The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
Holbeach United have snapped up versatile defender Sam Carter and are closing on a deal for former favourite Stacy Cartwright as they bid to rebuild ahead of the new season.
Tigers boss Phil Barnes has confirmed that Carter, who played at right back in Saturday’s 4-0 victory over his former club Swaffham Town, has committed himself to the club for the coming campaign.
Fellow defender Cartwright, who is a popular figure at Carter’s Park, is also likely to sign after spending last season with ChomaSport UCL Premier Division North rivals Boston Town.
Barnes, who has lost the likes of Spencer Tinkler, Adam Jackson, Jon Fairweather, Josh Ford, Jack Withers and Johnny Lockie over pre-season, was also pleased with what he saw at Swaffham as Fraser Bayliss, Aaron Eyett, Jordan Elston and Will Barnes all netted.
“I think Sam is a very solid addition,” said the Holbeach chief. “He’s got a good attitude and is very versatile.
“He’s been playing right back, but can also move into central midfield if needed. So far he’s looked very solid and we’re very happy with him.
“Stacy (Cartwright) has been training with us and has told me that he’ll either play with us or not at all, so I’m hopeful we’ll get that one done too.
“He’s well liked at the club and I think he’d bring a lot to the squad if all goes to plan.
“I thought we played some good stuff on Saturday and knocked it around well. The second and fourth goals were really good team moves and we looked a lot fitter.”
Holbeach could also complete moves for Harry Grigas and Mohammed Hamza after both played in Tuesday night’s 1-1 friendly draw at March Town.
Grigas has UCL pedigree but played for Crowland Town last season, while ex-Peterborough United youth Hamza was with Bourne Town last season.
The Tigers took the lead through Hamza’s debut penalty, but were pegged back late on.
Meanwhile, Holbeach will visit Long Eaton in the extra preliminary round of the FA Cup on August 7, with a home tie against Shepshed Dynamo awaiting the winner in the preliminary round.
The Tigers are also away in the second qualifying round of the FA Vase at either Boston Town or Lutterworth Athletic.
