PAUL Bowyer has urged his players to follow Sam Hare’s example and share some of the goal-scoring burden during 1874 Northwich’s remaining games this season.

The midfielder was on target in last Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Bootle, netting for the fourth time this term.

It prompted the interim co-manager to call on others to copy the 25-year-old, particularly with Tom Bailey unavailable for this weekend’s trip to Abbey Hey.

“If you look down the list, as I have, then we’ve relied heavily on three guys – Tom Bailey, Scott McGowan and Sam Hind – to score the bulk of our goals,” said Bowyer.

“It’s something we’ve looked to improve on, and Sam’s chipped in with a couple.

“We definitely have the capability to score goals from other areas of the pitch, and we’re looking for others to weigh in with their share.”

Before Hare’s strike last weekend, now-departed Rick Bailey and Jason Carey were 1874’s fourth-highest scorers this term with three goals.

Bowyer told the Guardian that a change in approach, with Northwich attempting to take on a more offensive outlook, should help.

He added: “That’s the biggest adjustment we’ve asked the players to make, to take a more attacking mentality onto the field.

“Hopefully our supporters have noticed we’re sending more crosses into the box and taking more shots.

“We’ve scored 10 goals in the past four games, which is an improvement.

“I’m happy with how the lads have responded to what we’ve asked of them; it’s been positive, and I sense they’re enjoying their football.”

He said the team’s target is to finish inside the North West Counties League Premier Division’s top four if possible, which would secure later entry to next season’s FA Vase.

They also hope to defend the Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup by beating Northwich Victoria.

Bowyer said: “Our focus is on putting together a string of good performances.

“But it’s a bonus, considering our position in the table, to have a cup final that will keep us focused between now and the end of the season.

“It should stop things petering out.

“We’ve seen previously that a strong finish to the campaign can send everybody into the summer break feeling optimistic and looking forward to football returning again.

“Whatever happens, it’s important we achieve that.”

Kick off tomorrow is 3pm.