JORDAN Archer is keen for the opportunity to lead Stourbridge's forward line this season.

Archer has big boots to fill following the departure of top scorer Luke Benbow over the summer but says regular football last term played a big part in his improvement.

Stour begin their campaign at home to Matlock Town this Sunday (3pm kick-off) and Archer has set his sights on firing the Amblecote outfit to another promotion charge.

He said: "I can't wait to get started now, especially after coming so close last season. Hopefully we can go one better this time.

"Pre-season has gone well, I've got a lot of minutes in the tank, am feeling sharp, feeling fitter and can't wait to get going.

"Benbow's gone now, a lot of quality has gone too but the manger has also brought in a lot of good players as well.

"I just want to score as many goals as I can and help the team get to where we want to be. We don't want to leave it to the play-off like we did last year when we came so close.

"I think playing with better players has helped me since I came to the club. At Tividale, Ian Long gave me a good chance to play week-in, week-out and it's the same here where Gary has given me the chance to do the same and it's only good for me. Hopefully I can keep progressing.

"The way we played suited me last season as we got a lot of balls in the box. I'm good in the air and like to attack crosses so hopefully we can do the same."

Archer also hopes the Stour faithful can help cheer the club to more success once the season gets underway.

He added: "The fans were fantastic last season. In the play-off semi-final we were tired but the fans pushed us through and hopefully they can do same again when we need it."