Chichester delighted to land Pagham duo

Scott Murfin takes a Pagham penalty / Picture by Roger Smith

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Chichester City have secured a big double signing by recruiting goal ace Scott Murfin and versatile Ruben French from Pagham.

Both players have signed for City from their Sussex League division-one local rivals.

Striker Murfin, who used to play for Chichester’s youth team, bagged 34 goals in 42 games for Pagham last season and has been a big part of their squad for the past five years.

French will strengthen Chichester’s back-line but can also be a useful operator in midfield. He has spent the past two-and-a- half seasons with Pagham.

The double boost is a signal of intent from Chichester that they mean business in the new season – while it will give Lions fans plenty to think about as two key men depart.

Chichester manager Daren Pearce had only positive things to say about both new signings, saying they will bring quality to the squad.

“Both players add the right quality to the team and are both from the local area,” said Pearce.

“Scott adds a cutting edge up front and his goalscoring record shows that, where as Ruben has a wand of a left foot and is a set-piece specialist.”

Pearce felt he needed to strengthen a squad who last season were found lacking at times at both ends of the pitch.

Their goal difference in 2014-15 was poor and showed the need for an improved squad, he said.

“We have