ROSS Thorpe feels new-look Alvechurch have turned a corner after taking six points from a possible nine over Christmas.

The Churchmen record a league double over Stourport Swifts thanks to Jamie Spencer’s brace.

Dale Edwards marked his debut after joining from Studley with a double on Boxing Day as Alvechurch stunned leaders Highgate United and ended their 20-match unbeaten run with a 3-0 victory, with Luke Shearer bagging the other.

They felt the effects of a busy fixture list on Saturday, as they went down 3-1 at Coventry Sphinx, despite taking the lead through Jack Cresswell.

He said: “The boys have done well. It was disappointing to lose to Coventry after two really good wins but the the squad was feeling the effects of so many games.

“It has taken a while for the new players to settle in but they’re are starting to find their feet.”

Thorpe is hoping Alvechurch have not seen the back Spencer, who joined Rushall Olympic.

He added: “Jamie’s on a dual registration so he can still play for us but if he starts scoring goals for Rushall I can’t rely expect him to play for us.

“Overall if I have 18 or 19 first team players and a few under-16s players I will be happy.”

Alvechurch entertain Tipton on Thursday (7.45pm ko) and Westfields on Saturday (3pm ko) and go to Tividale on Tuesday (7.45pm ko).