given everything and were absolutely gutted.

"I've told the players to put this result behind them and we've got plenty of games to coming up."

He added: "Stuart pulled off some good saves and has done very well.

"I had a chat with Liam and Guy Clark and they have moved on, I wish them the best of luck."

Alvechurch, who played Shepshed Dynamo in the Alliance last night, entertain AFC Wulfrunians at home on Saturday (3pm ko) and Thorpe is looking to strengthen his squad.

He said: "At the moment we've only got 13 players or so available and I want to bring in good players to make sure we can cope with a busy period.

"It's about managing what players you have without damaging results."