BOSS Rob Smith says the new-found togetherness in his squad will help get Halesowen Town back on track.

The Yeltz remained in the Southern League Central relegation places after a 3-1 loss at home to Coalville Town last Saturday.

Lee Hughes pulled a goal back in a much-improved second half but it was the first half damage that cost the hosts.

They now head to play-off chasing Alvechurch this Saturday as they chase a big three points.

Smith believes his players have become a closer unit in recent week as they prepare to battle their way to safety.

He said: "We are putting any negatives behind us now and are looking for that big win that could change things. We know that's what we need and we know how hard we need to work.

"We expected those wins to come a lot sooner than they have but that is probably down to the amount of new players that we have brought in.

"The players are spending much more time together now, both on and off the pitch, and I can really sense that togetherness now. Now we have that, hopefully wins should follow."

That togetherness was highlighted further as Jack Kelly opted to stay at the Grove despite an approach from Redditch United.

Talented Harriers wing-back Joel Taylor also returned for a second loan stint.

Smith added: "Jack Kelly could have taken the easy option and got out and gone to Redditch but he loves the club and chose to stay.

"That's a massive boost now because we need everyone here who is willing to fight.

"Joel coming back is also great news because he is one of our best attacking threats and is a really important player for us."

On the Coalville defeat, Smith said: "I actually thought for 20 minutes we played quite well and created a few good chances, including a glaring one for Lee Hughes.

"But, after we conceded one goal, we just capitulated. It was like watching a car crash in front of my eyes and is symptomatic of where we are.

"As soon as we concede one we go under and were lucky to get in only three down.

"That can't happen and we have had long chats about it and clear-the-air talks.

"The second half was much better and much closer to what we are looking for and we now need to try and build on that and carry it forward this week."

Aaron Gilpin remains the only long-term absentee ahead of the trip to Church but Callum Coyle could be back in contention.