Spalding United have moved decisively to strengthen an already commanding promotion push, completing a triple signing that underlines both ambition and depth at Sir Halley Stewart Field.
With the Tulips setting the pace in the Southern League Premier Central, the arrival of Tom Pugh, Saleem Akanbi and Josh Taroni represents a significant statement of intent from one of Lincolnshire’s standout non-league success stories this season.
Local non-league football often lives hand to mouth, reacting rather than planning. What Spalding United have done over the past week is the opposite. Sitting top of the table and playing with authority, they have added quality, youth and experience across midfield, defence and attack, reinforcing a squad that already looks well equipped for the run-in.
Tom Pugh
Midfielder Tom Pugh arrives on loan from FC Halifax Town with a strong grounding in senior football. A product of the academies at Leeds United and Scunthorpe United, Pugh brings Football League experience that is rarely seen at Step Three level. Comfortable centrally or on the right, he offers energy, intelligence and adaptability, qualities that fit neatly into Spalding’s high tempo approach. His recent spell at Spennymoor Town ensured match sharpness, while his Wales Under-21 experience adds another layer of pedigree.
Saleem Akanbi
In the final third, the permanent signing of Saleem Akanbi from Bishop’s Stortford adds pace and power to the Tulips’ attacking options. Still a 20-year-old, Akanbi has already built a varied CV, progressing through Cambridge United’s academy before gaining senior minutes across several non league loans. His recent impact at Hemel Hempstead Town highlighted his ability to change games, whether starting or from the bench, and his physical profile gives Spalding a different dimension in the final third.
Josh Taroni
At the back, the loan arrival of Josh Taroni from Burton Albion looks a shrewd piece of business. A modern left-wing back, Taroni combines athleticism with technical assurance and arrives fresh from a breakthrough year that saw him named Burton’s Young Player of the Season. His experience across league and cup competitions, despite being just 18, belies his age and gives Spalding valuable flexibility down the left side.
Taken together, this is more than three isolated signings. It is a clear signal that Spalding United are thinking beyond simply maintaining their lead. With a commanding goal difference and a points buffer at the summit, the Tulips have chosen to press home their advantage rather than protect it.
For local non-league football, this matters. Spalding’s rise is not built on short-term gambles but on smart recruitment, strong leadership and an understanding of what is required to win consistently at this level. If promotion does arrive, it will feel earned rather than opportunistic. As the season enters its decisive phase, Spalding United look every inch a club in control of their own destiny, strengthened, confident and unapologetically aiming higher.