Keeper Gardner leaves Sidley

Gardner switched clubs without informing Sidley joint managers Peter Heritage and Glen Sully.

Heritage was unaware of the move until contacted by the Observer but magnanimously wished Gardner every success at the Salts. He said: "It's going to be news to me and Glen. We've had no approach unless he's approached them (which is believed to be the case). If he decides he wants to go then all the best to him."

Sidley will finally attempt to resolve their twice postponed SCFA RUR Cup quarter-final with Arundel on Saturday February 8.

The match was due to take place at Mill Road last weekend but was again called off owing to a waterlogged pitch but the cancellation may well have been a blessing in disguise for United as the tie has been switched to Gullivers.