GOALKEEPER Gerard Benfield has returned to Weymouth, on loan from Salisbury until the end of the season.

The move comes after Terras stopper Zaki Oualah had a night to forget in defeat at Chippenham on Tuesday, conceding directly from a corner before giving away a crucial penalty in stoppage time.

Benfield made four competitive appearances for the Terras in the 2020-21 campaign, two in the FA Trophy and two in the National League.

He rejoins the club to try and boost their National League South survival bid, while Southern Premier outfit Salisbury retain a recall option in the deal.

Terras boss Bobby Wilkinson said: “I’ve watched Gerard a couple of times, he’s a great goalkeeper who gives us a bit of experience to help us during the run-in.

“I had a good chat with Gerard yesterday and he’s hungry to come in and help us stay up.

“A big thank you to Salisbury FC and manager Brian Dutton for their help and professionalism in helping us bring Gerard in for the remainder of the season.”

Benfield has not been featuring for Salisbury in recent weeks.

Discussing the decision to let him leave, Dutton explained: “With Mark Smith coming in and doing well during Gerard’s injury, we’ve seized the opportunity to free up some of the wage budget but still have the luxury to be able to recall Benfield in required.

“This also gives Gerard the chance to play some games for Weymouth between now and the end of the season as they look to beat relegation.”

Benfield could be involved for Weymouth in their huge relegation six-pointer at Cheshunt on Saturday.

The stopper returned to Salisbury last summer, having also featured for Dorchester Town and Wimborne Town in recent seasons, as well as Weymouth.