Brookes: Move north will benefit us (From Halesowen News)

Brookes: Move north will benefit us

in Sport

Halesowen Town’s switch to the Northern League will bring a huge financial boost, according to chairman Colin Brookes.

The FA look set to grant the Yeltz their desired move to the Northern League Division One South, following the release of next season’s proposed league structure last week.

Club officials believe the switch will cut in half the estimated 4,500 miles which were travelled to away games in the Southern League South and West last term.

Brookes hinted the saved cash could be used to help manager Shaun Cunnington in his hunt for players.

He said: “Even if we can’t add the money into the playing budget, the fact we are no longer have such distances to travel will make it easier to attract players.

“There are a number of derbies for us to play against the likes of Sutton Coldfield and Chasetown and we’ll be renewing a few old rivalries too.

“All-in-all, it’s a good move for us and it’s given everyone at the club a lift.”

Brookes pointed to the example of Rushall, who gained promotion to the Northern Premier League just two years after switching from the Southern.

He said: “I know Rushall appealed when they were moved north as they didn’t want it at the time.

“I speak to people there now who say it was the best thing which ever happened to them.

“It’s a well organised league and I think for a club like us it will prove a really good move.”

The Yeltz have already announced a number of pre-season friendlies, with the first one taking place against Redditch United at Great Wyrley FC on Saturday July 14.

Halesowen travel to Bromsgrove Sporting on July 17 before playing host to Solihull Moors at the Grove on July 21.

Cunnington returns to his old stomping ground on Tuesday July 24 when the Yeltz visit Alvechurch. They then visit Wolverhampton Casuals on Saturday July 28 before hosting rivals Stourbridge at the Grove on August 11.

Meanwhile, Stourbridge have emerged as suitors for Yeltz striker Ben Haseley.

Boss Cunnnington is hoping the hitman, who scored 10 goals after joining from Heath Hayes in January, will stay at the Grove but the Glassboys have also made him an offer.

Stafford Rangers, Rushall Olympic and Hednesford Town are also thought to be keen.