Evans agrees new deal with the Gladiators!

Another piece of the Matlock Town defensive jigsaw was put in place today with the confirmation that Ioan Evans has agreed a new deal with the Gladiators.

Evans left Stalybridge Celtic to sign for Matlock in September 2021 following Sam Egerton’s move to Warrington Rylands and soon formed an effective partnership with Ryan Qualter at the heart of the defence.

Now 25 years old, Evans began his career in his native Wales at the Newport County Academy playing for both the Welsh under 17’s and under 19 teams prior to a move to Sheffield United. While at Bramall Lane he had a loan spell at Boston United before being released and embarking on his non-league career featuring at Gainsborough Trinity and Tadcaster Albion before his move to Stalybridge.

Evans has been a consistent performer under three managers at Matlock, his current boss Martin Carruthers being full of praise for his efforts since taking over the managerial reins in December 2022.

“Evo’s a brilliant competitor and as we’ve seen he’ll run through a brick wall for this club. Stitches to the head, Terry Butcher style bandage, he’s a real soldier. He’s been magnificent, a powerhouse for us and I’m over the moon to get the deal over the line” said Carruthers.

Evans, who is also a potent threat at set pieces has netted four goals in 79 appearances and joins Jamie Sharman in confirming his allegiance to Carruthers and Matlock for the 2023/24 campaign.

Ian Richardson