The lethal frontman—and brother of First Team Manager Lee Duckworth—officially puts pen to paper to inject some serious firepower and high-level experience into the Vics’ frontline ahead of the new campaign.

Non-League Pedigree
Joe arrives at the club with a proven track record of finding the back of the net and a wealth of experience playing higher up the non-league pyramid. His impressive résumé features stellar goalscoring stints across some of the region's most established clubs:

Winsford United: A standout 2021/22 campaign saw him net an incredible 17 goals in just 37 appearances.
FC United of Manchester: Proved his clinical edge higher up the ladder, scoring 4 goals in 13 matches.
Bury: Hit the ground running during his time there, averaging nearly a goal every other game with 3 goals in 8 matches.
Witton Albion: A proven, dependable force over a sustained period, racking up 38 goals in 82 appearances.
Stalybridge Celtic: Showed his consistency against tough opposition, bagging 10 goals in 40 appearances.

Gaffer's Reaction: "A Statement Signing"
First Team Manager Lee Duckworth couldn't hide his delight at securing the striker's signature, labelling it a massive coup for the club moving forward.

"When people talk about statement signings they don’t come much bigger," Lee said.

"We knew we were losing a couple of players in forward areas to retirement and pastures new so it was on my radar early. I’d tried to get Joe to come before so when he finally agreed it was a fantastic opportunity to bring him to the club. Mike Green and Edgy helped behind the scenes no end to secure Joe, so both deserve a special mention.

"He’s been scoring goals at non league level since he was 16 and shows the club intends to continue to build on the foundations of last season. A player that could comfortably have signed somewhere two leagues higher! He can operate with quality in a number of positions, as well as having that desire to get goals. I’m sure he will quickly be a fans favourite and talisman.

"He captained in the league above and scored a lot of goals for Witton so it’s a real coup to bring him in so he can get himself enjoying his football again in the right frame of mind. I’m excited to see him in green."

A Major Statement of Intent
Bringing in a striker of Joe's calibre is a massive coup for the Trickies. Known for his aerial presence, intelligent hold-up play, and clinical finishing, he adds a dynamic new dimension to the Vics' attacking options.

While the family connection to gaffer Lee Duckworth adds a brilliant local storyline to the signing, make no mistake: Joe has been brought in strictly for the quality, leadership, and goals he guarantees on the pitch.

"Joe is a proven winner and a natural goal scorer who knows exactly what it takes to perform at a higher level," the club stated. "His experience will be invaluable to the lads in the dressing room, and we know the Vics faithful are going to love watching his work rate and passion on the pitch."

Please join us in giving a massive, warm welcome to Joe!

Welcome to the Trickies, Joe!

Keep your eyes peeled on our official social media channels and website for exclusive reaction and interview content with our newest signing.