BROMSGROVE Sporting manager Paul Smith believes his squad is better equipped than last season to push for promotion in the Midlands Division One.

The Rouslers boss finalised his playing staff for the 2015-16 campaign with the news that striker Chris Conway and James McKeon have committed to the club.

He was also set to decide this week whether Jake Bedford or Shaun Edwards would be number one.

"I wanted to build a than which I think is better than last season and I am confident we have done that," said Smith.

"The only thing I have to do is choose between two very good goalkeepers in Shaun and Jake.

"One of them will be my first choice and it is up to the other if they want to stay and fight for a starting spot."

Sporting were given a good work out in their 1-0 loss to Cradley in a one-sided friendly clash.

Sean Brain wasted a handful of good chances, while Luke Corbett hit the woodwork with a well-struck free-kick.

Sporting were set to play Stratford Town at home last night in a high profile pre-season game, before a clash at West Didsbury and Chorlton.

Smith added: "Cradley are a very strong side and they didn't make it easy for us, so it was a good workout.

"We lost but we had enough chances to comfortably win the game and Sean Brain took some ribbing for missing four good chances he would normally put away.

"But with Stratford this week, things are really stepping up."

The August fixtures for Division One have also been revealed, with Sporting starting the season at home to Southam on August 8, followed by a trip to Pelsall on August 11.

After a trip to Gornal in the FA Cup on August 15, Bromsgrove entertain Racing Club Warwick, then go to Stafford Town on August 22 and welcome Littleton to the Victoria Ground on August 25.

They end the month in the league at Pilkington XXX.

Smith commented: "This is an opening month we can really get our teeth into, we've avoided all the teams tipped to do well so hopefully we can build up some momentum."