Keeper Barnard signs new deal

8:32am Wednesday 20th August 2008

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GOALKEEPER Richard Barnard has finally put pen to paper on a season-long contract at Weymouth and boss John Hollins is absolutely delighted.

The 27-year-old has been a revelation since he arrived at the Wessex Stadium, helping the Terras claim seven points from their opening three games in the Blue Square Premier.

Barnard was first called into action at late notice for the injured Danny Knowles for the pre-season friendly against Yeovil Town on August 2.

Since then he has kept hold of the number one spot even though Knowles has finally shaken off a niggling groin problem.

Hollins said: "I am very happy indeed that Richard has signed. I have known him for a while and always knew what he was capable of and the way he has come in and performed has been magnificent and long may it continue."

Saturday's 1-1 draw at Stevenage Borough wrapped up a busy run of three games in eight days for the Terras that also saw them claim a 3-1 home win over Grays Athletic and a 1-0 success at Oxford United.

Those results have put the club in third place and with the squad still injury free Hollins is ecstatic with the way things are going.

He added: "We took the lads for a swim yesterday and today we have given them the day off.

"As the squad is relatively small we cannot afford to overwork them or get anyone injured, we need a clean bill of health and at the moment I am glad to say that is what we have."

When asked whether he is likely to add anymore players to his squad, Hollins said: "We will continue to keep juggling and working hard within the budget to keep the club where it is.

"We have had a fantastic start and it is important that we maintain that momentum, starting with the home game against Lewes on Saturday."

Young goalkeeper James Beale, who hails from Sturminster Newton and played for the Terras in pre-season, is no longer with the club.

Hollins revealed: "James is currently playing for Yeovil Town."