Halesowen Town go with experience
Halesowen Town have got a couple of strikers who have been prolific in the Football League ahead of life in the newly-formed Southern League Central.
Former Albion favourite Lee Hughes has committed to another season with the Yeltz following some impressive showings at the back end of last term.
And he has been joined at The Grove by ex-Wolves hotshot Sylvan Ebanks-Blake.
Their best days may be behind them, but Hughes, at 42, is as hungry as ever – based on his wholehearted displays so far for John Hill’s side.
Ebanks-Blake, who is 10 years younger, is out to prove a point after a short stint with AFC Telford United in National League North last campaign.
As well as time with the Baggies, Hughes enjoyed success at Coventry City, Oldham Athletic, Notts County, Port Vale and Kidderminster Harriers.
He won the Baggies’ player of the year in 1998/99 and has a promotion to the Premier League, a League Two title and another promotion from league Two on his CV.
Ebanks-Blake was the Championship’s top scorer in 2007/08 and 2008/09, with Wolves winning the title and going up to the top flight in the latter.
He has also played for Plymouth Argyle, Ipswich Town, Preston North End, Chesterfield and Shrewsbury Town – after coming through the ranks at Manchester United.
Some may baulk at the fact their combined age is 74, but Hill knows not that many in non-league have a similar pedigree and is confident they will be a menace to many defences in the division.
Goalkeeper Daniel Platt, who is the club’s fifth all-time appearance holder, is still with the club as well, as are promising full-back Jack Kelly, veteran defender Asa Charlton and skipper Dan Bragoli.
Dimiti Dunkley, Andy Haworth and James Roberts are among the new arrivals.
As well as having a healthy-looking squad, Halesowen are in high spirits after seemingly putting their off-field troubles to an end.
Club stalwart Colin Brookes completed a takeover of the club earlier this summer, agreeing a deal with now former owners the Lynch family for around £50,000.
That brought to an end months of uncertainty after ex-owner Steve Lynch was hit with a two-year ban by the FA, and it is understood Hill’s playing budget was increased for this season.
Their first test in the new league, following moving from the Northern Premier which starts next weekend, is at home, against Lowestoft Town tomorrow (3pm).
