Boss Sandy moves quickly to land Dawson after skipper Duffy’s surprise departure
AFC Rushden & Diamonds moved quickly to fill the gap left by Jake Duffy’s surprise departure last week.
After playing just one league game, the Diamonds skipper was expected to sign for Rugby Borough after Rushden received a seven-day approach from the Warwickshire side. Ironically, Rushden drew 1-1 at Borough last Wednesday night.
However, Diamonds boss Elliot Sandy has already swooped to bring in midfielder Huw Dawson on a dual registration basis from Bedford Town.
Dawson has extensive experience at Step 2 with St Albans, prior to helping Bedford to Step 3 success last season, with the Eagles winning the Pitching-In Southern League Premier Central title. He had joined Bedford from Kettering Town.
Diamonds boss Elliot Sandy said: "I'm delighted to bring Huw to the club, he’s a young lad who had great success at Bedford last season and will bring energy and quality to our midfield.
"He ticks all the boxes of what we are trying to build at the club."
Diamonds were due to host Bedworth United in midweek before making the trip to Mickleover on Saturday, who were relegated from the Northern Premier League Premier Division last season.
Prior to their midweek game at Boldmere St Michaels, the Derbyshire side had lost both league games this season and last weekend went out of the FA Cup to Matlock Town at the first hurdle.
The bottom of the table side have lost all three games so far this term 2-0 so will be anxious to get points on the board against a Rushden side who should be welcoming back defenders David Agedbola and Tarik Dallas, who were both unavailable for the Borough trip due to family commitments.
Former Diamonds midfielder Fraser Corden is likely to be included in the Mickleover squad.
Sandy said: "We have made a positive start to the season and go into our next three games with confidence. Mickleover are looking for their first win so we know that it will be a tough game."
Following Saturday's encounter, Diamonds host near neighbours Corby Town on Bank Holiday Monday in an eagerly awaited local derby (ko 3pm).
Prior to their midweek game at Rugby Town, The Steelmen had won both their league games and have also won through to the first qualifying round of the FA Cup.