Holbeach United have lost joint players’ player of the year Joe Braithwaite to lower graded Harrowby United – and boss Seb Hayes admits that there was nothing he could do to stop it happening.
Key defender Braithwaite, who had announced his intention to stay with the Tigers on social networking site Twitter, was tempted to join ChromaSport UCL Divsion One side Harrowby after receiving what Hayes calls an “unbelievable offer.”
The Arrows have offered to double the ex-Sleaford Town ace’s money and give hims added bonuses, leaving Hayes licking his wounds.
“I thought we had Joe for next season,” said the Tigers boss. “But he’s had an unbelievable offer from Harrowby and there’s nothing I can do.
“I told Joe he should take the money. To be offered three figures and bonuses is crazy money.
“There’s no hard feelings, he’s got to go there for that money.
“I know he was torn between taking the offer and staying, but we’ve lost him now.”
Braithwaite’s exit follows hot on the heels of Hayes’ decision to allow midfielder Joe Smith to leave Carter’s Park.
He’s agreed a deal with former club Sleaford Town and joins Mitch Griffiths and George Zuerner in leaving the club this summer.
Hayes has snapped up striker Josh Ford and has reached an agreement with an as yet unamned winger.
