Ford takes his chance for Diamonds as Evangelinos departs

The winger, who joined Diamonds in the summer, had been an impressive performer in recent weeks for Andy Peaks’ team.

Evangelinos scored four goals this during the first couple of months of the season and was instrumental in an unbeaten run that has seen Diamonds move into the top six of the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Division One South.

That run was extended to 12 matches as two goals from Tom Lorraine and a first for the club from Ben Ford sealed a 3-0 success at Loughborough Dynamo.

Ford’s goal came on his first start for Diamonds and Peaks was pleased to see him take the opportunity that presented itself following Evangelinos’ departure.

“Nic has been great for us and he got better and better,” the Diamonds boss said.

“I knew this was coming and he’s been given the opportunity for a job in Manchester.

“He has left on the best terms, we are going to keep his registration because he’s going to play at a lower level up there and the door will always be open to him.

“But him leaving created an opportunity for Ben.

“He has had to wait for his chance to play in what is his preferred position.

“I think he will agree he is still getting up to full match fitness but he came into the side and got a goal and that was great to see.”