BROMSGROVE Rovers could parade three new signings in tonight's first round clash with Halesowen Town at the Victoria Ground (7.45).

They have secured striker Matt Southwick from Stourport Swifts, and ex-Rovers goalkeeper Neil Olden and defender Stuart Cole from Paget Rangers.

All three are expected to be in the squad to face Premier Division Halesowen, who should include two ex-Rovers favourites themselves in Stuart Payne and Peter Sutton.

Chief executive Pat Bannister is confident improving Rovers can pull off an upset. "They were disappointed they lost to Tiverton on Saturday but the mood they are in, we are still very confident. We seem to have done well in the cups this season."

Meanwhile, Rovers hope to start interviewing for their vacant manager's post later this week.

The club plans to draw up a shortlist of six from the applications received, with caretaker boss Eric McManus remaining in charge until the appointment is made.

Striker Richard Burgess is continuing to attract attention from Foot-ball League clubs. Northampton Town have invited him for a trial match while Nottingham Forest, Walsall, Leicester and Portsmouth have also expressed an interest in the former Worcester City player.

Rovers (from): Gabbidon, J. Beard, Ulfig, Townsend, Frost, Turpin, Benbow, Burgess, Pountney, Burrow, Biddle, Cameron, Phillpott, Bates, Southwick, Olden, Cole.