Goalkeeper Finlay leaves Diamonds

The news was confirmed ahead of Diamonds’ 6-1 win over Wellingborough Town at Hayden Road last night (Tuesday) as they booked a place in the semi-finals of the NFA Hillier Senior Cup.

Finlay made 161 appearances for the club, keeping 47 clean sheets, after joining Diamonds from Cogenhoe United in February 2014.

He played a key role as Diamonds were promoted from the United Counties League Premier Division in 2015 and continued to be a star performer as he was named both the fans’ and players’ player of the season in the 2015-16 campaign.

He remained an important figure in the Evo-Stik League South last season as Diamonds were beaten by Witton Albion in the play-off semi-final but boss Andy Peaks has made Ben Heath his number one choice in the current campaign.

The Diamonds boss said: “For Matt it’s been very difficult as I have stuck with Ben this season as my number one and it is only fair for him to have the option of picking up a number 1 spot at another club.

“Matt has been instrumental since he arrived at the club in 2014 and has enjoyed promotions and play offs where he has been crucial to the team’s progress.

“He is the ultimate professional and I wish him all the best in the future.”