GARY Hackett says Stourbridge's first half of the season has shown there is no need to fear anyone in the Northern Premier.

The Glassboys' boss feels the return of key players from injury and the continued improvement of the Amblecote outfit bodes well for a promotion push in the new year.

They showed their intent to be at the top end of the league when beating FC United of Manchester at the War Memorial Ground last Saturday.

First half goals from Kayelden Brown and defender-come-striker Kristian Ramsey-Dickson saw the home side showcase their threat on the break.

A determined defensive display in the second period, especially from the new centre half pairing of Paul McCone and Exodus Geohaghon, meant Hackett's men took the spoils.

However, even though the Glassboys failed to back up the win when losing 2-0 to fifth-placed Barwell on Tuesday night, Hackett is sure there is plenty more to come.

He said: "The one thing that is clear is that we have no need to fear anyone in this league. To get the win against Manchester was great and showed the potential we have.

"We were below par against Barwell and I would have like to have freshened it up if I'd have had a few more options available to me.

"We will continue to get strong, especially when a few players return."

Stour have been boosted by the return to full fitness of Leon Broadhurst and Will Richards ahead of this Saturday's trip to third-placed Buxton.

Star striker Luke Benbow is also moving closer to first team action.

"Buxton is another tough test for us," added Hackett. "They have had a healthy start to the season and we need to bounce back from the Barwell result."

In Benbow's absence, Hackett was keen to praise the impact of Kristian Ramsey-Dickson, who scored against FC United after being moved from his more familiar defensive role, and youngster Josh Morgan-Parker.

"Kristian has good pace and power and will now be challenging to stake a claim up front," he said. "Josh has real potential and is getting better with each game. He is now starting to show that."