ALVECHURCH are hoping to follow the signing of midfielder Simon Williams by adding experienced keeper Ryan Price to their ranks.
Williams, who has joined from Lye Town, enjoyed an impressive debut as the Churchmen recorded an excellent 2-1 friendly win against Halesowen Town on Tuesday.
However, with both Paul Evans and summer signing Charlie Price injured, Church boss Ian Long wants ex-Rushall Olympic, Stafford Rangers and Chasetown keeper Ryan Price to help fill the gap.
Charlie Price has been told to rest for three weeks with a hip injury, although Evans, who has not played in pre-season due to a hamstring injury, should be fit for the start of the season.
Ryan Price’s work commitments will limit his regular availability but he is set to signs forms and feature when Church face Sutton Coldfield Town tomorrow (Saturday) at Lye Meadow.
“Hopefully Ryan will get some minutes against Sutton and then at home to Stourbridge on Monday,” said Long.
Williams, meanwhile, made a positive start to his Church career as a deflected free kick from Jordan Nadat and a Connor Deards strike sealed victory over Halesowen.
“Simon can play central or right side and he’s a hard-working, competitive player, with good energy levels,” said Long.
“He’s a bit like Chris Field and, having lost Chris, he will be a good replacement. We were really pleased with his debut.”
Long has been equally satisfied with youth team graduate Brogan Halpin. He was man of the match at Blackpool side Squires Gate in a 2-2 draw on Saturday and produced another eye-catching show on Tuesday against the Yeltz to suggest the midfielder will very much be in first team contention.
“We’ve got big hopes of Brogan,” said Long. “He needs to knuckle down in training – that’s the step up from youth football.
“If he does knuckle down there’s no reason he can’t be pushing for a regular spot.”
The draw at Squires Gate – with Josh March and Andy Nicol netting for Church – brought a penalty shoot-out, which Church won 4-1.
After their dismal spot-kick record last season and already missing two penalties in pre-season, Long hopes that will ease the burden on his penalty-takers.
