GARY Hackett is backing Stourbridge's home-grown striking talent to shine this season.

The Glassboys boss says fans can look forward to seeing much more of young forward Bradon Hague after an impressive pre-season showing by the academy graduate.

Hague broke through last season and featured from the bench early in the campaign before injury curtailed his progress.

However, the departure of top scorer Luke Benbow over the summer, as well as key attackers Matt Dodd and Chris Lait, has now opened the door.

Another former Stour youth prospect aiming to make his mark again is Jordon Murphy. The 21-year-old has returned to Amblecote after spells with Kidderminster Harriers and Worcester City after he initially left to sign for Walsall.

Hackett said: "One player that has really hit the ground running is Bradon Hague. He did well last summer but had a long absence due to a nasty ear infection that took a long time to diagnose.

"He's 12 months older now though and we'll be seeing a lot more of him this season.

"He has done really well and will get his chance.

"It's good to see young players that have come through the youth set-up, which is also the case for Jordon Murphy. Both can do well this season."

They will be supported by another familiar face in Ryan Rowe. The 29-year-old returns to the club for a fourth spell.

Hackett is pleased with Stour's summer signings and their pre-season preparations.

He added: "It's all about trying to get the players as ready as we can and getting the fitness right for the start of the season, which I think we have done.

"We've put them through some really tough sessions which has meant they haven't been at their freshest for the games we've played but it will hopefully stand us in good stead.

"We lost a few players but managed to get our own business done nice and early. It meant we have had plenty of time to work with the new players."

The boss has moved to bolster his back-line with the addition of seasoned campaigner Paul McCone. He could form an experienced centre back pairing with Stuart Pierpoint when the season gets back underway.

Hackett moved to add McCone to his squad after Liam Slade moved on following a knee injury and Jack Duggan continues to push for full fitness after shoulder surgery.

Stour will round off their pre-season preparations with a trip to take on Southern League Premier title favourites Hereford FC at Edgar Street this Saturday (3pm).

The Glassboys have been invited to contest the Herefordshire FA Senior Invitational Cup against the home side, a trophy that dates back to the early 1950s.

Club Officials have now confirmed that the opening league fixture at home to Matlock Town will be played on Sunday, August 13 at 3pm due to cricket at Amblecote the day before.

Meanwhile, the club will be selling season tickets and flexi-tickets for the coming season from the club shop at the War Memorial Ground between 11am and 12.30pm this Sunday.