Derry snap up Hammers keeper

Derry City manager Kevin Mahon has moved to stem the flow of goals that have characterised their season so far by signing highly-rated young Welsh goalkeeper David Forde on a short-term deal from West Ham United.

Forde, who spent a spell at Galway United two seasons ago, has joined the Brandywell club on a loan deal which will keep him on Foyleside at least until the end of July.

The 23-year-old, a £75,000 purchase by West Ham from Welsh side Barry Town, will go straight into the Derry side for Thursday night’s visit of fellow pointless side UCD to the Brandywell.

Former Bournemouth goalkeeper Andy Petterson, who began the season in goal for Derry in place of long-term injury victim Alan Gough, has been released by Kevin Mahon after conceding nine goals in his four games with the club.

In three of those games, Derry have conceded costly goals inside the first ten minutes, while St Patrick’s Athletic recovered from a goal down to run out 4-1 victors over the Candystripes last weekend.

Mahon has also indicated that two more players could arrive at Derry before Thursday’s clash with the Students.



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