HATCH BACK

Originally published: 14th July 2010

Mark Cooper has clinched his second signing of the summer, with former striker Liam Hatch joining on loan from Peterborough United.

The 6ft 3ins forward, who scored nine goals for Darlington in 26 league games while on loan during the 2008-09 season, has joined the Quakers from League One side Posh until January.

Cooper said: “I’ve been waiting patiently to bring in some quality players so we’re delighted get Hatchy in.

“We’re trying to bring in the right kind of people. There’s no point rushing out there to bring in ordinary players who won’t improve the squad, we want quality signings and Hatchy certainly fits into that criteria.

"He’s proven at this level as well as at a higher level and he’ll complement Tommy Wright, Chris Senior, Curtis Main and Michael Smith.

“We’re still looking to bring in another two or three. We’re looking at defenders as we do think we’re short in that area, and we’ll hopefully have some new son that front fairly soon.

Born in Hitchin, Hatch began his career with non-league Kent sides Ramsgate and signed for Gravesend and Northfleet in 2001, winning the Isthmian League Premier Division in his debut season.

The 28-year-old joined Barnet in 2003 and helped them win the Conference in 2005, scoring 29 goals from 163 games during five seasons, before Peterborough paid £150,000 for him in January 2008.

He spent the 2008-09 campaign on loan at the Northern Echo Arena and last season with Conference side Luton, scoring four goals in 22 games.

Liam Hatch scores in a Darlo shirt