MARK Yates is hoping to get the best out of talented midfielder Michael McGrath.

The Kidderminster Harriers boss surprised many by signing McGrath who struggled to break into the first teams at lower-ranked Redditch United and Bromsgrove Rovers.

But he did enough last season to earn a one-year contract at Aggborough and he has scored in their last two pre-season friendlies.

The left-footed 20-year-old will be looking to add a goal at neighbours Stourport Swifts tonight (7.45) to his efforts at Cinderford Town and former club Bromsgrove.

Harriers manager Yates said: "Michael has got a lot of ability, we know that and that's why we signed him.

"It's up to us to make sure we get the best out of that ability and he did well at Bromsgrove.

"We scored four good goals, picked up another win and passed another pre-season test, so we're pleased with that."

Harriers, unbeaten in pre-season so far, featured trialist right-backs Steve May and Martin Naylor, from Brighton and TNS respectively, in the win at Rovers.

The position is one that needs filling for Yates who has already looked at former Aston Villa youngster Ashley Edkins. Current players Gavin Hurren and Stuart Whitehead are also capable of filling the right-back role.

Centre-half Mark Preece, veteran striker Bob Taylor, winger Brian Smikle, former youth teamer Scott Eaton and ex-Wolves youngster Jordan Fitzpatrick are trying to win contracts.

Eaton and Taylor scored against Bromsgrove to help their causes.

Meanwhile, Stourport Swifts boss Roy Rencher saw his Southern League Division One Midland side lose their first pre-season friendly 2-0 to Hednesford on Saturday.