Eynesbury have been dealt a hammer blow by the sudden departure of their star striker.

Dom Lawless notified manager Mark Ducket of his exit earlier today – just 24 hours after hitting his 40th goal of a stunning season.

Lawless, who arrived from fellow United Counties League Premier Division side Newport Pagnell last season, is not understood to have another club lined up.

“I got a message from Dom this afternoon,” said Ducket. “I have to admit it came completely out of the blue.

“I wasn’t at the game yesterday due to serving my stadium ban, so we haven’t had the chance to speak face-to-face.

“Dom’s message to me says he’s not been enjoying his football lately and that there are a number of reasons why he has decided to move on. He assures me he hasn’t spoken to any other clubs.

“To score 40 goals in a season is a brilliant achievement at any level of football and it goes without saying that he’ll be hugely missed.

“We’ll need others to step up to the plate now for the rest of the season.”

Lawless is not the first depature of note from Eynesbury this season. In fact all four of the club’s major summer signings - goalkeeper Dan George, defender Steven Gentle, wideman Declan Rogers and now Lawless - have moved on.

Lawless leaves having scored in his final seven appearances for Eynesbury. His last goal arrived in the third minute of a disappointing 1-1 home draw against rock-bottom Oadby Town yesterday.

He struck with a fine solo effort in an opening period of few chances and a penalty save from recent goalkeeping recruit Aaron Butcher early in the second half preserved Rovers’ advantage.

Only the crossbar denied Eynesbury a second goal when being hit by Hayden Bream from long range, while visiting goalkeeper Tom Hubbard denied Lawless and fellow frontman Craig Smith.

But, just when it looked like one goal would be enough to earn victory, Rovers were stung by a late Oadby leveller as substitute Harry Alcock headed in at the near post.

Life after Lawless begins with a Hunts Senior Cup semi-final at home to Premier Division leaders Yaxley on Tuesday night, 7.45pm.

Holders Eynesbury can set up a repeat of last season’s final against neighbours St Neots Town with victory.

Rovers then go to Leicester Nirvana in the Premier Division on Saturday.

The club’s appeal over Ducket’s seven-game stadium ban is due to be heard on Monday, March 5.