News Xtra - 15.5.23

Matlock Town have said farewell to another trio of players to add to the departure of goalkeeper Jim Pollard as manager Martin Carruthers revamps his squad for the forthcoming 2023/24 campaign.

Midfielders Brad Abbott and Saul Milovanovic plus striker Jorome Slew’s time at the Proctor Cars Stadium after only joining the club during the 2022/23 campaign.

Of the three, Slew is the longest serving, arriving a few days before the start of the season and he made an immediate impact, netting a 14th minute winner in the opening day home victory against Whitby Town. But Slew could not command a regular place as the season developed, many of his 32 appearances being as a substitute and he would only add three more goals to his tally.

Abbott joined the Gladiators in October from Boston United, his season being affected by injury, in particular a broken leg sustained in the 4-0 home derby win against Belper Town on Boxing Day. Abbott scored twice from midfield including a belter at Warrington Town which proved to be Matlock’s final goal of the season in a 4-1 play off semi final reverse. He made 15 appearances in total.

Milovanovic made his bow in December with Matlock having to obtain international clearance in the signing on process as he had been playing for Miramar Rangers in New Zealand. He played for Huddersfield Town under 18’s and Norwich City under 21’s before his non league journey began at Kettering Town. Milovanovic made eighteen appearances.

“I’d like to thank Jorome, Brad and Saul for their efforts this season, they all did what was asked of them. We wish them well wherever their careers take them” said Carruthers.

Meanwhile strikers Brad Wells and Harry Wakefield will be attending pre season training to try and earn deals with the Gladiators.

Ian Richardson.