HEREFORD can go into their Midlands One West season with optimism after completing their five-game build-up unbeaten.

Their pre-season wound up with a 28-12 win over MOnmouth, featuring tries by Gareth Jones, Ben Osbourne, Nat Thomas and Perry Pudge.

Morgan Goodall added three conversions and Dean Powell, one.

The Wyesiders know that there is work to be done if skipper Ali McColl is to be able to lead the side to promotion.

"The backs will score plenty of tries if they are provided with good possession," said spokesman Robin Davies.

"The back row of the pack will be strong and the tight forwards will compete, but we shall be lacking in height and weight and will need to work hard in every game.

Hereford, who finished third last season, open their campaign on Saturday with a visit to Stoke, who were fourth in the 2013-4 campaign.