By Matt Lawton
October 6 2004

Leigh RMI boss Phil Starbuck (pictured) has reacted to his side's poor defensive record with the signing of goalkeeper Paul Crichton from York City. RMI have conceded ten goals in just their past two games, and Starbuck has laid the blame at the feet of young goalkeeper Ian Martin, although some would suggest it is unfair to blame one man for what it a team-wide problem. However, despite making two excellent saves, Martin can certainly feel a little responsible for a couple of Carlisle goals in last night's humiliating 6-1 home defeat to the Cumbrians, a result which seemingly prompted Starbuck's action.

It is thought that Starbuck was originally hoping that his assistant manager, former Oldham Athletic and Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gary Kelly, would return to the side in the place of Australian-born Martin, but in light of Kelly's retirement, Starbuck has headed in to the transfer market to complete the signing of 36-year old Crichton, who has been playing in the Conference for York City this season after leaving Premiership side Norwich City during the summer.

Crichton, who will probably be best remembered for a three year spell with Grimsby Town which saw him make more than 130 appearances for the Mariners on his way to clocking up more than 400 Football League appearances, is set to make his debut between the sticks for RMI in Saturday's home game against Stevenage Borough.