SALISBURY boss Steve Claridge celebrated a double dose of good news last night.

Not only did the Whites register their first ever Sydenhams Premier Division victory, but the signing of local hero Robbie Matthews was confirmed before the 2-0 result at Andover Town.

A goal in each half by new signing Tom Whelan and ex-Follands man Calum Brockway settled the issue in front of a 500-plus crowd at The Portway Stadium.

Wiltshire-born Matthews, 33, started out at Salisbury and went on to play for the likes of Crawley Town, Kidderminster Harriers, Newport County and Forest Green Rovers. He is also well remembered at Eastleigh where he played a part in helping them up the leagues towards the Conference South.

A versatile centre forward/centre half, he was with Gosport Borough last season and had a spell on loan with Hayes & Yeading.

Hailing Matthews’ return, Claridge said: “We are delighted to have Robbie back.

“It’s a shame we haven’t been able to sign him before, but he has been carrying an injury.

“Now he is fit he will bring something different to the club.

“He is a versatile lad and will help bring on our younger players as well as making a big contribution either up top or at the back.”