Andy Munns
Salisbury FC’s preparations for the new season continue with more friendlies and another new signing.
Salisbury ran out 8-0 winners away at Shaftesbury at the weekend, striker Devon Arnold was busy proving his worth by bagging half of that total.
Yesterday, Salisbury also announced the signing of an experienced defender, Sido Jombati. Able to play as both centre-back and right-back, the Portuguese 35-year-old has extensive experience in the football league for Wycombe Wanderers and Cheltenham Town.
He is a well-known player to manager Brian Dutton as they were previously teammates in the early parts of their careers.
Dutton said of the signing, “I’m absolutely delighted to get Sido over the line. He’s a real marquee signing and a real show of intent from the Chairman on how much he’s wanting all the fans to have an exciting season this year.
“Sido was a former teammate of mine when we were both in our early 20s, and I’m not surprised to see him have the career he’s had, churning out many games in the Football League.
“He has lots of ability, but his mindset and mentality is his strongest asset, and I’m hoping he can impart lots of his qualities on our younger players in the group to help them try and create a similar path as Sido has.”
Salisbury then played their latest friendly yesterday (4th July) evening away at Oxford City, who have been promoted to the National League this season.
The two sides played out an entertaining 0-0 draw providing a good workout for both sides.
After the game, Brian Dutton said, “It was a fixture that got thrown at us recently, and it’s probably a bit early for our group. But credit to our lads, they acquitted themselves really well and competed and managed a 0-0 draw.
“It wasn’t a case of clinging on and competing really well. They had their chances, and we had our chances.
“I want the lads to get the ball down and play but without being a soft touch. It’s not about a short or long pass; it’s about the right pass.”
Salisbury’s next pre-season game is away at Cirencester Town on Saturday (8th July) of this week; kick-off is at 3 pm.
