Sizzling hot goalscorer Bacon signs for Alfreton

Bacon was in sizzling form last season for Bottesford as they finished eighth in the Northern Counties East League Premier Division.

And that prompted many suitors from further up the football pyramid but Alfreton have beaten them to the punch by capturing their man.

Bacon has penned a one-year deal at the Impact Arena.

Reds boss Billy Heath said: “Declan is a lad whose come from local football and Bottesford gave him a chance last season. He also works at Scunthorpe United in their futsal programme.

“He’s come from the lower leagues and I knew him last year and he scored 45 goals last season which definitely turned heads. There were a few clubs also interested in him but Dec chose us which was great.

“He is eager to get going, it’s a big challenge for him to make the step up from the Northern Counties League but it’s a challenge he is excited for. It’s a challenge for all the players too, it will be a tough season, a long campaign with some quality teams in the league this year; but we’ve built a side to challenge.

“Dec coming in gives us another attacking option, he is tremendously fit, lots of energy, makes good runs in behind and plays off the front man. We are delighted to have him.”

Heath has also tied down two of last season’s stand-out performers in defender Luke Shiels and midfielder Tom Platt.

Meanwhile the 2018/19 National League North fixtures will be announced on 4th July and the season will start 4th August.

Shiels signed a two-year deal at the start of last season and made 42 appearances for the Reds, scoring five goals, in 2017/18.

Heath said: “Shielsy is a massive player and he had another year to run on his contract so we are delighted to have him on board for this season.

“He also played a big part last season and I’ve known him a long time now, I know how he plays and he is a good centre half in this league. A solid player; reads the game well.

“Shielsy wanted to stay with us from minute one when we first came in. So we were pleased that he wanted to stay and he can’t wait for the season to start.”

While Platt, who made 41 appearances last time out and scored six goals, has penned a new one-year deal to remain at the Impact Arena.

“We are delighted to have Platty with us for the upcoming season,” added Heath. “We are pleased to have sorted a new deal with him and he played a big part in the team last season.

“We watched him several times last campaign and he stood out and always played well. He’s an excellent passer of the ball, controls the midfield well, composed and scores some good goals.

“We were pleased to keep him and we wanted to make sure he stayed with us. He is great to have around in the dressing room and it’s fantastic to have him stay with us at Alfreton.”