THE latest Buckland Athletic acquisition sees their 1st XI manager Matt Cusack reunited with a familiar face.

Versatile forward Jamie Simmonds has worked under Cusack twice before, at Helston Athletic and at Saltash United.

On this new arrival, the man in charge commented: “He’s a technical player, likes to get on the ball and hopefully he can find a home here at Buckland.

“We want to kick on and enjoy some success together, something that we’ve been accustomed to with previous clubs. Hopefully he can help us on that journey.”

As alluded to there, the duo were together when both Helston and Saltash secured respective promotions and Buckland are finely poised to compete for one of their own.

The weekend’s victory away at leaders Clevedon Town can certainly serve as a memorable moment in time that kicks the Yellows on, captain Ben Carter scoring the only goal of the game in Somerset.

In that one, Simmonds “came on for 15 or 20 minutes and was superb.”

Cusack added, “He helped us see the game out, won his duels, came on for Bushy and made a really vital contribution.”

Two major blows recently became three as, unfortunately, Ruben Kane was ruled out with an ACL injury of his own, joining Sammy Stayt and Jared Lewington on the sidelines.

Simmonds’ versatility means that “He can play as an attacking midfielder or as a utility number nine”- the former Ivybridge Town man will be able to fill the voids left behind by Lewington and Kane.

Given the injury situation at The VX3 Stadium, youngsters have been given the opportunities to step up and they will continue to do so, Cusack highlighting one in particular.

“Young Toby Hard has stepped up really well for us and done that as well [fill the voids], Simmo then offers a chance for further competition.”

As per the Western League website, Simmonds made eight appearances for Buckland’s rivals Ivybridge prior to making the switch, four of which were starts.

Providing another, much-needed option in the final third, this looks like another smart piece of business from the Bucks.