HALESOWEN Town striker James Roberts has left the club to sign for Hereford.

The hitman, who has netted eight times for the Yeltz this season, wasn't under contract at the Grove and has now chosen to link up with the National League North outfit.

Boss John Hill said: "It's a massive blow for us because James has done really well.

"He wasn't on anyone's radar in the summer but if you start scoring a few at any level then suddenly people will start looking at you.

"We have been trying to get him to sign a contract for the last few months but he didn't want to be tied down.

"I can't say a bad word about him though and he's going to a big club that is higher up the ladder.

"It's a big miss for us but all we can do is work hard to replace him, which is what we are doing now. We also have a few options in the squad as well.

"Good strikers are like gold dust but you can't get too down about these things and you just need to keep moving forwards."

The Yeltz maintained their unbeaten home record this term when drawing 1-1 with Needham Market last Saturday.

Lee Hughes opened the scoring but Hales couldn't hold on.

Hill added: "There was little to choose between the two sides all game but we went ahead and then had a big chance to make it 2-0.

"If we'd have taken that I think we'd have gone on to win it. Instead they equalised and we were lucky not to lose in the end.

"It's all fine margins at the moment and we've been doing well. The draw does maintain some momentum and it also keeps us unbeaten at home."

Halesowen now turn their attention to the FA Trophy when they go to Grantham Town this Saturday.

They have no major injury concerns but midfielder Jordan Goddard has chosen to seek a new challenge after finding game time hard to come by.

Meanwhile, coach Richard Sneekes has also left the club this week.

The former West Bromwich Albion midfielder and Rushall Olympic boss has not been able to commit fully to the Yeltz this season due to work commitments.

Hill explained: "We've been aware of the situation for a while now. Rich has been with us during the games but hasn't been able to take as many sessions since pre-season.

"His ability and knowledge will be missed but again we'll work to resolve the situation."

Hill said he and assistant boss Matt Clarke were hoping to talk to veteran striker Lee Hughes about filling the coaching gap at the Grove.