JUSTICE has been served, say AFC Rushden & Diamonds, after the club was allowed to keep Dale Roberts’ No.1 jersey in retirement.
Non-League football united in opposition after the Southern League told newly-promoted Rushden that players must wear 1-11 at the start of matches, despite the historical and emotional significance of the jersey.
Roberts took his own life in 2010 when he was a player at the original Rushden & Diamonds club, which closed in 2011 amid a financial crisis.
The phoenix club vowed to honour him and, since their formation, none of their goalkeepers has worn the No.1 jersey.
That was put in jeopardy when the club heard that what was acceptable in the United Counties would not be tolerated in the Southern League.
An online petition drew attention to their complaint and attracted nearly 5,000 supportive signatures.
Logical
Rushden asked the FA to get involved, and on Thursday it overruled the league and confirmed the club are free to put No.17 on the goalkeeper’s jersey.
It is suggested that a squad numbering system should be put forward for member clubs’ consideration next season.
Diamonds manager Andy Peaks said: “The logical thing has been done. Dale Roberts did a lot for the clubs and for these supporters. We felt it was the right thing to do to fight the decision and this shows the strength of football once people get behind something.
“We talk a lot about respect these days. There’s the FA campaign and, of course, all players now shake hands before a match.
“In my day there was none of that. We just did it after. To not allow us the respect to remember Dale would have been wrong.
“It shouldn’t have had to get this far in the first place, but we’re very grateful for all the support we have received.”
Rushden had their first Southern League Central win on Tuesday night, a late 2-1 victory over Aylesbury United. They are still unbeaten after the 3-1 win over Chalfont on Saturday, and Peaks is pleased they are turning draws into victories.
“There’s not the pressures of last season to win promotion but that doesn’t mean we’re not looking for the play-offs.” he said.
