Pontefract Collieries have made a statement of intent about their ambitions for the club by adding two top class players to their squad, as the management team strive to maintain the push for promotion and the NCEL First Division Championship.

Goalkeeper Sam Dobbs has signed from Rainworth Miners Welfare, with Andy Broadbent making the move to The White Rose Stadium from AFC Emley. Manager Simon Houghton is excited by the addition of the two, stating: “With a strong squad, we are only interested in adding players of a high quality, who can make a real difference over the second half of the season. Andy and Sam fit that bill perfectly!”

Dobbs has signed from Evo Stik League side Rainworth, having previously played with Nostell. A strong ‘keeper with a good all-round game, Houghton has been tracking the player for around three years. “I have watched Sam many times over the last three years,” explained Houghton, “and have raved about his performance every time I’ve seen him. He’s a top quality ‘keeper. His attitude is fantastic, he has a burning commitment towards self-improvement, and his professionalism will ensure that he is a terrific addition to our dressing room, and on the training pitch”. With Andrew Joburns in such fine form, the club will be bolstered by the presence of two quality goalkeepers in the First Team squad.

Dobbs is delighted to be joining the club, stating, “I have always been impressed with Simon Houghton, and know what the manager is always about. When Simon explained all about the club, the ambitions and set-up at Pontefract, I knew it was the right move for me. I hope to play a big part in Pontefract’s future.”

Midfielder Andy Broadbent joins the club from NCEL rivals AFC Emley. Broadbent is a combative midfielder, who started his career at Sheffield Wednesday, before choosing a career in law over professional football. Still only 23, Broadbent has enjoyed spells at Stocksbridge and Staveley before joining Emley. Houghton is equally delighted in his signing: “When it became clear that Josh Wright’s injury would keep him out for the season, it was apparent that we would need another central midfielder. We are delighted that Andy fits the bill perfectly. He’s strong, athletic, with good vision and a great all-round game. And, at 23 years old, he’s the perfect age to be joining us.”

The addition of these two quality players should give the squad a boost, ensure that the team have quality options in all positions, and send a clear message to Ponte’s rivals about the clubs intentions. Houghton believes that his squad is now perfectly balanced, and well set to make a serious tilt at the title.