BOSS Paul Smith says he's learned a lot from Halesowen Town's last two pre-season performances.

The Yeltz lost 2-1 at home to Stourbridge last Saturday before drawing 1-1 at Lye Town on Tuesday night.

The boss was happy with the way his players performed in defeat against the Glassboys but was less pleased with the showing against Lye, where a 79th minute Montel Gibson strike was needed to salvage a draw.

The contrasting showings have given Smith plenty to think about as his summer preparations continue.

He said: "I was very pleased with the performance against Stourbridge, especially as we were without seven players that would be very close to the starting team when the season starts.

"To go toe-to-toe with a strong Stourbridge side that will be one of the favourites to get promotion from the league above was very impressive.

"On another day we might have got something out of the game too. We hit the bar, had one cleared off the line and their keeper made two brilliant saves.

"The game against Lye was pleasing for me in different ways, mainly because we were awful.

"It was our worst performance of the pre-season so far and we were a million miles away from the levels and patterns of play that we have been hitting.

"The one pleasing aspect was that we still managed to find a way and to get back into the game. That trait is something we will need once the season starts.

"The important thing is that I learned a lot from both games in the last four days."

George Forsyth has had his protective boot removed now and is hoping to be fit in time for the first game at Yaxley on August 17 following a metatarsal injury.

Midfielder duo Robbie Bunn (ankle) and Josh Hawker (calf) have both missed friendly games recently but are now close to featuring again.

The Yeltz will now welcome Kidderminster Harriers to the Grove this Saturday (3pm kick-off).