TOM Bailey is not daunted by the prospect of matching Matthew Beadle’s goal-scoring feats for 1874 Northwich, the former Glossop North End forward has revealed.

He joined the North West Counties League side this summer, and will be tasked with leading an attack shorn of last season’s leading marksman following his move to Colne.

“That’s why I’m here – to do what he did,” said the 25-year-old.

“I’ve set myself a target of scoring 30 goals and if I play week in, week out in my preferred position then I think I can reach it.”

He was on target 27 times in all competitions when Glossop were promoted as champions two years ago.

His tally was the same at the end of the previous campaign too.

After making only 17 starts for the Hillmen in the Northern Premier League last term, Bailey says the decision to drop down a level was not a difficult one.

He added: “I spoke to [1874 Northwich manager] Ian Street last summer, but I wanted to test myself a step higher.

“We were in contact again when I decided to leave; he told me what he wants to achieve this season, and who else he planned to sign.

“1874 are a club with a big following for this level, and that makes it an opportunity I didn’t want to pass up on.

“It gives a player an incentive to perform when there’s a bigger audience, and I’ve had a glimpse of that with the friendlies we’ve played.

“As well as the past few years have gone, they’ve been interrupted by injuries or by playing at times in a different role.

“I’m here to play consistently in a side that has a winning mentality – it’s noticeable how strong that is already.”

Like Bailey, midfielder Eddie Moran and full back Matt Russell have arrived at Barton Stadium in the close season.

Along with goalkeeper Greg Hall, recruited last December, and striker Sam Hind – who spent last term on loan at Abbey Hey – they were title-winners at Glossop.

“There are a few things that can give you the edge,” said the front man.

“We had guys who knew how to grind out a result, especially against opponents at the bottom of the table.

“Competition for places is important too; having 16 or 17 decent lads means you can bring people off the bench that you have faith in, and the team’s quality is the same.

“The early signs are we have that here, which is a good thing.”

1874 host Cefn Druids – from the Welsh Premier League – in their final friendly this weekend, kick off 2.30pm.