4thdec04

Sampson puts the record straight over Maidstone pair

TOMMY SAMPSON - manager of Southern League Division One East club Dartford - wants to put the record straight regarding Kevin Hudson and centre half Ross Edwards, writes Stephen McCartney.

Incorrect reports have been circulating around Kent football about the Maidstone United pair, but Sampson has finally put the record straight to www.kentishfootball.co.uk tonight.

Sampson wants to confirm he has signed Hudson and the 38-year-old goalkeeper isn't on loan.

"I have signed Kevin Hudson," he announced.

"He was a free agent, having left Maidstone about seven weeks ago.

"I am delighted to sign Kevin, someone with his experience is invaluable to us, and I am looking forward for Kevin filling the goalkeeper shirt for the rest of the season."

The capture of the former Folkestone, Dover, Margate and Ramsgate stopper will see Jimmy Simpson relegated to the reserve team "in the foreseeable future".

Hudson made his debut in today's 2-2 draw with Boreham Wood at Stonebridge Road.

Sampson added: "We are very pleased to have him - experienced goalkeepers are few and far between."

Edwards, who is now on Southern League forms with Dartford as well as Kent League forms with the Stones will be training with the Darts on Monday in a bid to get fit to play Southern League football.

Sampson said: "We had the opportunity to take Ross Edwards from Maidstone but decided not to bring him into the club at present because his fitness levels are not what's required to play Southern League football."

Tostao Kwashi and Eddie McClements made an instant impact for the Darts today, both finding the net against the Herfordshire side, having returned after suspension and injury.

Sampson described today's draw: "A great game of football.

"We missed two penalties, Kwashi and Danny Heale missed the second one, which Kwashi followed up to score and we deserved, I think on merit, to nick the three points, as Boreham Wood are a very strong and capable side."

The Darts were boosted with midfielder Mark Horan's decision to stay with the Darts, declining a move to league rivals Erith & Belvedere, pleasing the fans that worship him.

"Mark Horan was subject to a seven day approach from Erith & Belvedere but has decided he is quite happy at Dartford and will stay for however long," announced the manager.