MALVERN Town have lined up four friendlies as they prepare to launch an assault on the West Midlands Football League Premier Division title.

The Langland Stadium side finished 13th in their first season back in the competition and manager Les Jones has his sights set on challenging for honours in 2012-13.

Malvern’s warm-up programme starts at home to Ledbury Town on Saturday, July 21 (3pm), before they host Evesham United on Tuesday, July 24 (7.45pm).

Droitwich Spa visit on Saturday, July 28 (1pm), with Blue Square Bet North outfit Gloucester City then in town on Wednesday, August 8 (7.45pm).

Jones, who has appointed striker Lee Hooper to his coaching team, said: “The first team finished a creditable mid-table and were only penalty shoot-outs away from two cup finals.

“I am convinced the current squad, with a couple of additions, will be pushing for the top of the table next season.”

The reserves, managed by Paul Pallett in West Midlands League Division Two, will have three friendlies.

First up is Droitwich Spa Reserves at home, which follows the first-team fixture on July 28 (3pm), before trips to Welland on Thursday, August 2 (6.45pm), and Cheltenham Saracens on Monday, August 6 (7.30pm).

Jones added: “In all the time I have been involved with the club, this is the first season the first and reserve teams have worked in total unison — some 20 players appearing for both sides.

“This will now be extended to incorporate the youth team.”

At Malvern’s presentation evening, Dave Reynolds was named player-ofthe- year, Joe Endacott the players’ player and Joe Leighton received the manager’s merit award.

For the reserves, Reece King was player-of-the-year, James Argent players’ player and Paul Amott got the manager’s merit.

Adrian Platt will take over as youth team manager after Chris Smith stepped down due to work commitments.

Platt will be assisted by Derek Doyle and Dave Oakey.