JOSH Dugmore scored a stunning winner on his return from injury as Alvechurch edged out Redditch United 1-0 in a local derby.
Dugmore marked his return from a near nine-month injury by smashing home a sensational winner on 77 minutes at Lye Meadow.
And the result means Church sit 12th in the Southern League Premier Central with Redditch five places further back in 17th just five points above the relegation zone.
The game’s decisive moment came on 77 minutes as Dugmore lashed a stunning shot into the top left corner of the goal from the edge of the penalty area.
Dugmore came off the bench just five minutes before scoring the game’s only goal.
And Church boss Tim Flowers praised the quality of Dugmore’s strike following his long battle with injury.
Flowers said: “Only something like that [Dugmore’s goal] was going to settle it, it was an absolute war of attrition.
“The actual strike that wins the game is an absolute worldie, I don’t think anyone is saving that, it’s a wonderful strike.
“I’m so pleased for the kid because he’s had a tortuous time with injury.
“Finally, he gets his little chance and he goes and does that.”
Redditch saw their winless run stretch to seven matches with Matt Clarke’s side without a victory on the road since November.
And Clarke admits he needs more from his players at the top end of the pitch.
Clarke said: “The game lacked any real quality from both teams apart from the goal.
“Fair play to Josh Dugmore, he’s been out for a long time, it was a fantastic strike and a fitting way to win a derby unfortunately.
“We got into some really good areas but we were having a really rough time in the final third.
“It’s a big worry because the front boys are not contributing and not scoring.
“We’re not creating enough for them but we’re not doing well enough in the final third.
“With eight games to go, we’re fighting for our lives, that’s a big concern.”
Alvechurch host local rivals Bromsgrove Sporting on Tuesday, March 11 with kick-off at 7.45pm at Lye Meadow
Redditch are next in action against Bedford Town on Saturday, March 15 with kick-off at 3pm at the Valley Stadium.
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