NEIL Mitchell says he is still working hard behind the scenes to improve Stourbridge's squad.

Even though the Stourton Park director at rugby has conceded his team is well out of the promotion picture after a difficult campaign so far, he feels there is still plenty to work on as the season progresses.

Mitchell has been left frustrated in his search for new recruits but underlined his desire to build for the future, especially after the side's impressive first half showing during the 44-12 away defeat to league leaders Ampthill and District last Saturday.

"We may be unable to challenge for promotion but we will cause problems for a lot of teams," he said. "The first half against Ampthill showed there is something to work with and build on.

"We still lack numbers and it has been difficult to get new people in. I am now working to add new addition from further afield as well as having one eye on the future."

With that in mind, Mitchell praised the recent form of young scrum half Jacob Nash.

"He has done really well since he came into the side," he added. "We have a good bunch of guys and his addition shows we are looking to build on what we already have here."

Against Ampthill, Stour went in at the break leading 12-7 after Nash snapped up a try on 12 minutes when forcing his way over from short range.

The visitors then shocked the league leaders by going in front when Drew Harper made a decisive break before sending Nathan Geekie over to score with Gary Dipple adding the conversion.

However, the home side hit back in devastating fashion in the second half to claim a comprehensive victory.

"I am far from disappointed with the Ampthill game," said Mitchell. "Their coach said it was their toughest test of the season so far.

"We now need to build on that and make sure we are moving in the right direction again."

Stour are hoping both Ben Hughes and Jon Higgins will return to the side for this Saturday's visit of Sedgley Park following their absence last weekend.