PAUL Smith is hoping Bromsgrove Sporting take full advantage of a series of games against teams near the bottom half of the Midlands Football League Division One.

The Rouslers defeated Heather St John’s 2-1 on Saturday and thrashed Pelsall Villa on Tuesday night.

They complete a hat-trick of matches against struggling sides when they entertain Alvis Sporting on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

Before the Villa clash, Sporting were eighth in the table with five wins and three defeats so far this season.

They also have games in hand on top four sides Littleton, Uttoxeter, Boldmere, Highgate, Coventry Sphinx and Bolehall.

Smith said: “We’re going in the right direction and I am hoping that by the end of the Alvis game we’ll have nine points (from three games).

“That will give us some momentum but I think we’re doing quite well.

“The league is going to be close, there are quite a few sides who fancy their chances this season, so the points total at the end of the season will be smaller.”

Goals for Reece Hewitt and Gary Hay ensured Sporting came from a goal down to beat Heather 2-1 at the weekend, a result which saw them bounce back from defeat to Uttoxeter last week.

He added: “I knew it would be a tough game but we saw it through and made sure we won.”

Meanwhile, Smith has bolstered his attacking options with two new signings.

Former Bromsgrove Rovers wideman Danny Lennon joined last week and debuted on Saturday but sustained a hamstring injury.

Rookie striker Sean Brain has also arrived from Pershore Town. The 19-year-old was a product of Stratford’s youth team system and scored for Pershore against Studley on Saturday.

Smith said: “Danny is another experienced player from a higher level so he’s a good addition.

“Sean is raw but has a lot of potential and I believe he can go a long way.”

Sporting are set to be without Hay, who is on holiday.