Round-up: Stafford Rangers continue perfect run, Harriers hit five and Hednesford held late

Hednesford Town conceded a stoppage-time equaliser as they were held to a pre-season draw by Connah’s Quay.

Summer signing Jamie Cooke netted his fourth goal of the summer less than five minutes after the restart to put the Pitmen ahead, but Kelvin Davis’ side were denied victory after conceding in the closing stages.

Kidderminster Harriers continued their preparations for the National League season with a comfortable 5-0 win over Stratford Town.

Lewis Walker opened his pre-season account with a brace, while Max Brogan, Levi Amantchi and Seb Thompson were also on target in the emphatic away victory.

Stafford Rangers maintained their unbeaten pre-season record with a comfortable victory over Bedworth United.

Rangers raced into a two-goal lead inside the opening 10 minutes through Scott Bakkor and Kyle Sambor. Bedworth pulled one back before the break, but Wealth Da Silva secured the win for Stafford in the second half.

After battling relegation in recent seasons, Rangers are targeting a promotion push following an ambitious summer rebuild backed by their new American owners.

Matt Hearsey became the latest player to leave the club, joining Staffordshire rivals Chasetown at the weekend. The forward played a key role in helping Rangers avoid relegation last season, scoring six goals in 18 appearances.

Hearsey also scored 66 goals in 100 games for Stafford Town and featured in Europa League qualifying with Welsh side Newtown.

Chasetown continued their pre-season preparations with a 4-0 victory over Eccleshall, with summer signing Matt Funge scoring twice in the first half.

Elsewhere, Northern One West rivals Lichfield City recorded a comfortable 3-1 win over Darlaston Town.

Both sides are preparing for new challenges this season, with Matty Lovatt taking charge at Lichfield following their move into the division, while Darlaston drop into the Midland Premier after relegation last term.

Ex-Walsall youngster Charlie Wragg was on target as Stourbridge suffered defeat against Malvern.

Scott Adey-Linforth’s side trailed at half-time after failing to make the most of their opportunities, but Wragg levelled with a fine individual effort, cutting inside before firing home. However, Malvern responded shortly afterwards to claim victory.

Southern Central Premier Division rivals Halesowen Town surrendered a two-goal lead to draw with National League opposition Tamworth.

Jason Cowley put the Yeltz ahead after just two minutes before a trialist doubled their advantage after the hour mark.

Tamworth fought back, though, scoring twice to earn a draw, including a late equaliser with five minutes remaining.

Meanwhile, a second-half brace from Luke Yates helped Rushall Olympic come from behind to beat Shifnal Town.