NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL: Dion Sembie-Ferris departure disappoints St Neots Town manager

St Neots Town manager Matt Clements admitted the departure of one of the club’s key players has left him disappointed.

Fans’ favourite Dion Sembie-Ferris made a sudden exit from the Southern League Premier Division Central side to join Peterborough Sports, who play a level further down the non-league ladder, yesterday.

The 22 year-old was left out of Saints’ starting line-up for their 3-2 defeat at Alvechurch last Saturday and his appearance as a substitute in that game proved to be his final outing in a 15-month spell with the club.

Sembie-Ferris was part of the Saints youth set-up as a youngster and then returned last year following a four-year spell at League Two club Colchester United.

“I’m disappointed to lose Dion for two reasons,” said Clements. “He has been one of our main men throughout his time at the club and I also felt sure there was a lot more to come from him.

“Dion had fallen out of love with football after being let go by Colchester, but he has played with a smile on his face in the past year while back at St Neots.

“He has produced some excellent performances and been involved in some terrific moments.

“We certainly didn’t want to see Dion leave, but he felt he needed a fresh start again and we all wish him the very best.”

The departure of Sembie-Ferris has left Clements scouring for new attacking recruits as Saints bid to climb the league standings.

His exit also comes at a time when the club are short on numbers with full-back Devante Stanley and centre-back Russell Short both picking up injuries at Alvechurch. They are both expected to miss a home clash against Needham Market tonight, 7.45pm.

Saints are without a fixture this Saturday due to scheduled opponents Barwell still being involved in the FA Trophy. The Leicestershire side actually dumped Saints out in the previous round.

Clements’ men then have another home game next Tuesday when they entertain Leiston at the Premier Plus Stadium.