Eastbourne Borough can confirm the signing of Sam Beard on a month-long loan from National League Barnet.

Beard, son of Sports boss Mark, can play in defence both centrally and out wide, and is available for selection ahead of tomorrow’s National League South fixture against Bath City.

He joined Barnet on a permanent contract from Dorking Wanderers at the beginning of July 2021 after undisclosed compensation was agreed between the two clubs. He initially joined on loan from Dorking Wanderers in April 2021 and put in several extremely impressive performances during his short time with the club.

During his first spell at the club, Beard won man of the match award on his debut away to Maidenhead United, before putting in a string of consistent shows before the end of the campaign, making him a firm fan favourite. Before joining the Bees, Beard played a critical role in Dorking Wanderers’ rise through the divisions, winning two promotions in his five seasons with the Wanderers.

He’s had a strong impact on the two previous campaigns as well. He helped them into the National League South Play-offs during the 2019/20 season, before being a part of the side that was top of the league in the 2020/21 season before the campaign was declared null and void.

Sam was a virtual ever-present for the Bees last term as they finished in the National League play-off places, making 42 appearances to take his tally to 78 across all competitions for The Hive outfit.

Boss Mark Beard commented: “I’m delighted to have signed Sam for an initial one month loan.

“He will add great quality and experience to the team. He can play Centre Back and Left Back so will be invaluable to us over the coming weeks where we face six tough matches.”

Beard picked up a knock early in pre-season and joins us temporarily in a bid to regain his match fitness as Barnet push for promotion back to the Football League. Thanks to Dean Brennan and Barnet for their help in the loan.