Lowestoft lose another big player as they continue to fight against the tide ahead of trip to Harrow

Dan Humphries went beyond the call of duty for Lowestoft Town when they went to Enfield Town last weekend. Picture: Shirley D Whitlow (Image: Shirley D Whitlow)

Goalkeeper Ben Dudzinski has become the latest big-name player to depart troubled Lowestoft Town.

Dudzinski has followed Harry Barker and Jake Reed out of Lowestoft, who are struggling to pay their players.

The keeper – a Bostik Premier ever-present this season after joining last summer – has signed for National League South side Havant & Waterlooville.

'I leave Lowestoft with a heavy heart,' he told the club's official website. 'I signed for a one-year deal and my intention throughout the season was to see that deal through.

'I've thoroughly enjoyed my time here and I didn't have any urge to leave early. However, given the club's situation and the interest shown,

'I have accepted a new challenge and opportunity at Havant & Waterlooville which I am very excited about. But again, I do leave with a very heavy heart having loved playing for Lowestoft Town this year.

'I would like to say a massive thank you to the fans for all the support that they have given to me and more importantly the team throughout my time at the club. At times things have been tough on and off the pitch but every week we've had excellent support and as players we can't thank you enough.

'I cannot speak highly enough of the Lowestoft fans – it's been an absolute pleasure getting to know you whilst playing for your team.

'I would also like to thank the club staff, team-mates and coaching staff (special mention to Bob the GK coach) for making my experience at the club so enjoyable.

'Lowestoft have a fantastic set of players and coaches – I know that they'll safely guide the club through to the end of the season.

'I wish Lowestoft Town all the best for the future and I will be sure to carry on supporting the club as a fan.'

There was some news to soften the blow a little ahead of Saturday's trip to Harrow Borough, with two new players coming in – Ipswich Town defender Ross Marshall and Thetford Town midfielder Max Melanson.

Marshall has signed on loan until the end of the season and Melanson has signed a duel registration with the club along with Thetford.

Lowestoft's problems weren't helped by the postponement of Tuesday's home match against Wingate & Finchley due to a waterlogged pitch.

The club have been unequivocal that the short-term answer to their financial problems is to get as many fans through the gates for their remaining five home games this season. Bumper crowds would give them a chance of settling some of the unpaid bills the club are in receipt of, most notably the wages of a squad that weren't paid for January.

So a week further on and the Lowestoft public still hasn't had the chance to demonstrate its commitment to the club in its time of need.

They will at least get the chance when Dulwich Hamlet go to the Amber Dew Events Stadium on Tuesday night but first manager Dale Brooks is cobbling together a side for Saturday's trip.

Lowestoft managed to put out a strong side for their trip to Enfield when, by most accounts, the 3-0 scoreline was harsh on the visitors.

Brooks is acutely aware of the Blues' need for points in their battle to avoid relegation.

But Brooks has been struck by the support of his players – none other than Southend loanee Dan Humphries, who answered the Blues' call last weekend.

'Just as I was about to leave I got a message from Dan saying that his game for Southend was off and he asked if I needed him,' said Brooks, who can normally only call upon the services of Humphries for midweek games due to his involvement in games for the Shrimpers' academy.

'I asked if he could get to Enfield and he said he could. It's that sort of commitment that we need right now.'