SAFE HANDS, SON!
Preston Edwards’ manic Monday... a new Dulwich deal and a new arrival
IT’S a good job that goalkeeper Preston Edwards is good with his hands – he had something of a Monday to remember after signing for Dulwich Hamlet, only hours after his wife Mia gave birth to their first child!
Rios Preston Edwards was born in the early hours, while new dad announced his decision to sign for Dulwich later that day.
The 26-year-old signed a pre-contract agreement with the Champion Hill side and is set to join them permanently on July 1. Who better to be left holding the baby?
“Mother and child are doing fantastically well,” he said.
“I’m really looking forward to the experience ahead. Apart from my wedding day, there’s nothing that comes close to it.
“I enjoyed my time at Dulwich last season,” he added.
“There were a few other offers on the table, but it felt the right thing to do.
“I like the management and the boys, so for me it was a no-brainer to be honest.”
Having spent the second part of last season on loan at Dulwich, Edwards appeared 12 times and was an integral part of their run to the Ryman Premier play-off final.
Reflect
They lost 3-1 in the final to East Thurrock United and Edwards was naturally disappointed about the result, but he admits they were second best on the day. “I’ve had a lot of time to reflect on the game and we just weren’t good enough,” he said. “We had a lot of space in the second half but we just couldn’t take advantage of it. “We were disappointed not to get promoted, but we’ll go again next season. “The club is prepared to be promoted. It’s easier said than done, I know, but that will be the aim.” He joins the club following a sixyear spell at Ebbsfleet United and, although the decision to leave was a tough one, Edwards acknowledges the time was right. “It was the moment to move on,” he said.“It’s a great club, but when you aren’t getting in the team it’s time to go. “I’m proud of what I achieved there. I played more than 200 times and captained the club for a while, too.” Dulwich have added Sanchez Ming, Nathan Green, Michael Chambers, Ibrahim Kargbo and Alfred Mugabo to the signing of Edwards, showing their intent to go one better next season.