Sam Gilbert joins David Armitage at MPNFL club Bonbeach

There were two major signings in local football tonight as clubs continue to build their lists for the 2021 season.

Sam Gilbert playing for the Saints in 2018. Pic: Michael Klein

Sam Gilbert had been linked with Mordialloc for a few weeks.

Instead he’ll line up with neighbouring Bonbeach, in the Mornington Peninsula Nepean league.

The Sharks confirmed tonight that they had signed former St Kilda defender Gilbert, 34, extending their Saintly link.

David Armitage was already a key recruit for the Sharks, who are also home to Trent Dennis-Lane and St Kilda favourite Justin Peckett.

Peckett is coaching the club’s Under 19s.

Gilbert had trained at Mordialloc, which also has a St Kilda connection in assistant coach Rob Eddy.

But Mordi were disappointed yesterday when Gilbert told them he’d instead be going to Bonbeach.

He last played football in 2019, a short stint in the VFL with Sandringham.

The rangy left-footer had 208 matches with the Saints from 2006-18 after being drafted from Queensland.

“At 194cm ‘Gilbo’ adds another tall option and will look to provide support needed to our younger developing ruck and key position players,’’ Bonbeach said tonight.

“Testament to the club’s direction and football program, Sam adds another layer to what is shaping as a side worth watching in 2021.’’

Sam Gilbert on the training track.

Meanwhile, Southern league club Caulfield Bears has also made a notable signing, locking in Dale Lappin from East Geelong.

He was previously with Dederang-Mount Beauty Bombers in the Tallangatta and District Football League, and the Murray Magpies in the Hume Football League, and has won three senior best and fairests.

The Bears said he would “add a lot of midfield grunt and class’’ to their line-up.

Caulfield has also locked in Goulburn Valley forward and former Box Hill Hawks reserves player James Sullivan, and everything points to it putting up a strong challenge to Springvale District in Division 2.