Former Lincoln City striker Bruno Andrade has been sensationally sacked by AFC Rushden & Diamonds after an altercation with a teammate during a crucial Northern Premier League Midlands Division fixture.
Rushden were hunting vital points in a play-off battle and were facing lowly Loughborough Students, who languish in the bottom four. Three points would have put the Diamonds within touching distance of the top six, but events in the 15th minute changed the course of the afternoon completely.
Loughborough took a surprise lead from a free kick, but there was still plenty of time left in the game. However, an altercation between former Lincoln City striker Bruno Andrade and fellow striker Tyler Winters resulted in both players being sent off.
With nine men, Diamonds were left to battle and scrap but eventually fell to a 3-0 defeat, a hugely damaging result with just seven games left of the regular season and one that severely impacts their chances of reaching the play-offs.
Diamonds have now taken strong action against the pair. In a statement they said:
“AFC Rushden and Diamonds can confirm that following an on-field altercation during yesterday’s fixture against Loughborough students, the clubs informed Bruno Andrade and Tyler Winters that they will not be selected for the remainder of the 25-26 season and are free to pursue opportunities with other clubs.
“The actions seen during the incident do not reflect the standards we expect of those representing AFC Rushton and Diamonds. As a fan-owned, community-driven club, we have a responsibility to uphold these standards and to act when they are not met. We would like to place on record our thanks to both players for their efforts this season and recognise the contribution they have made to the club’s performances. However, on this occasion, the issue extends beyond on-pitch contribution.
“The decision has been made following internal review and in consultation with the first team management, while also taking into account feedback from our supporters. We recognise that football is an emotional game, but incidents of this nature require clear and considered response in order to protect the integrity and reputation of the club.
“The club will be making no further comment at this time.”
Andrade is best known by Lincoln City supporters for the role he played in the 2018-19 promotion season, during which he secured a PFA Player of the Month award. However, his time at the club was not without controversy. He was sent off in a 2-2 draw against Swindon Town, the first of two Lincoln players to be dismissed that day, with City having led 2-0 before being pegged back to a draw.
The following season, after Michael Appleton arrived, Andrade became more of a bit-part player, but he still produced memorable moments, most notably a stunning goal against Everton in the League Cup. At one stage, he was even linked with a move to Aston Villa following his performances, but he eventually left the club for Salford City and has experienced a slow and steady decline since then.
It is unlikely to be the end of the road for Andrade, who has also made a name plying his trade in the Baller League. Winters is also in the current Baller League, but Andrade is not listed among the current players, despite being a first draft pick in 2025.
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