BOSS Ollie Cherrett has described as “a massive coup” Merley’s swoop for the Dorset Premier League’s hottest property Luke Stone from title rivals Hamworthy Recreation.

Stone struck 40 goals for Rec last season and has continued where he left off with 16 in 10 DPL matches so far this campaign.

And despite seeing his table-topping side score more goals than anyone else in the division – 44 in 13 games – Cherrett admitted the chance to sign Stone had been too good to turn down.

Cherrett told the Daily Echo: “Chris Hart (assistant manager) and I identified that we needed a goal scorer to give us a complete squad.

“We have been creating a lot of chances and Luke's record speaks for itself so we decided to put in a seven-day approach. We met him on Saturday and it was clear he hadn't been enjoying his football this season.

“He was excited by the challenge and wanted to join us. It is a massive coup and we’re looking forward to a successful season.”

Meanwhile, new Blandford United manager Bradley Asagba suffered a torrid first match in charge with a 4-0 defeat at home to Parley Sports.

In the only league game of the weekend, the visitors secured victory through goals from Tobias Holmes (2), Ally Williams and Matt Newbery.

In the League Cup, holders Hamworthy Recreation beat 10-man Westland Sports 2-1 after extra-time.

Mere Town beat Poole Borough 6-1, while Hamworthy United reserves won 4-0 at Cranborne. Sturminster Marshall lost 3-2 to Shaftesbury after extra-time.