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Back in the Groove
by
Ky Capel
Matt Groves is once again a Dorchester Town player after signing
a one-year deal last night.
The striker made 393 appearances for the Magpies before leaving
for Lewes in September 2007. After winning the Blue Square South
title with the Rooks, Groves then moved on to league rivals Eastleigh
but left the Spitfires at the end of last season and has now returned
to his former home.
The ex-Portsmouth trainee was not the only man to put pen to paper
last night, as Dorchester defenders Jake Smeeton and Gary Bowles
also sealed new two-year contracts.
Delighted boss Roy O’Brien said: “I’ve known
Matt for years and played with him before, and I’m pleased
to have him on board. I know what type of character and player
he is, hopefully we can utilise his strengths and hopefully he
can get us some goals.
“He’s been tremendously loyal to this club over the
years, he went away and tasted success and hopefully that will
rub off on the other players. Hopefully Jake and Gary will prepare
well for next season as it’s a massive campaign for all of
us, and it’s time for them to step up and cement their places
in the team.”
O’Brien is now focused on bringing in more new faces, and
securing the services of Mitchell Nicholson and keeper Gareth Stewart
for another season.
He added: “The squad is coming together nicely and there
are a few other lads that we are in talks with. Mitch and Gareth
though, we are both waiting to hear back from.”
So far, Dorchester have organised five pre-season friendlies.
They travel to Bashley (July 14) and Hamworthy United (July 21),
as well as hosting Eastbourne Borough (July 18), Bristol City (July
22) and Yeovil Town (July 25).
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