NEW signing Mackenzie Faulkner wants to be contributing to a gritty Northwich Victoria side that are shooting for promotion in 2024/25.

The central defender or right-back assisted Vics’ Midland Football League Premier Division rivals Congleton Town to promotion last season, featuring in 33 games.

And now all of that experience will be at hand for Vics.

He says every team goes into the season wanting promotion, and adds that Vics should be no different.

“We know what we want as a team and what we want as a group and we know what we can achieve,” said Faulkner, who has also spent time with Hanley and Leek.

“But we’re the only ones who can do that, with the backroom staff, and obviously the players who get on the pitch.

“It’s about us performing every week, not just doing it one week and forgetting about the next couple.

“It’s about grinding away and getting those victories where ultimately it’s a 1-0 away victory or it’s three points when you don’t necessarily deserve it but it’s about getting that job done and that’s what I’m most looking forward to for the season ahead.”

Vics played in two friendly matches on Saturday.

The noon kick-off against their Barton Stadium landlords Winsford United featured many of their under 21s players in a 1-0 loss.

Three hours later Vics hosted Thackley AFC and drew 1-1 thanks to a late equaliser from Anton Smith.

Vics are away to Lostock Gralam tonight, kick-off 7pm, visit Runcorn Town tomorrow, kick-off 7.45pm and then go to Darwen on Saturday, kick-off 3pm.