Yeltz know-how crucial to run

The Yeltz were unbeaten in 12 matches after the last-gasp victory over Brackley Town last weekend and had won six out of their last seven.

Brookes puts this resurgence down to the fact that so many of the team have experienced life in the Football League during their careers – several of them in the higher divisions.

The likes of Zema Abbey, Darren Caskey and Paul Devlin have tasted life in the top flight with Norwich, Tottenham and Birmingham and Brookes highlights last Saturday's win over Brackley as an example of how they have helped the club.

"We came from a goal down to lead 2-1 against Brackley, with a few minutes to go," Brookes said.

"In the past, with the young players we had, we would have gone looking for a third goal and probably ended up conceding and dropping points.

"Now with the experience we have, the lads closed the game out by taking the ball into the corners and that's what experience does for you."

"I think eight out of the 11 starters on Saturday have played league football and it shows – they're all very comfortable on the ball"

"Some of the fans have been saying this is the best footballing side Halesowen have had for years and I'm inclined to agree."

Brookes also revealed that manager Morell Maison has added to the squad by bringing in Shane Hill, son of former Luton Town and England midfielder Ricky Hill and Rodney Hicks, a left-sided midfielder formerly of Peterborough United.

Hill scored with his first touch for the club when he converted an 83rd-minute penalty against Brackley, while Hicks was available for selection for the Christmas and New Year programme.

"Morell's got a lot of contacts and he's always looking to bring players in," Brookes said.

"There's healthy competition for places. Just look at our captain Nick Amos – he's been injured and now he can't get back in the side at the moment."