DUDLEY Town boss Ian Rowe believes he has pulled off a coup by snapping up Darlaston Town defender Craig Frost.

The highly-rated centre-back had been chased by a number of clubs in the region but has chosen to join the Robins challenge for promotion from the West Midlands Premier.

Rowe has also raided troubled Darlaston for left back John Charters, while central midfielder Richard Young has rejoined Town following a two year abscence.

It means Rowe has brought nine new faces to the Dell this summer, including five from Darlaston.

Rowe said: “I am over the moon to have got Craig, all the top teams in the league were after him.

“He can play in central defence or in midfield and will be a real asset, I just can’t wait for the season to start.”

The Robins got their pre-season schedule off to a solid start with a comfortable 3-1 win over Midland Combination Division One outfit Northfield Town at Tipton Academy on Monday.

Goals from Lee Wherton, Mensah Kinch and new signing Chris Busby sealed victory in an entertaining game, Kinch’s 30-yard thunderbolt very much the highlight.