BACUP BOROUGH have signed strike duo Julian Dowe and Shaun Cryer.

Former Rochdale and Colne striker Dowe, 26, has been playing for Oldham Town since returning to the country from a spell in Latvia.

And Cryer, 20, signs from Castleton Gabriels.

"These are two excellent signings," said manager Brent Peters, whose side are at home to Cheadle Town tomorrow. "Dowe is quality and I have watched Cryer a few times this season, he knows where the net is and leads the line well.

"These players are just what we have been looking for and I would be daft not to consider starting them tomorrow against Cheadle." Peters - who this week controversially sacked captain Damian Moran - hopes the pair can boost Borough's flagging fortunes up front.

"We haven't been ruthless enough in front of goal. We haven't been killing teams off. The lads up front have had more than their fair share of chances but haven't been putting them away."

Jason Lanns, who is carrying a knock on his shin, and Nicky Taylor could make way for the pair.

"Jason picked up a bad injury against Nelson but played last week at Squires Gate because we didn't have strength in depth," said Peters. "Nicky Taylor hasn't been firing on all cylinders although he works very hard and Stuart Farnell hasn't been as sharp as he would have liked since his ankle injury."

Bacup are currently ninth from bottom of the Second Division but Peters, who wants to see his side pushing for promotion this season, is not concerned.

"If we won our games in hand we would be up there with Formby in second place," said Peters, whose side are at home tomorrow.

Defender Moran has been suspended for 14 days for persistent misconduct after which his contract will be terminated.

It is thought that the suspension stems from arguments Moran has had with teammates and management on and off the pitch.

Bacup could still demand a fee for the player if he signs to another club.