Josh March will be 'a pain in the backside for defenders', says Harrogate Town manager Simon Weaver of new loan signing

Josh March has joined Harrogate Town on loan from Forest Green Rovers. Picture: Getty Images

The 23-year-striker was unveiled as a Sulphurites player on Tuesday, having made the temporary switch from League Two rivals Forest Green Rovers.

But March, who boasts a prolific goal-scoring record in non-league football, caught Simon Weaver's eye almost immediately upon arriving in Yorkshire ahead of his proposed transfer.

"We had a good look at Josh last week when he came up and trained with us and he did very well. He certainly knows where the back of the net is" the Town manager revealed.

Josh March will wear the number 24 shirt at Harrogate Town. Picture: Matt Kirkham

"He scored more goals than anyone else in the training couple of sessions that he took part in, which is obviously very positive. He looks really sharp

"I think we've got a very good player on our hands. He is a very good finisher and he plays with a bit of an edge about him.

"He's one who can play on the shoulder but is also good enough to come short and get on the ball. He's very busy and will be a pain in the backside for opposition defenders."

March's arrival is the first of three loan moves expected to be finalised this week, with Weaver having made no secret of his desire to add strength and depth to his squad during the January transfer window.

And, given his track record, goals look like they could well be on the cards.

Born in Stourbridge, March began his career with Alvechurch in 2015, becoming the club’s first contracted player in a decade two years later.

He would develop into a vital cog in the machine for the non-league side, scoring 81 goals in 184 matches to help them rise from the Midland Alliance to the Southern Premier.

March then moved onto National League North side Leamington for the 2019/20 campaign, netting 24 times in just 26 appearances before being snapped up by Forest Green Rovers in January of last year.

He scored twice for Rovers before the season was curtailed due to the coronavirus pandemic and his game-time has been limited this term due to injury.

Despite having made just seven appearances in Forest Green colours in 2020/21 - most of those as a substitute - March is however now fully fit and raring to go.

He has been training with his new Town team-mates this week and could make his debut for the club away at Cambridge United on Saturday.