Martin McDonald insists he can help Hurlford United challenge for trophies.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper has joined from Irvine Vics, and he replaces the retired Ally Brown.
The former Kilbride Thistle Amateurs shot-stopper admits it feels great to be in a position to say he is challenging for honours.
He said: “It would be brilliant to win the league or the Junior Cup.
“I have never been in a team that has been challenging like that before, so the pressure of that will be tough but great.”
McDonald left amateurs Kilbride before heading to the Vics, but he ended up on the sidelines for 14 months with a knee injury.
Once he recovered he rejoined Vics and pushed in as their No1 last season.
But he admits he didn’t have to think twice about signing on at Blair Park.
He said: “When I got the call from the gaffer here it was a no-brainer.
“I had a few options, but when I came here and met Darren and I saw how well the club is run, it wasn’t a hard choice.
“I have seen them winning trophies, challenging for the league, so I felt like I wanted to be a part of it.”
He added: “It has been brilliant so far, and the boys have been great with me.
“Coming in from Irvine Vics has been tough, as the standard here is a lot better.
“When I came in at first it was daunting, as I came from the amateurs before the Vics, whereas some boys have senior experience.
“But I am hoping I have what it takes to make the step up, nothing against Vics, but it is a big step up.”
He will battle with Chris Murchie for the gloves this season, and McDonald said: “Chris has been brand new, but he has been here for a few years.
“He will obviously want to be No1, but I haven’t come here to be a sub.
“It’s up to the gaffer, and I just hope that he likes me – then I’ll have a chance.”
