OLD Halesonians expect to be pressing for promotion again this season from National League Midlands after finishing third last term.

Director of Rugby Gary Cox predicts the title challenge could turn into a three horse race involving Hales, Birmingham and Solihull plus Broadstreet who were relegated from National League Two North.

Cox claimed: "There's always the unknown with clubs like Derby, Bridgnorth and Bedford Athletic coming up while Sheffield Tiger have come down.

" Bees have recruited well from Coventry and I expect them to be strong along with Broadstreet who have strong links with Wasps."

Cox is optimistic about his own club's chances after making several key signings over the summer.

He has brought in former Nuneaton prop Adam Wilson together with back row player Adam Wilson who has played at Championship level with both Birmingham and Solihull and at Cornish Pirates where he suffered a serious knee injury.

Cox has also captured scrum half Chris Danks from local rivals Bromsgrove, while versatile backs player Mark Briggs and New Zealander Martin Hooker have arrived at Wassell Grove, again from Birmingham and Soliuhull.

Cox revealed : "I was only looking to top up the side with three or four new players but Briggs and Hooker turned up for training on their own volition. I've still got one or two irons in the fire as well, the players I have in mind are pretty fit anyway and should be able to hit the ground running."

Cox confirmed he was likely to lose scrum half Dave Hadkiss who has moved to the Chesterfield area and would be unable to train.

In addition versatile Tom Jordan has gone into semi-retirement but Cox still hopes to have him available at some point.

Hales have arranged friendly fixtures with Warwickshire side Newbold on Avon at Wassell Grove on August 6 and then host Bournville on August 20.