Hitman Josh Sozzo has agreed to sign for Barton Rovers following his release from Bedford Town at the end of last season.

The signing is a coup for Rovers, who will be hoping he can live up to his big name billing and fire them to at least a play-off place in the BGB Southern League Division One Midlands next season.

However, Barton will have to do without the former St Albans City and Hitchin Town striker for the first three games of the season, as he will have to see out the rest of a seven-match suspension carried over from last season.

On his return though he should form a formidable partnership with ex-Luton Town player Liam George, who has also re-signed for next season.
Gary Fitzgerald's men have been handed a tough opening day fixture at Chasetown on Saturday, August 16.

Home games with Marlow and Malvern Town will then follow before the first derby clash of the season with bitter rivals Dunstable Town takes place at Creasey Park on Bank Holiday Monday (August 25).

And Fitzgerald reckons the exciting start has already given his players a buzz, saying: "We've certainly got a tough opening month. But, going on the basis of last year, every game in this league will be a tough one. They all throw up different scenarios and different problems.

"I'm looking forward to the Chasetown game. It's the opening day of a new season, there will be a massive buzz and a big crowd up there. If you're not up for those kind of occasions then you are going to be struggling."

Neighbours Dunstable, meanwhile, who will also have one eye on the clash with Barton, welcome Atherstone Town to Creasey Park on the opening day, before visiting Bury Town on Tuesday, August 19 and Leamington on Saturday, August 23.

The return derby clash with Rovers, at Sharpenhoe Road, is scheduled for Saturday, December 27.