FOREST Green boss David Hockaday has won the race to land striking sensation Matty Taylor.

Hockaday fought off fierce competition to snap up the former Oxford United and North Leigh hit man on a two-year deal.

Taylor, 21, is regarded as one of the hottest prospects outside the Blue Square Premier after smashing 40 goals for Evo-Stik Southern League Division One South & West outfit North Leigh last season.

Taylor had previously been on trial with Cheltenham Town and turned down fellow Blue Square Premier side Newport County in favour of Forest Green.

"Matty comes from a pro background and is different to what we have already got," said Hockaday.

" He has good movement - is sharp in the box - and is a welcome addition to the squad."

A confident Taylor is adamant he can continue his phenomenal scoring record in Blue Square Premier in a similar fashion to the way Reece Styche has after signing from non-league minnows Chasetown.

"I am fox in the box type of player and always back myself to score goals.

"I am delighted to sign for a club who are moving in the right direction."