CARL Macauley has said the signing of Rob Hopley ends a chase for the striker’s signature that has lasted years.

The front man, who lives in Winsford, completed a move to Witton on Wednesday following his departure from higher-ranked Colwyn Bay.

However he was denied by the weather from making his Albion debut at the weekend when their scheduled meeting with Scarborough Athletic was postponed.

“He’s knocked me back three times!” revealed Macauley.

“He loved his time at Colwyn Bay, and wanted to stay loyal to them in the past.

“I’m glad to get him, as he’s a player I’ve admired for a long time.”

Hopley, now 30, netted against Albion for Winsford United in a Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup tie back in 2006 – the same season he helped Blues win the title in the North West Counties League’s second tier.

From there he joined Leek Town before a switch to north Wales eight years ago.

A brief stay with Chester, where he made history as the first player to score a goal for the reformed club in August 2010, is the only interruption.

Macauley said: “Rob has plenty of experience having played at a higher level than we’re competing at now.

“Going forward he’ll lead the attack for us, and will create goals as well as getting on the end of things himself.”

The former Marine boss is hopeful his new recruit can relieve attacking midfielder Danny Andrews, on target 13 times in all competitions this term, from carrying Witton’s goal-scoring burden alone.

He added: “There are plenty of options now with Alex [Titchiner], Jamie Matthews and Alex Salmon.

“Jamie Menagh has made an impact too, and it’s good for a manager to have that competition for places.”

Witton return to action at high-flying Clitheroe next Saturday, when their target will be to record back-to-back league wins for the first time since the opening week of the season.