‘Influential’ Jones returns to Spalding United as they draw first home pre-season fixture

Spalding United have added another high-profile signing to their ranks after sealing a deal for Archie Jones.

On loan from Isthmian League Premier side Bishop’s Stortford for part of last season, Jones has decided to make the switch to the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field permanent.

Spalding manager Brett Whaley reckons that Tulips’ fans didn’t get to see Jones at peak fitness last term and feels he can be an “influential” signing.

“I’m delighted to have Archie back at the club,” enthused Whaley. “He did really well for us during his brief loan last season despite only being 75 per cent fit.

“He will be really influential for us this season and we’ll see his true ability.”

The Tulips continued their pre-season fixtures with a 0-0 draw against St Ives Town on Saturday.

New signing Josh Moreman saw a first-half penalty saved for Spalding, who also saw defender Luca Bucci carried off with a nasty looking leg injury.

Spalding are at Deeping Rangers tonight (7.45pm) night and visit Harrowby on Friday night.

Meanwhile, the Tulips will be at home on the first day of the new Pitching In NPL Midlands League season on August 13.

They host Daventry Town on match day one, before an away trip to Cambridge City on August 17.

Games with Shepshed Dynamo (home, Aug 23), Coleshill Town (away, Aug 7) and Yaxley (home, Aug 29) then complete the first month of the league season.