Spalding United’s hopes of reaching the competition proper for the first time since 1964 were thwarted by a late comeback from Alvechurch in a replay match held on Sunday. The Southern League Premier Central side secured a 2-2 draw at home, forcing a further replay scheduled for Tuesday.

Dan Jarvis gave Spalding United an early advantage, scoring twice to put the away team in control for much of the match. His first goal came in the 17th minute when he neatly finished a cross from Dan Barton. Jarvis extended the lead to 2-0 just after the hour mark, expertly rounding Alvechurch goalkeeper Redman Evans before slotting the ball in after a pass from Ben Fowkes.

Alvechurch, however, showed resilience and gradually mounted a comeback. While Ben Stephens had earlier tested the Spalding defense with a shot that struck the bar, it was forward Miracle Okafor who inspired the revival. He came close to scoring several times in the first half, hitting the post and forcing Spalding goalkeeper Peter Crook into a save.

With just seven minutes remaining, Okafor reduced the deficit by skillfully turning inside before driving a low shot into the corner of the net. The Southern League side then completed their comeback in stoppage time when Okafor calmly converted a penalty after Crook was penalized for fouling an Alvechurch attacker while attempting to claim a cross.

Spalding United, known as the Tulips, must now prepare for the replay in Alvechurch, where the home side will look to capitalize on their late momentum and secure advancement in the competition.