New signings aim to sharpen Matlock Town's goalscoring edge
Matlock Town have moved quickly in the transfer market to reinforce their striking options, announcing the acquisitions of two forwards who bring a blend of recent prolific form and experience from higher tiers of the non‑league pyramid.
Zak Goodson arrives from Quorn after a standout campaign in which he scored 23 goals in 39 appearances, finishing last season as one of the most productive forwards at Step 3. His recent form earned him several individual awards at Quorn, including Players’ Player of the Season and multiple Man of the Match honours.
Goodson is not without experience at higher levels. Four seasons ago he was influential in Ilkeston Town’s promotion-winning season, contributing 22 goals in 42 appearances as the Robins won the NPL Midlands title. Subsequent moves took him into the National League system with Altrincham and included loan spells with Boston United and Spennymoor Town before a later spell at Chester.
The club have described the capture of Goodson as a significant coup for the Gladiators, with his attributes of pace and intelligent movement expected to complement Matlock’s attacking pattern and provide a new dimension in the final third.
- Player: Zak Goodson
- From: Quorn FC
- Recent record: 23 goals in 39 games
- Previous highlight: 22 goals in 42 games for Ilkeston Town
The second forward, Manassé Mampala — commonly known as "Manny" — brings a different profile. A product of the Everton youth system, Mampala moved through the academies and ranks at several clubs, including Queens Park Rangers and a spell at Carlisle United. His pathway has also included time at Weymouth (on loan), Hyde United and Marine.
While at Hyde he made 29 appearances and scored eight times, later joining Marine in 2023 and spending part of the 2024 season back at Hyde on loan. He started the 2024/25 campaign with Farsley Celtic and had a brief loan period with Matlock prior to completing his move to Emley AFC. The Gladiators have now secured his services on a permanent basis.
- Player: Manassé Mampala
- Background: Everton youth academy; spells with QPR and Carlisle United
- Recent clubs: Hyde United, Marine, Farsley Celtic; short loan with Matlock
- Hyde record: 29 appearances, 8 goals
"one of the most exciting forwards at Step 3"
The arrivals represent contrasting but complementary additions. Goodson arrives off the back of a highly productive season and a clear goalscoring pedigree, while Mampala brings physicality, academy training and experience across several non‑league levels. Together they increase competition for places and offer the manager options both for leading the line and for rotation in mid‑season runs.
What this means for Matlock supporters
For local supporters, the signings signal an intent to push for stronger results up front. Matlock Town have previously sought reinforcements to maintain momentum across a long league campaign and the club will be hoping the new forwards can convert chances and help secure vital points.
Recruitment at this stage of the summer typically aims to balance immediate impact with longer‑term fit. Goodson’s recent goalscoring form suggests he could be ready to hit the ground running, while Mampala’s background indicates potential to develop into a consistent contributor when deployed in the right system.
| Player | Most recent club | Notable recent stats |
|---|---|---|
| Zak Goodson | Quorn FC | 23 goals in 39 appearances |
| Manassé Mampala | Ashton United / recent loans | 29 appearances, 8 goals (Hyde United) |
Supporters will watch pre‑season and the opening league fixtures to assess how quickly the new signings adapt to Ricky Ravenhill’s style and how they influence Matlock’s attacking output. The club’s move to add two recognised forwards underlines a clear priority: more goals and greater firepower as the season approaches.
Further details on contract lengths and squad selection were not disclosed at the time of the announcement. The club is expected to provide additional information and opportunities for fans to see the new recruits in pre‑season fixtures before competitive matches commence.
