PICKERING Town manager Paul Marshall is set to make a decision on the future of former York City striker Ben Hirst next week.

Hirst, 18, has been training with the Pikes following his release by the Minstermen and scored twice in a friendly last week against Tadcaster Albion.

He was due to be given another opportunity to impress last night against Pocklington Town before completing his trial against Scarborough Athletic next Tuesday night.

Marshall said: "He has done well and it seems like he has got the excitement back for the game that he lost at York.

"He's still young and if we feel he can add something to the squad this season, we will look to keep him. But I do think he could be a good impact player."

Hirst made his debut in the Football League two years ago and played five times for York under former manager Nigel Worthington.

He struggled for first-team opportunities in the wake of Worthington's departure, however, and spent a period on loan at Scarborough Athletic last season.

Commenting on his performance against Tadcaster, Marshall said: "It was very pleasing.

"It was his first game for us and he scored twice in 30 minutes, hitting one goal that was a real 'worldy'!"

Although Pickering lost 4-3 to last season's Toolstation Northern Counties East League champions, Marshall said there were many positives to come out of the game.

The Town manager is now looking to develop a team shape that best suits his players over the remaining pre-season games.

The new season's fixtures are due to be released this afternoon by the Northern Counties East League.