Diamonds sack players Andrade and Winters after on-field altercation leads to double dismissal
AFC Rushden & Diamonds have sacked Bruno Andrade and Tyler Winters after their on-field fight saw both players red-carded in Saturday's 3-0 defeat at Loughborough Students.
The two forwards were dismissed 20 minutes into the match at the Loughborough University Stadium, leaving Diamonds to play out the rest of the game with just nine players.
Manager Elliot Sandy said immediately after the game that the matter would be dealt with internally, and on Sunday evening the club confirmed that neither Andrade or Winters will play for the club again.
The statement read: "AFC Rushden & Diamonds can confirm that, following an on-field altercation during the fixture against Loughborough Students, the club have informed both Bruno Andrade and Tyler Winters that they will not be selected for the remainder of the 2025/26 season and are free to pursue opportunities with other clubs.
"The actions seen during the incident do not reflect the standards we expect of those representing AFC Rushden & Diamonds.
"As a fan-owned, community-driven club, we have a responsibility to uphold those standards and to act when they are not met.
"We would like to place on record our thanks to both players for their efforts this season and recognise the contribution they have made to the club’s performances.
"However, on this occasion, the issue extends beyond on-pitch contribution.
"This decision has been made following internal review and in consultation with first team management, while also taking into account feedback from our supporters.
"We recognise that football is an emotional game, but incidents of this nature require a clear and considered response in order to protect the integrity and reputation of the club. The club will be making no further comment at this time."
Both players took to social media to apologise for their actions.
Writing on X, former Kettering Town player Andrade said: "I want thank everyone from the bottom of my heart to everyone associated with the club from top to bottom for everything.
"Especially the fans that took me in and made me feel at home.
"The support and love was always acknowledged. I’m grateful. Sorry its ended this way."
Winters also issued a statement, which read: "To the AFC Rushden & Diamonds fans, staff, players I want to thank you for an incredible season and your support has been unbelievable.
"Things happen. I tried to remove myself from the situation long before the red, but got told to carry on. I wish you the best for the rest of the season."
Manager Sandy spoke to @AFCRD after the game, and said: "They have had a bit of a disagreement on the pitch and it has culminated in those two coming together.
"The linesman has said there was a bit of hands and stuff betweem the two of them, and there was obviously two red cards.
"They have let themselves down, they have let the club down, they have let their team-mates down and it is just so disappointing.
"It is inexcusable really, I have never had anything like that in football, and we will deal with internally."