MANAGER Gary Hackett says he could yet strengthen his Stourbridge squad after assessing a host of trialists during their friendly victory over Leamington.

The Glassboys made a winning start to their pre-season programme last Saturday after fielding a side of new arrivals, youth team players and trialists.

Former Walsall teenage left-sided player Lewis Probert, ex-Westfields, Bromyard and Littleton midfielder Brad Birch and former Kidderminster Harriers academy forward Callum Parker all played in the 4-1 win at their old Southern League rivals.

Stour’s squad has already taken shape after last week’s four new additions were added to those that committed from last term.

Striker Luke Benbow, central defender Jack Duggan and midfielder Jake Heath arrived from Rushall Olympic, while former Halesowen Town attacker Aaron Daniels also agreed to sign.

However, Hackett says there is still room at the War Memorial Ground for further additions if they can take their opportunity during pre-season.

“The squad is nearing completion and we are happy with the balance of the side, but that doesn’t mean we won’t add someone else,” he said.

“The nucleus is there now, especially with our four new arrivals, but we won’t rule out adding others.”

Meanwhile, the boss was pleased with the Leamington success and the impact made by the club’s youngsters.

A brace from Chris Lait and strikes from new boy Jake Heath and trialist Birch cancelled out an opener from Leamington’s Joe Magunda.

Last season’s youth team players that saw second-half action were goalkeeper Tom Hayward, defender Jacob Wedderburn and striker Brandon Hague, who caught the eye in his 25-minute cameo.

“Considering we had a team that has hardly played together, we did really well. I have to be pleased with that,” said Hackett.

“We defended well and took our chances well at the other end, though I do think 4-1 flattered us a little.

“The young players also did very well and showed they have big potential.

“We have been monitoring Brandon Hague with a view to getting him involved and he was a breath of fresh air when he came on.”

The game also featured a return to the red and white stripes for striker Kayleden Brown, who is on the comeback trail after injury and work commitments.

“He offers us something different and is a tremendously fit lad,” said the boss.

“He has had a few injury problems but has a strong feeling for the club and vice versa. He will have the chance to prove his fitness in pre-season.”

Stour visit Stourport Swifts on Friday (7.30pm) before having their first taste of competitive action on Monday when they host Kidderminster Harriers in the Worcestershire Senior Cup (7.45pm), with the winners going on to play at Evesham United in the semi-finals.

Admission for the cup tie is £6 adults, £5 seniors, £2 11-16 year olds and free for under-11s accompanied by a paying adult.

Sam Whittall has now moved to rivals Rushall and George Bowerman has linked up with Stafford Rangers.