Pollard departures for pastures new

Goalkeeper Jim Pollard is leaving Matlock Town.

Pollard (24) was signed by Matlock’s first manager last season Paul Phillips from Grantham Town. He had begun his career at Sheffield United and then had a season at Barrow before joining Maltby Main. He also had a short spell at Gainsborough Trinity prior to joining Grantham where despite showing impressive form, was unable to save the Gingerbreads from relegation from the NPL Premier Division in 2021/22.

He was an ever present until catching Covid-19 forcing him out of the games against Bamber Bridge and Buxton but returned to the starting line up for the 4-0 Boxing Day derby home thrashing of Belper Town which was current manager Martin Carruthers’ first game in charge.

However, Pollard was sent off in the first half of the defeat at Gainsborough in Town’s next game and was suspended for the 2-0 win at Stafford Rangers game when the vastly experienced former Burton Albion, Notts County and Derby County goalkeeper Saul Deeney came in, saving a penalty on his debut. Pollard would only make two further starts, the1-1 draw at champions South Shields and a 3-2 win at Stalybridge as Deeney was preferred between the sticks for the rest of the campaign.

Carruthers explained that he would have liked to have kept Pollard but understands the reasoning behind his departure.

“I’ve spoken with Jim, naturally he wants to play and be first choice but I can’t guarantee him that. He’s a great lad and his attitude has been great since I came to the club. He’s played well when called upon, we thank him for his services to the club and wish him the very best for the future.”

Ian Richardson