Tuesday, July 23, 2002

BROMSGROVE Rovers slumped to a 3-1 defeat against old rivals Stourbridge at the Victoria Ground last night.

Paul Lloyd scored Rovers' goal but joint manager Gary Hackett admitted they still had plenty of work to do in preparation for their return to the Dr Martens Western League which kicks off on August 17.

"It was a disappointing work out for us but in some ways you learn more in defeat than victory," said Hackett.

"We've still got a long way to go and with four or five new players as yet we are still trying to sort out the system."

However Hackett was excited by the display of attacking youngster Ashley Read, who arrived from Cirencester Town, while he singled out veteran Stewart Brighton for praise.

"Ashley has got plenty of raw potential and we are very excited about him while in the three games we have played Stewart has been the best player and even though he is getting on a bit still looks a very good footballer."

But Hackett said the defeat by Stourbridge was a timely wake up call for the Victoria Ground club.

"It taught us a lesson that we have still got a lot of work to do before August 17," he added.

"We've got a few players just back from holiday and they've got to step it up but we are not alarmed and we know what we have got to do."

Bromsgrove's next opponents will be Midland Alliance outfit Willenhall Town at the Victoria Ground on Saturday (3pm). After that they face Hereford United at home on Tuesday (7.45).