THE pre-season friendlies will get progressively harder for Stourport Swifts before their league opener at Swindon Supermarine next month.

Alliance sides Halesowen Harriers, Boldmere and Stourbridge will provide the lower-graded opposition.

Then Swifts face Conference club Telford and strong Dr Martens Premier clubs in Worcester City and Halesowen Town.

Boss Tim Langford admitted: "If we can get good results and performances from the last three games, it gives you a bit of confidence going into the season.

"We wanted to start with the games against Alliance teams and then build up. All these games will have a competitive edge.

"I wasn't keen on playing any big Midlands clubs, like Wolves or Villa, because they tend to send youth teamers.

"You then spend most of the time chasing the ball which will benefit fitness but is not constructive.

"We will have time on the ball in all the friendlies we have arranged."