MANAGER Rob Smith says Halesowen Town's supporters will be rewarded for their patience once his new-look side finally clicks.

The new boss at the Grove is still waiting for his first win after last Saturday's proposed clash at Lowestoft fell victim to a waterlogged pitch.

The Yeltz head into the busy festive period knowing a string of quick-fire wins could prove vital in their quest to beat the drop.

They were set to welcome rivals Stourbridge on Boxing Day before this Saturday's home clash with Banbury. They will be followed by a trip to the Trico Stadium to face Redditch United on New Year's Day.

However, Smith has urged fans to stay patient while his players start to gel.

He said: "It's a massive time for us because a few quick wins can change everything.

"The situation we're in means every game is big for us but any team that can put a run of three games together will be out of it.

"The fans have been really patient with us so far because it hasn't quick clicked with so many new players coming in.

"Once it has all settled down I really believe we'll put a run of games together.

"I'd just plea with the fans to stay patient at the moment while we're in this transition period.

"It' all about making sure we have the right personnel and we have been working hard on that. Once they get to know the current squad we'll soon be winning games, it's just going to take a little time.

"We have a bit of a free hit on Boxing Day because no one is expecting us to win."

On Saturday's postponement, he added: "We travelled down the night before so it was disappointing that the game was off, but these things happen.

"It's a shame because the players were really ready for it."

Jack Kelly and Callum Mendez-Jones were rated as 50/50 for the Stourbridge game while Lee Hughes and Jack Rea are available again after back problems.