Rainford cleared for Cup

Marine's Jamie Rainford is clear to play at Ashton United in the FA Cup's Second Qualifying Round today [Saturday] after the striker's registration was confirmed by the Football Association on Friday.

The fans' favourite made a surprise return to Evo-Stik NPL Premier Marine in midweek from FC Halifax after signing a one month loan deal.

The deal sees Rainford, 25, back at the Arriva Stadium following his transfer to Chester in May 2011 and subsequent move to FC Halifax Town in February this year. The frontman scored 28 goals for the Mariners in season 2010-11 and was the club's leading goalscorer for two seasons before his move to the Deva Stadium.

Marine drew 2-2 with Kendal in the league hours after Rainford signed for the club at lunchtime on Tuesday flanked by Secretary Richard Cross and Chairman Paul Leary, pictured.