TEENAGE strike duo Tom Hobbs and James Smith have the potential to make it into the Worcester City first team, according to Mark Owen.

The St George's Lane stalwart, who has more than 100 goals to his name, is well placed to judge and as the club's assistant youth team development officer has been keeping a close eye on the second year academy students.

Both scored in City's 5-1 win in midweek against Dudley Sports, which saw them reach the semi finals of the Worcestershire FA Youth Cup.

Owen is pleased with their progress and believes they have a chance of emulating the Dan Parker and Liam McDonald and progressing into the first team squad.

"Tom and James are both doing well, both have represented the county and Tom has scored something like 24 goals this season," said Owen.

"They compliment each other well. Tom is probably a more natural scorer while James' back to goal work and hold up play is impressive."

"James has only just come back after three months out but if they keep improving and learning and show a willingness to listen they've got a chance of making it either here or somewhere else," added Owen.

Among City's current crop of first year academy students is Owen's younger brother, Andrew, who is also a forward.

The prospect of two Owens in the first team would be a sight for sore eyes for City supporters but there's a long way to go before there is any chance of that happening. "Andy's not played much football but this is a great opportunity for him together with the chance to go to college," said Owen.

"He's more of a target man - a real lanky piece of work - but he's got an eye for goal though his natural game is about work rate and back to goal work.

"Mind you he likes to rub it in when he scores and I don't."

Owen will be in action at Newport County today as City bid to win their first Dr Martens Premier Division match of the New Year.

After chalking up his fifth goal of the season last weekend, Owen is pleased with his general play but insists there is more work to do.

"I've been quite happy with my own performances since I've been given another chance and me and Leon Kelly are starting to look slightly better together," he said.

"I've always got to try to work on my hold up play and awareness but I still want to score goals."