Matata set for Deres debut

Erith & Belvedere have brought in proven striker Walid Matata and highly-rated teenage defender Jake McIntyre.

Both players have been signed in time to make their Ryman North debuts for the Deres on Tuesday night when Chris Cosgrove’s side travel to Heybridge Swifts.

Matata, pictured, kicked off his career at Arsenal’s Academy. The 31-yer-old's footballing CV includes spells at Bishops Stortford, Billericay Town, Dover Athletic, East Thurrock United, Dulwich Hamlet and most recently Enfield.

Deres Secretary Adam Peters says they’ve signed a 'natural born striker' who will bring goals and 'experience' to the improving Park View Road outfit. He said: "Walid is just the kind of player we need here at Park View Road right now. With such a young squad it is important to bring in an older player as a seasoned head to have in the dressing room."

McIntyre, 19, has switched from Aveley where he’s already proved more than capable of playing at Ryman League level. He can play across the back line and Adams believes his arrival will be a real boost to the Deres defence.

"I believe that these players will add to the positive vibe around here at Park View Road," added the Deres Secretary. "We have a strong team ethic and having these lads added to it can only be a good thing. We have taken well to the Ryman League and while we may not be up the top of the table I have nothing but praise for all our players, backroom staff and supporters.”