Tuton returns to Matlock fold

The Gladiators lost 1-0 at Witton Albion last weekend, their fifth league outing without a win in which a meagre three points have been collected and three goals scored.

Matlock dominated the match, restricting the Cheshire outfit to just one chance which was taken as Anthony Gardner cracked in the 20th minute decider.

In contrast Town created several good chances and missed the lot.

But boss Mark Atkins refused to be too downhearted as he prepares his troops to face Trafford at home on Saturday

“The last two away matches have been disappointing in that the opposing managers have come up to us and said we fully deserved to win the game .

“What they have shown is that there’s not a deal wrong. On Saturday we had four good chances but were punished by what was actually a very good Witton goal.

“The effort and determination is there. We’ve had a run of tough games where we’ve more than held our own. The confidence is still there, we just need to get our shooting boots on and get in front in games.”

Twenty-two-year old Tuton originally joined Matlock from Teversal at the beginning of last season after scoring and impressing in a pre season game between the two clubs.

He managed just one goal in his first spell which ended after six weeks when he moved to Christchurch Meadow, that one goal coming in an FA Cup tie against the Nailers.

He quickly made a name for himself at Belper scoring 22 goals in little over a year in which he had trials with Chesterfield.

But Tuton has slipped out of favor at the First Division South promotion contenders and Atkins was keen to have Tuton back, particularly as Derbyshire Premier Division rivals Buxton and Ilkeston were rumored to be interested in recruiting him.

Atkins also discounted suggestions that Tuton’s arrival is a reaction to the Witton defeat.

“I’ve been looking to bring in another striker for several weeks now,” he said.

“I’ve kept an eye on Shaun ever since he left us and have seen him a couple of times this season and have been impressed by him.

“He’s got a good scoring record at Belper, an excellent work rate and has decent strength and pace which means he should be a good addition to our squad.”

Tuton could make his debut against Trafford alongside joint top scorer Danny Holland with fellow leading marksman on ten goals, Daryll Thomas, again a doubt with a thigh strain.

Matlock will be aiming to extend their good home record which has seen only title favorites Chorley leave the Reynolds Stadium with all three points.

The hosts’ other objective is to reverse an opening day defeat at Trafford who fought back to win 2-1 after Thomas had given Matlock a first-half lead.