STEVE Lloyd hopes the signing of Patrick Hamid will help sharpen an attack that was blunted by Squires Gate during a goalless stalemate last weekend.

The forward switched last Friday from North West Counties League Premier Division rivals Cammell Laird.

“He’s an honest lad who offers something different to what we have,” said the Villagers’ boss.

“It’s always healthy to have competition for places, and he’ll do that for us.”

Barnton were better before the break against Gate, and Chris Smith’s effort was smuggled off the line by Jake Higham after Ryan Malone’s initial attempt struck an upright.

Jonny Jones teed up Jason McShane, but his shot was blocked by a recovering Paul Alexander.

The visitors’ new recruit, Charlie Waters, prompted goalkeeper Matthew Conkie to save in the second period before Seydou Bamba headed over when well-placed late on.

Lloyd added: “Defensively we were very good again, but offensively we lacked the dynamism we aim for.

“That’s where we’ll look to improve this weekend.

“Despite not being at our best, we collected a point and every one is important at this stage.”

A trip to Barnoldswick awaits this Saturday, kick off 3pm.

Wide men Jonny Jones and Josh Crofts have both been ruled out by knee injuries.

Their places in the squad will be taken by Hamid and Jordan Stafford.

Barnton start the game four points, and a single place, better off than their hosts, who have failed to win any of their matches since the turn of the year.

However Gareth Hargreaves’ late goal did earn a 1-1 draw at Congleton last time out.