POOLE Town’s rising star Ollie Balmer has been rewarded for his exploits with his first contract.

The 18-year-old striker has penned an initial 12-month deal with the National South outfit.

Balmer has progressed through the ranks at the Black Gold Stadium and was a key figure in Poole’s run to the second round of the FA Youth Cup last season.

He netted the opening goal in Dolphins’ pre-season friendly against Portsmouth a fortnight ago and becomes the latest member of Tom Killick’s squad to commit to the club.

Balmer is again expected to feature when Poole pit themselves against Exeter City at the Black Gold Stadium tonight (7.30pm).

Dolphins have been boosted by the news that Grecians boss Paul Tisdale has confirmed he will bring his first-team squad to Dorset.

The fixture has been upgraded having originally been listed as Exeter under-21s with a number of players with League Two experience set to play.

Poole chairman Chris Reeves told the Daily Echo: “We are absolutely chuffed to bits that Ollie has signed his first contract with the club.

“He has been a prolific goalscorer through the age groups and is a player we have high hopes for. Signing his contract is testament to the strength of the youth set-up at the club.”

Bashley, beaten 2-0 by Winchester City in the Dave Jose Memorial Cup on Saturday, continued their warm-up campaign with a visit from Wimborne Town (7.45pm).

New signings Mike Edgar, Jack Hannam, Harry Cooper and Conor Whitely are all expected to feature. Hugh Dathan and Dan Munday were on target in a 2-0 win over Downton last week.

Also tonight, Hamworthy United entertain Christchurch (7.45pm) and Ringwood Town host Lymington Town (7.45pm).