DUDLEY Town couldn't hide their dismay this week when proposed opponents Worcester City pulled out of their pre-season friendly fixture at short notice.

The Robins were due to host the National League North side on Saturday at the Dell Stadium, but instead the players were left kicking their heels.

Worcester informed the Robins that they were unable to raise a side on Thursday evening and manager Andy Allardice admitted: "I didn't dare tell the lads until after training. They were all upset and downbeat because they had really been looking forward to the fixture.

"The game had been arranged as part of the deal when Worcester signed Marius Ologu from us - but they went back on their word."

Chairman Steve Austin added: "The embarrassment is with Worcester City - not with us."

The Robins were due to face Stourport Swifts on Wednesday night and then make the short trip to Tividale on Saturday.

Allardice has added one-time Nottingham Forest youth Ismael Diallo to his side along with Jordan Bladen, younger brother of prolific local marksman Chris Bladen, who was previously with Tipton Town.

He has also snapped up defenders Jordan McGovern and Luke Brookes after both impressed in pre-season.

Allardice has also added left back Reece Boswell to the Robins' ranks after the player initially started pre-season with Tividale.

He is also running the rule over trialists Oliver O'Connell and John Phillips.