DINO Maamria's on-off transfer to Conference relegation rivals Stevenage Borough has finally gone through.

Last week the former Tunisia Under 21 international at RMI top scorer turned down an offer from Borough and Leigh manager Mark Patterson thought he would be able to keep Maamria until he was due to leave for America at the end of the season.

Patterson said: "I was delighted when Dino turned down Stevenage and pledged his future to the club. However, later in the week he told the club that Stevenage had made an improved offer he would find hard to turn down.

"Personally I couldn't blame him because the offer was exceptional for such a short term contract," continued Patterson. "I'd have loved to have kept him but I don't want to hang on to a player whose mind is elsewhere. I wish him all the best for the future."

Patterson has been quick to act to strengthen his squad. He said: "Dino has gone but the club is moving forward with two new signings. Money from the transfer has allowed us to sign forward Keith Scott from Scarborough. Neil Campbell will also be joining us on loan from Scarborough until the end of the season."

Patterson added: "Campbell, who is known to RMI supporters from previous visits to Hilton Park, is a wholehearted player. He will bring a strong presence to the front line, something which has been missing since I've been here.

"Our attacking line-up hasn't scored more than one goal in a Conference game since November 2. In that time the team has only scored six goals in the last 13 games. Centre forward Keith Scott who is 6' 3" will be a fantastic asset and add another dimension to our attacking force."