Rikki Bains signs from Darlington

Date: Friday 15th January 2010, by Tynesider

Update: Rikki Bains has officially signed for Gateshead on a 6 month loan deal from Darlington with a view to a permanent deal. Bains will go straight into the squad for tomorrows match at Forest Green, and may even start.

Earlier this morning, we reported that Bains was rumoured to be joining on a 6 month loan:

Rumours emerging from Darlington have Centre Half Rikki Bains joining us on a 6-month loan deal. With Darlington signing Luton's Alan White on-loan, this would in theory free up Bains.

Bains was at Blythe Spartans on-loan before Christmas, where it's said he played well. Going back to Darlington to fight for his place may be about to come to a premature end with White rejoining and Foster possibly sorting out his contract dispute.

Bains was mentioned as a target of Bogies in the Chronicle a couple of weeks back. Having started the season playing out of position at right-back with Darlington, he was moved out on loan by Steve Staunton. Bains comes with prior Conference experience as standout player at Tamworth in 2006/07. Since then, the 21 year old has moved onto Kings Lynn (loan), Corby Town, Macclesfield and Darlington.

The acquisition of Bains would take our Centre Half stock back up to 4 after the release of Stephane Pelonde.

Forest Green Rovers - Away (Update)

Saturday's match at Forest Green is set to go ahead after a mammoth effort to clear the pitch of snow. The pitch is now said to be completely clear, revealing a firm surface. Tomorrow the FGR staff and helpers will concentrate on clearing the snow from the surrounding paths.

Gateshead set off south at midday to stay overnight. With no further pitch inspection expected (at the time of writing) and the weather said to be warmer (with rain) over the weekend, then the only danger could possibly be waterlogging (fingers crossed to avoid that).

Carl Jones could be set to make his first appearance in a Heed shirt since August 25th (York City at Home) with Chris Swailes struggling through injury. Jones after recovering from injury has played in a Reserve team friendly against Darlington and a behind closed doors practice match against a Newcastle United XI. Daryl Clare is set to play for the first time as a permanent signing, where he will be partnered by either Graeme Armstrong or Steven Richardson.

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Last time out...

New stadium...

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Rikki Bains signs from Darlington

Forest Green Rovers - Away (Update)