The gun defender only started a handful of games for Tolland after coming across from Coalville Town FC and securing international clearance in May but became a mainstay of the Wolves’ improving back line alongside stand-in skipper Richard Skidmore.

Follows impressed Tolland coach Daniel Lawrence with a string of good performances through June and would have featured in Tolland’s likely run to the finals had employment opportunities not arisen back home.

“Jack found out he’d been offered a job as a prison guard back in the UK last Friday and he said was too good to refuse,” Lawrence said.

“It’s something he’s wanted to do for ages.”

Lawrence said Follows had notified him of his decision to head back to the UK and addressed his team mates after last weekend’s 4-3 loss to Leeton.

It’s a disappointing outcome for second-placed Tolland but the first-year coach is confident his squad has the depth to cover Follows’ departure.

”He basically came in and told the boys after the game that he was heading home,” Lawrence said.

“It’s not an ideal situation but we’ve got a lot of depth this year and we won’t be too concerned.”

Defence remains the Wolves’ priority with Lawrence conceding his side are “leaking a few more goals” than desirable, however, Follows’ departure opens the door for former Boomers FC back man Domenic Bertazzo to cement his spot in Tolland’s starting side.

Bertazzo got his first taste of Pascoe Cup football during their 4-0 win over Junee earlier this month and will get first dibs when the Wolves travel to Young this weekend.

“Dom came over from Albury and he’s played a little bit of first grade with us now, so he should slide into that defensive role,” Lawrence said.

”He’s a rock solid player … and I don’t think we’re losing anything with him in the side.”

Tolland’s attacking mind-set sets up an intriguing clash with Young and Lawrence is conscious his opponents miserly defence.

“Hopefully we can start quickly and get a few early goals,” Lawrence said.