BROMSGROVE Sporting boss Paul Smith told his players a few home truths this week following a punishing training regime in the wake of their woeful 1-1 draw with Stafford Town.

The plan worked as treat as Sporting overwhelmed Heath Hayes 4-0 to get their Midland League promotion plans back on track.

Now Sporting turn their attentions to FA Vase glory with a trip to league rivals Nuneaton Griff on Saturday where a place in the last 32 awaits the winners.

Smith said: "We treated the players like it was pre-season again and ran the legs off them in training.

"As a result, we started the game against Heath Hayes like a train and went 3-0 up by half time - but it could have easily been five or six.

"We worked our socks off and Heath Hayes looked a beaten side after just half an hour. We were stronger in every department. Jason Cowley in particular was exceptional. He's the hardest working striker I've ever known and his work-rate was infectious."

Smith brought in former Alvechurch and Studley striker Andy Nicol for his debut following the departure of Tony Clarke to Northern Premier League side Hednesford Town.

Busy Smith has also snapped up former Nuneaton Town marksman Luke Shorthouse who should make his debut against Griff - one of his former clubs.

Smith said: "Luke was full time with Nuneaton Town, but it didn't work out and they cancelled his contract. He's since been playing for Coleshill Town and is a great capture for Sporting."

However Smith will be missing Chris Conway who has picked up a lengthy three month ban following a Sunday morning football incident.

Smith is also without Tom Craine after picking up a red card at Heath Hayes while Sean Brain is set to sign for Midlands League rivals Littletons.

Sporting will be running a number of supporters coaches to Nuneaton Griff and anyone interested is asked to contact the club.