Gary Hayward wants Buxton to 'hit the ground running' as they kick off league and cup campaigns

Gibraltar international Reece Styche scored twice for the Bucks against Chester. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

The Bucks will play their first competitive match since last season's Northern Premier League campaign was declared null and void on Saturday.

Following a busy closed season, in which a number of impressive-looking signings have been made, Radcliffe will visit the Tarmac Silverlands Stadium on Saturday.

And manager Hayward wants his new-look squad to give the fans a reason to feel proud... as well as fulfilling their potential and picking up the points.

"To be honest, if my side's right and on it they'll win every game," said the Bucks boss.

"I won't settle for second best. Like I've said in previous interviews, I want to hit the ground running.

"The fans deserve a good season. As long as we're competitive and work hard, that's all we can ask.

"The chairman (David Hopkins) has done everything he can for us, so let's hope we hit the ground running and get what we're all striving for."

Hayward, however, will not be taking Radcliffe lightly.

"I know Lee Fowler's manager, and I know Lee from Nuneaton when he was assistant manager," Hayward continued.

"I think they're well organised, Lee will get them organised. They'll be fit, they'll be game. It'll be a tough game for us.

"It's not easy for us but we've got to play them sometime, so why not first game?

"We'll give it our best shot and hopefully get the points."

Buxton go into Saturday's fixture (KO 3pm) on the back of a friendly victory against National League North opposition.

Reece Styche scored a brace and James Hurst found the net as the Bucks beat Chester 3-2 in Derbyshire on Saturday.

The result made it back-to-back wins over higher-level opposition following a 3-1 victory over Chorley last Tuesday evening.

Buxton have been drawn at home to NPL South East Division Belper Town in the FA Cup's first qualifying round, which will be played on Tuesday evening (KO 7.45pm).

The Nailers booked their place in the hat following a 1-0 win at league rivals Sutton Coldfield.