Aspirations of National League football is getting closer for Chatham Town. The ten times Kent champions have made progress over the last seven years. The Chats won promotion in 2022 and the Isthmian South East title a year later. In their debut Isthmian Premier campaign they finished runners up losing in the playoff final. The Chats were unable to replicate their performance until last season where they fell short in the playoffs again.
2025/2026 Season Isthmian Premier: 4th F.A Cup: 1st Round F.A Trophy: 5th Round County Cup: Semi-Final League Cup: 4th Round Top League Scorer: Tope Fadahunsi and Sam Sene-Richardson (11 goals)
Chatham Town were formidable against teams in the lower half of the table. They had a perfect record versus teams that finished in the bottom eight and dropped just two points over those in the bottom ten. Their patchy form when playing teams in the top half hindered their chances of a higher finish, but fourth place still earned them a playoff spot.
Manager – Kevin Hake
Winner of the Isthmian Premier League Manager of the Season award in 2024, Kevin Hake led the Chats to the playoff final. He took over as Chairman nine years ago after Chatham Town were relegated to the Southern Counties East. When football resumed after Covid, Hake became manager. He won consecutive promotions and came close to a third in a row before a top ten finish and another playoff appearance.
Summer Transfer
A statement signing was made when Jimmy Wild was announced as a Chat. The striker moves from Chichester City where he had been prolific in front of goal before last season’s serious injury. Brad Stevenson knows his around the National Leagues and joins from Solihull Moors. Coming down from the division above, Ben Coker moves from Ebbsfleet United. Harry Lodovica remains in the Isthmian Premier after securing a switch from Whitehawk. Ollie Hobden (Charlton Athletic) and Eitel Goueth (Sheepey United) have also signed for Chatham Town,
Wild looks like he will be the main man up front with the departures of joint top scorers Sam Sene-Richardson, who has hit the big time by joining Premier League Brentford, and Tope Fadahunsi to Carshalton Athletic. Former Dartford loanee, Matty Macarthur has joined playoff winners Billericay Town. Henry Molyneux (Cray Wanderers) and Kofi Anoke-Boadi (Leatherhead) remain in the Isthmian Premier. Kasim Aidoo is now at Farnborough and Will Samways at Phoenix Sports. Nile Ranger and Bernie Tanner were released by the Chats.
Dartford 3 – 2 Chatham Town (06/04/2024 – Isthmian Premier) Chatham Town 1 – 2 Dartford (27/12/2025 – Isthmian Premier) Chatham Town 0 – 2 Dartford (01/01/2025 – Isthmian Premier) Dartford 3 – 1 Chatham Town (26/08/2024 – Isthmian Premier) Dartford 1 – 3 Chatham Town (09/04/2007 – Isthmian Division One South) Chatham Town 2 – 3 Dartford (26/12/2006 – Isthmian Division One South)
Next Meetings
Dartford v Chatham Town – Monday 31st August 2026 Chatham Town v Dartford – Saturday 2nd January 2027
Statistics
Dartford have won six of the last seven league meetings against Chatham Town (L1) and are on a winning streak of four against their Kent rivals
The Darts have won three of their last four in the league at home versus the Chats (L1). Last season’s home win completed a league double over Chatham Town for a second campaign in a row.
Dartford have won their last three away matches against Chatham Town
The Isthmian Leagues wouldn’t be the same without Carshalton Athletic, who have spent just two seasons away since being elected as founder members. Those couple of seasons were the very beginning of the National South. The Robins returned to the Isthmian Premier and in 2014 they fell further. However, Carshalton Athletic were back four years later with a title and promotion. Since then they have stayed put and this season will be their ninth consecutive in this division.
2025/2026 Season Isthmian Premier: 19th F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round F.A Trophy: 3rd Qualifying Round County Cup: 1st Round League Cup: 3rd Round Top League Scorer: Bryan Sharon Ifeanyi (11 goals)
A final day survival was achieved with victory over St Albans City to keep the Robins up. In February, Peter Adeniyi resigned as manager with the club a point clear of the drop. The new boss, Steve Bates lost his first three league games leaving the Robins in the bottom four. March became the turning point and from then until the end of the season, Carshalton Athletic collected points in all but two fixtures.
Manager – Steve Bates
Taking on a difficult challenge for a first managerial role, Steve Bates kept Carshalton Athletic in the Isthmian Premier. Previous a coach with years of experience, Bates was at National League side Wealdstone. He also had a spell as assistant and caretaker manager at Hampton and Richmond Borough.
Summer Transfers
Former Dartford goalkeeper, Ben Dudzinski arrives from Havant and Waterlooville. The 30 year-old came through Carshalton Athletic’s youth system and played for the Darts in 2022/2023 making 13 appearances. Also moving from Kent, Tope Fadahunsi joins from Chatham Town. Ethan Kaiser has also signed for the Robins from Brentwood Town.
Luke Read has gone the other way to Brentwood Town. The impressive Bryan Sharon Ifeanyi makes the step up to National League side Forest Green Rovers. Kola Salami moves up one division by joining Dover Athletic. Tommy Bradford also departs Carshalton Athletic having joined Merstham.
Carshalton Athletic v Dartford – Saturday 12th September 2026 Dartford v Carshalton Athletic – Saturday 13th March 2027
Statistics
Dartford have just one of their last seven against Carshalton Athletic (W4, D2)
Last season, the Darts became the first home side to win this fixture in the tenth meeting between the two sides (Total – Home wins 1, Draws 4, Away wins 6)
Dartford are unbeaten in all six away games versus Carshalton Athletic (W4, D2)
Either side of the millennium, Burgess Hill Town were the team to beat in the Sussex League. The Hillians claimed five league titles in seven years, twice finishing runners up in that period. Eventually they got out of county level for a campaign in the Southern League, then moved over into the Isthmian. The Hillians stormed to the Division One South title in 2015 with over a century of points and goals. However, they struggled in the years leading up to Covid and were relegated to step four of non-league. It took them four more full campaigns to return to the Premier, winning the 2025 Isthmian Division One South East playoff final.
2025/2026 Season Isthmian Premier: 8th F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round F.A Trophy: 1st Round County Cup: 2nd Round League Cup: Quarter-Final Top League Scorer: George Vorster (15 goals)
The Hillians took a couple of months to get to grips with the Isthmian Premier despite winning their opening two matches. An entertaining 3-3 draw at Princes Park was the beginning of a solid run. Burgess Hill Town lost just once in 11 outings lifting them from 18th to eighth. From then on, the Hillians were consistently on the playoff periphery. Only four sides conceded more goals than the Sussex side and that cost them the points they required.
Manager – Gary Mansell
Last season Gary Mansell was half of a managerial partnership with Jay Lovett. This season Mansell is going solo after Lovett’s appointment at Whitehawk. In April last year Mansell was also given the role of Director of Football. He already has experience in that role having previously worked for the Russell Martin Foundation. The Hillians boss will continue has committed to first team duties again and will be hoping to push the Sussex club into the playoffs.
Summer Transfers
Defender, Luther Williams will be at Burgess Hill Town. He left Dartford this summer after making 72 appearances for the club. Arriving from National South champions, Nicky Wheeler will bring experience to Leylands Park. Luca Cocoracchio and Shamir Fenlon move down a division from Dover Athletic and Horsham respectively.
Remaining in Sussex Joel Daly joins from Whitehawk. After relegation with Hashtag United last term, Josh Rusoke will also be a Hillian. Brad Berry (Hastings United) and Yoan Marc-Oliver (Harrow Borough) both make the step up.
Three players have departed Leylands Park and remain in the Isthmian Premier. Bobby Price joins newly promoted Leatherhead. Josh Spinks leaves after a season to go to Lewes. Kaan Bennett moves to Kent to sign for Welling United. Alex Malins has also left the club.
Head to Head
Dartford wins: 7 / Burgess Hill Town wins: 2 / Draws: 1
Previous Six Meetings
Burgess Hill Town 2 – 1 Dartford (24/01/2006 – Isthmian Premier) Dartford 3 – 3 Burgess Hill Town (30/09/2025 – Isthmian Premier) Burgess Hill Town 0 – 1 Dartford (14/10/2017 – F.A Cup) Burgess Hill Town 1 – 2 Dartford (10/01/2015 – F.A Trophy) Dartford 3 – 1 Burgess Hill Town (25/10/2014 – F.A Cup) Dartford 7 – 2 Burgess Hill Town (13/01/2007 – Isthmian Division One South)
Next Meetings
Burgess Hill Town v Dartford – Saturday 29th August 2026 Dartford v Burgess Hill Town – Saturday 12th December 2026
Statistics
The Darts are unbeaten at home in the league against the Hillians (W2, D1)
Dartford lost away in the league for the first against Burgess Hill Town last season ending a perfect record of four away wins out of four in all competitions
The last four league games between the two sides have averaged 6.25 goals per game (Dartford 17 Burgess Hill Town 8)
A decade ago, Brentwood Town were promoted to the Isthmian Premier League where they stayed for just one season. The Blues had two near misses in the playoffs of 2022 and 2024. Those disappointments were soon forgotten when they won the Isthmian Division One North title just over a year ago. Last season they were back and this time they almost left the division again, but at the right end. The Blues managed to keep their winning mentality and took the Isthmian Premier by surprise. Reaching another playoff and almost making it consecutive promotions, Brentwood Town had a great campaign last time out.
2025/2026 Season Isthmian Premier: 5th F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round F.A Trophy: 2nd Round County Cup: 4th Round League Cup: 3rd Round Top League Scorer: Daniel Ogunleye (20 goals)
On the opening day Brentwood were welcomed to the division with a local away day at relegated Aveley. A draw gave the Blues confidence and a brilliant run of eight consecutive wins made everyone take note. Dartford brought that run to an end in October with a draw. Then they suffered four defeats in six, people wondered how long the Essex club would last at the top. Aside from another patchy spell in January, Brentwood Town need not worry. The Blues were consistent enough to win a playoff place. Two Essex derbies saw them beat Aveley, then lose the final to Billericay Town after extra time.
Manager – Keith Rowland
Former West Ham United defender, Keith Rowland played for the likes of AFC Bournemouth and Queens Park Rangers to name a few. Adding to his playing experience he won 19 international caps for Northern Ireland too. Rowland’s coaching career began at Braintree Town. He went into management with Wingate and Finchley in 2016, where he recorded the club’s highest finish on two occasions. Spells followed at Aveley and Tilbury before his current role at Brentwood Town.
Summer Transfers
The issue with be so successful after promotion is your best players will be picked up in the transfer market. It’s testament to what Rowland has built and this summer he has been building again. Three new signings won promotion out of the Isthmian Premier last season. Mikey Berry arrives from champions Folkestone Invicta, Tommy Davis and Ben Steward have been signed from Billericay Town.
Harry Seaden will be the new man between the sticks after his switch from Cray Wanderers. Nat Mardell moves from Isthmian Premier newcomers Stanway Rovers and Sid Walker comes in from Grays Athletic. The Blues also added Malachi Linton from AFC Totton, Harry Gibbs from National South playoff winners Hornchurch and Charlee Adams from Chelmsford City.
Replacing the goals of Daniel Ogunleye will be a challenge, the striker earned a move to Ebbsfleet United. Also, on the up, Alejandro Machado is now at Folkestone Invicta and Kymani Thomas at Dagenham and Redbridge.
Former Dartford legend, Lee Noble leaves the Blues for Heybridge Swifts. Ade Cole (AFC Whyteleafe), Charlie Edwards (St Albans City) and Ethan Kaiser (Carshalton Athletic) remain in the Isthmian Premier. Jon Nzengo has departed and joined Tilbury.
This time two years ago Aveley reached their peak finishing seventh in the National South. In their debut season they made the playoffs losing out in the eliminator round, but set their highest ever finish. Leading up to their record breaking season, the Essex club had won consecutive promotions under Danny Scopes, so momentum was on their side. Then second season syndrome hit and they were relegated, bottom of the pile and returned to the Isthmian Premier. The Millers almost bounced back immediately last term, but fell short in the playoffs.
2025/2026 Season Isthmian Premier: 2nd F.A Cup: 4th Qualifying Round F.A Trophy: 3rd Qualifying Round County Cup: Semi-Final League Cup: 4th Round Top League Scorer: Ollie Peters (14 goals)
Aveley took a couple of months to get their promotion push going. Perhaps, adapting to a new manager after a relegation season the Millers needed time. A 1-1 draw with Dartford at the end of September was the start of a four month unbeaten league run spanning 16 games. The Millers went from 11th to fourth and within in a couple more matches reached second where they remained. Hoping to reel in champions Folkestone Invicta, the Essex club couldn’t make up the ground then eventually lost in the playoff semi-final.
Manager – Brett Munyard
Brett Munyard started off his managerial career at White Ensign. In his time with Ensign he guided them promotion from Step 7 to Step 5. He then moved to Brightlingsea Regent in November 2021 and managed to steer them to survival in the Isthmian Premier. Most recently Munyard moved from Regent to Maldon & Tiptree before becoming manager of the Millers in the summer of 2025.
Summer Transfers
Some of Aveley’s transfer dealings have involved former Dartford players. Eddie Dsane had two seasons at the Darts and scored 27 goals. Having been used as a substitute under Adrian Pennock last season, Dsane felt it was time to move on despite a new manager arriving at Princes Park this summer.
Malachi Napa played under Alan Dowson in the 2022/2023 campaign and made 22 appearances for Dartford. The winger joins Aveley from Isthmian North champions Maldon and Tiptree.
Louis Dunne was part of the Dartford side that made the playoffs featuring 24 times in 2024/2025. The midfielder originally signed for Aveley, then Chelmsford City came calling with a player coach role that he accepted.
Giovanni Palmer joins from Dulwich Hamlet and Max Booth from Peterborough Sports. Ellis Bates impressed on trial during pre-season and has earned a permanent deal from Stevenage.
Ex-Dart, Liam Nash departs the Millers and teams up again with former Dartford manager Steve King at Eastbourne Borough. Jesse Nwabueze will be featuring for King’s Lynn Town. Tobi Tinubu and Ryan Charles have also departed the Millers.
A phoenix club rebuilt just five years ago, AFC Whyteleafe has had nothing but success on their way to the Isthmian Premier. Starting from the Surrey South Eastern Combination, they were promoted in their debut as runners up. After a year consolidating in the division above, Leafe won consecutive titles, reached Wembley in the F.A Vase before last season’s playoff triumph made it back-to-back-to-back promotions. As a measure of the club’s progress they will be sharing ground with Cray Wanderers this season at Flamingo Park.
2025/2026 Season Isthmian South East: 4th F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round F.A Trophy: 1st Qualifying Round County Cup: Quarter-Final League Cup: 3rd Round Top League Scorer: Moses Emmanuel (21 goals)
At the end of September, AFC Whyteleafe entered the playoff places and never fell out. The Surrey side racked up the second highest number of goals reaching 109 in the league. Results included two 8-0 victories, a 6-0 win and a 5-0 opening day triumph. However, it wasn’t as easy in the playoffs and they had to battle past third place Jersey Bulls and runners up AFC Croydon Athletic. On both occasions AFC Whyteleafe held their nerve winning on penalties to earn another promotion.
Manager – Ennio Gonnella
In 2021, Kelly Waters founded AFC Whyteleafe and then went on to manage the club for four years. When the now Chairman made way he promoted Ennio Gonnella from his position as assistant manager. Gonnella had two previous spells with Kent Football United and a stint at FC Elmstead before joining the Leafe and guided them to a third consecutive promotion in his first campaign.
Summer Transfers
A debut season in the Isthmian Premier can be daunting, but AFC Whyteleafe are not content to just make up the numbers. Over the summer the Surrey side have signed some experienced players who know this level. Matty Warren and Francis Mampolo arrive from National South side Tonbridge Angels. Montel McKenzie won the Isthmian Premier title last season and joins from Folkestone Invicta.
Ade Cole was part of the Brentwood Town that came so close to another promotion last term. Making a step up from Sheppey United is Dami Olorunnisomo.
Head to Head
No previous meetings
Next Meetings
AFC Whyteleafe v Dartford – Saturday 17th October 2026 Dartford v AFC Whyteleafe – Saturday 17th April 2027
Statistics
Dartford lost just one game against newly promoted sides last season (W2, D3)
The Darts have never played AFC Whyteleafe, but did win both meetings against the folded club Whyteleafe in the Isthmian Division One South during the 2006/2007 campaign
AFC Whyteleafe will be one of three new opponents this season for Dartford
Ben Greenhalgh’s first proper look at his squad of players will be against Championship side Charlton Athletic. A common fixture in Dartford’s warm up to a new campaign, the Darts have hosted the Addicks in the last five years. In the seven Princes Park friendlies against the London side, Dartford have lost the lot. A year ago the score was 3-2 to Nathan Jones’ team. Callum Jones levelled after Daniel Kanu put the visitors in front. Greg Docherty restored Charlton Athletic’s lead, but Samir Carruthers netted from the spot. The winner came from Micah Mbick.
Dartford v Ebbsfleet United – Tuesday 7th July
Olly Box will not have to wait long for his return to Princes Park. No doubt it will be strange to see the forward in the red of Ebbsfleet United. The last three friendlies against the Fleet have ended in draws. Carruthers and Jones were on the scoresheet again 12 months ago as it finished 2-2. The Fleet missed out on the National South playoffs last season on goal difference.
Folkestone Invicta v Dartford – Saturday 11th July
Dartford’s first away friendly will be against Isthmian Premier champions Folkestone Invicta. On their way to the title Invicta were one of three teams to win at Princes Park in the league. The return fixture finished all square with a Callum Jones putting Dartford ahead twice only for Nathan Paul-Lavaly and Joe Pigott to level. The Darts have won the last three friendlies without conceding. Ben Greenhalgh scored in the previous one as the Darts won 2-0.
Sutton Athletic v Dartford – Tuesday 14th July
A youthful Dartford side featuring Ebou Adams started in the last friendly against Sutton Athletic, which the Darts won 4-0 in 2013. The Southern Counties East Premier division side finished ninth last season and begin their fourth campaign at step five. Away fans travelling the very short distance may bump into former Dartford goalkeeper, Deren Ibrahim who is now Chairman of the club.
Whitstable Town v Dartford – Saturday 18th July
The Darts travel to the Southern Counties East Premier champions Whitstable Town, a side who return to the Isthmian Division One South East after four years away. Now managed by Lee Martin, the 2025 F.A Vase winners will be Dartford’s penultimate hosts in the pre-season schedule. The Darts won 4-0 in a 2008 friendly with Lee Noble on the scoresheet. In competitive football Dartford have won the last two games 6-1 both in the Kent Senior Cup, the most recent in the delayed 2020 final.
Dartford v Billericay Town – Tuesday 21st July
Back at Princes Park, Dartford take on Isthmian Premier playoff winners Billericay Town. The previous pre-season meeting was just three years ago when the Essex side won 1-0. Over recent seasons this fixture has had a competitive edge. Two years ago both sides were challenging for the Isthmian Premier title with the home side winning 4-0 in both fixtures. Last term Dartford drew 1-1 at home with Olly Box scoring, but lost 3-1 on the road.
Faversham Town v Dartford – Saturday 25th July
A repeat of a pre-season warm up match from last summer, Dartford drew 0-0 a year ago. Greenhalgh will know about the Lilywhites as they finished one place and a point below Margate, just outside the playoff places. Steve Watt is the new man in charge at Faversham and he will have promotion ambitions. Dartford fans may recall meetings with the coastal club in the early to mid-nineties Kent League days.
Dartford v Chelmsford City – Tuesday 28th July
The history and club size of these two clubs are comparable and that has led to a little rivalry over the years. Post World War Two through to the nineties this was a permanent fixture in the Southern League. After Dartford’s decline it took a while for the clubs to renew that rivalry in the National South. The Clarets are a bogey side for the Darts. Since the millennium, Dartford have won seven to Chelmsford City’s 16 with only six draws. Good job this fixture is just a friendly.
Dartford v Ashford United – Saturday 1st August
One final warm up before the new season starts will give Greenhalgh his last chance to look at the squad in action before the opening game. Two years ago, the Darts won in a friendly against the Isthmian South East side. Olly Box, Callum Jones and Ashdon Day scored the goals that day in a 3-1 win. Ashford United came ninth last season but still smashed in 92 goals in the process.
Dartford conclude their Isthmian Premier season with a Kent derby against Cray Valley Paper Mills at Princes Park this weekend.
The Darts will be disappointed Saturday’s fixture only has consequences for their opponents. Adrian Pennock’s side failed to take their playoff hopes to the final day. The Millers need victory to potentially avoid relegation.
Dartford’s Hopes Dashed
A draw was not enough last time out for Dartford, who are now guaranteed a sixth place finish. Despite extending an unbeaten run to eight, results elsewhere meant the Darts fell short and will spend a third campaign in the Isthmian Premier.
Pennock stuck to the same starting eleven that won the previous two against Chatham Town and Canvey Island for their visit to mid-table Chichester City. The Darts fell behind when Isaac Bello scored for the hosts. However, the visitors were level through Joe Tennent.
Dan Smith was forced off with an injury and Eddie Dsane entered the fray before the break. The substitute put Dartford in front in the second half, his 15th goal of the season. Just like the away draw a fortnight earlier at Carshalton Athletic, the Darts conceded late when Joseph Clarke equalised. The curtain came down on Dartford’s playoff hopes with confirmation that both Brentwood Town and Chatham Town won their games.
Lifeline for Millers
Meanwhile, Cray Valley Paper Mills gave themselves a lifeline with a draw at home against champions Folkestone Invicta last weekend. The Millers have to claim maximum points this time and rely on other results to maintain their step three status.
Position
Team
Pld
Pts
GD
18
Hashtag United
41
42
-26
19
Carshalton Athletic
41
41
-13
20
Cray Valley Paper Mills
41
39
-27
Victory for Cray Valley Paper Mills will give them a shot of staying up. The Kent side will also need Carshalton Town to lose at home to tenth place St Albans City. Should that game finish level, goal difference hugely favours the Robins and Cray Valley Paper Mills will face the drop.
To finish outside the relegation zone, Kevin Lisbie’s side also need Hashtag United to lose at home to ninth place Dulwich Hamlet. However, with the Tags requesting voluntary relegation, the Millers may only need to leapfrog Carshalton Athletic to earn a reprieve.
A Princes Park Playoff Classic
Princes Park could be set for some drama once again in this fixture, even if it’s at the wrong end of the table this time. Almost a year ago, the Darts were on the verge of losing a playoff semi final before Sam Odaudu scored a last gasp free-kick to take the tie into extra time. Dartford prevailed 4-3 in the end to finish Cray Valley Paper Mills debut campaign in the Isthmian Premier.
The visitors had taken a two goal lead with a brace from Danny Waldren. Then with twenty minutes to go, an off the ball incident in the penalty box saw Crossley Lema sent off. Samir Carruthers netted the spot kick to give Dartford hope of a comeback. That hope was realised with seconds remaining when Odaudu levelled. In extra time, Hayden Bullas and George Whitefield moved the Darts clear. Yet there was still time for a tense finale after Adam Coombes pulled a goal back.
The reverse fixture this season was less dramatic. A former Dart denied Pennock’s side maximum points in a 1-1 draw back in November. Dan Smith opened the scoring, but his goal was cancelled out by Rowan Liburd. The striker played three times for Dartford during the 2019/2020 season.
The previous league meeting at Princes Park between the two teams also finished level last term. No one was able to break the deadlock in a goalless draw, which turned out to be the first game of Dartford’s record equalling 21 match unbeaten run.
Dartford’s Joe Tennent could potentially stand in the way of his former club. On the other side four ex Darts could help lead the Millers to safety. As well as the aforementioned Liburd, Fumnaya Shomotun, Sanchez Ming and Chris Dickson have all had spells at Princes Park too.
Cray Valley’s Final Push
All four were involved in Cray Valley’s 1-1 draw versus Folkestone Invicta last weekend. The Millers desperate for points to increase their chances of staying up went in front when Alfie Newby scored just past the hour. Lisbie’s side were denied victory in the final minute conceding to a Ben Mason goal. Had the Millers held on, then they would have just needed to better Carshalton Athletic’s result this Saturday. Instead the Kent side need a win against the Darts to stand a chance of survival.
Steve McKimm departed Cray Valley Paper Mills in February with the club one point from safety. Since Kevin Lisbie was appointed the Millers are still within range thanks largely to the last month of results.
Back to back wins over St Albans City and Ramsgate aided their chances of survival. Although the Millers lost a local derby with Cray Wanderers on Easter Monday, they picked up two more points with draws at Hashtag United and at home last weekend.
Manager’s View
Adrian Pennock is disappointed he couldn’t lead the Darts to this season’s playoffs, but doesn’t put it all down to one game. The Dartford boss gave an interview to www.dartfordfc.com and said: “We’ve been great over the past 10 games and finished the season so strongly as one of the most inform teams. But we can’t blame one match. We should have finished in the play-off places and should have already been up there.”
After a slow start to the campaign, suspensions, injuries and poor away form cost the Darts in the end. At Princes Park this weekend, a win could see Dartford top the home form table, Pennock added: “Our form at the beginning of the season wasn’t good enough. We had a hangover from losing out in the play-off final. We then had to play a host of games with nine or 10 men, had injuries to Dan Smith, Samir (Carruthers), Eddie, and the Sams (Okoye and Odaudu, to name a few”, he continued: “Then we look at our form. The home form is one of the best in the division, but our away form hasn’t been good enough”.
Team News
Dan Smith and Olly Box were substituted in the draw at Chichester City with injuries. Samir Carruthers and Dean Nayler will be out for the final game of the season.
Current League Form
Dartford (WWDWWD)
Cray Valley Paper Mills (LWWLDD)
Chichester City
A
2-2
Folkestone Invicta
H
1-1
Canvey Island
A
4-0
Hashtag United
A
1-1
Chatham Town
H
3-2
Cray Wanderers
H
1-2
Carshalton Athletic
A
2-2
Ramsgate
A
1-0
Hashtag United
H
7-0
St Albans City
H
2-0
Lewes
H
4-1
Chichester City
H
1-4
Head to Head
Dartford wins: 2 / Cray Valley Paper Mills wins: 0 / Draws: 2
Previous Meetings
Cray Valley Paper Mills 1 – 1 Dartford (22/11/2025 – Isthmian Premier) Dartford 4 – 3 Cray Valley Paper Mills (30/04/2025 – Isthmian Premier Playoff) Dartford 0 – 0 Cray Valley Paper Mills (02/11/2024 – Isthmian Premier) Cray Valley Paper Mills 1 – 2 Dartford (10/08/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Statistics
Dartford are on their longest unbeaten run in all competitions this season of eight games
The Darts will record their lowest finish in the football pyramid since 2009 when they ended up 8th in the Isthmian Premier
Dartford have gained 12 points from losing positions this season versus 22 points lost from winning positions
In the final ten minutes of games, the Darts have won five points and lost 15 points
On This Day
Dartford defended their Southern League Cup title by completing a 3-1 aggregate victory over Burton Albion on this day in 1989. A 2-0 win in Staffordshire sealed the cup for a third time in the club’s history.
The Darts bid farewell to the National League with a 0-0 draw against Lincoln City on the final day of the 2015 campaign. The Imps have just won promotion to the Championship.
Charlie Sheringham enjoyed a Kent derby brace in the penultimate game of the 2010/2011 season. The striker scored twice at home against Dover Athletic in a 4-0 victory. Tom Champion and Danny Harris scored the other two.
The race for an Isthmian Premier playoff place heats up this weekend as Dartford visit Chichester City in the penultimate game of the season.
Adrian Pennock’s side have just two matches to try and topple those above them and extend their campaign. Unbeaten in seven, the Darts are two points adrift of fifth place and one more slip up could be costly.
Chichester City are guaranteed Isthmian Premier football next term. The Sussex side can still finish inside the top ten, but they are winless in their previous three home matches.
Darts Find Form
Dartford are in the best form of their season with five wins and two draws during their current unbeaten run. The Darts have been more prolific in attack recently averaging four goals a game in their previous five outings.
Last weekend they hit already relegated Canvey Island for four. The comfortable victory preserved Dartford’s perfect away record against the Essex side in league meetings. Pennock’s team dominated from start to finish with Callum Jones opening the scoring on nine minutes. Olly Box was on the scoresheet again with his 17th goal of the season to give the Darts a two goal lead at the break. It took Jones six minutes into the second half to complete his brace and a fourth was added when Eddie Dsane slotted home.
The Darts have been on a roll since their 1-0 away win at Cheshunt just over a month ago. A decent draw on the road at champions Folkestone Invicta before brushing aside Lewes and Hashtag United back at Princes Park. The only slight blemish was conceding a last minute equaliser at Carshalton Athletic to start April. However, Dartford got through a crucial Kent derby versus Chatham Town before last weekend’s triumph.
How Can Dartford Stay in the Playoff Picture?
A Dartford win will take their chances to the final day.
A draw means the Darts will need Brentwood Town or Chatham Town to drop points in their games against already safe Cheshunt and relegated Potters Bar Town respectively.
A defeat for the Darts will require Brentwood Town to lose and realistically Chatham Town to be beaten too. Mathematically, a draw for Chatham Town will mean Pennock’s side can go level on points with the Chats on the final day, but the Darts will also need a 14 goal swing in their last two games.
Current Standings
Position
Team
Pld
Pts
GD
4
Brentwood Town
40
74
+17
5
Chatham Town
40
73
+41
6
DARTFORD
40
71
+27
7
Cray Wanderers
40
67
+11
Remaining Fixtures
Brentwood Town
Chatham Town
Dartford
Cheshunt (A) – 13th
Potters Bar (A) – 21st
Chichester City (A) – 12th
Chichester City (H) – 15th
Lewes (H) – 15th
Cray Valley (PM) (H) – 20th
Smith’s Double
Dan Smith was the difference maker earlier in the season when the Darts hosted Chichester City. The striker’s calmness and hard work paid dividends in front of goal. First, he kept his cool after being put through on goal by Jez Pinder to put the Darts ahead. Then in the second half, Smith’s endeavour resulted in another goal. After closing goalkeeper Kieran MaGee down, all Smith had to do was tap the ball into an empty net.
Stalemates
Dartford’s only previous visit to Oaklands Park ended in a 2-2 draw with the Darts squandering a two goal lead. Box opened the scoring before an own goal from Ben Pashley. In the second half the hosts fought back to earn a point. First, Ethan Prichard started the comeback, then Isaac Bello equalised.
The only other time the two sides met was when Chichester City denied the Darts a club record. Dartford were bidding to set a run of 11 straight league wins, but the streak was ended in a 0-0 draw at Princes Park.
Chichester City haven’t been able to replicate their debut campaign in the Isthmian Premier league when they took their playoff push to the final day. They lost out in the winner takes all match against Dover Athletic to finish three points shy of the top five. Although the Sussex club look set to finish mid-table, they could have a big say in this season’s playoff lineup. After this weekend’s fixture Chichester City finish the campaign away at fourth place Brentwood Town, who the Darts are aiming to chase down.
Last weekend, Chi condemned Potters Bar Town to relegation with a 1-0 win. Jimmy Wild netted the only goal of the game to end a run of three straight loses. The striker got on the end of Bello’s long throw to score the decider.
Assistant Manager’s View
Although Dartford cruised to a 4-0 win over Canvey Island on Saturday, Roland Edge described the match as tough due to the hardness of the pitch and the windy conditions. The assistant boss told Dartford FC TV: “I know we could have been out of sight by half time but the pitch, you had to be on it to believe it really”.
Despite the state of the playing surface he was pleased with how the team performed, he added: “The actual quality the boys played was very good”. Yet, Edge still feels there was room for improvement, especially in the first half, he commented: “The only thing was the boys chose wrong choices in their box. We went in 2-0, but realistically on the day that half deserved to be four or five. So we went in knowing we had a job to do in the second half”.
Now the goals are flowing, Edge has drawn experience from last season, he explained: “Points are vitally important but the goals. Last year it affected our run in, this year it’s great because the last few games we’ve topped that up, so that could be worth a point or two”.
Momentum has been growing over the past few weeks, but with two more challenges to go Edge is not expecting an easy ride, he described Chichester City as: “A very tough team, especially at home, they play the right way. They have got a good side, good players”, he continued: “We’ve just got to go to Chichester and perform again as good as we can and see where we end up”.
Samir Carruthers and Dean Nayler will be out for the rest of the season. Denzelle Olopade and Sam Okoye picked up injuries last weekend, but will hopefully be available.
Dartford 2 – 0 Chichester City (15/11/2025 – Isthmian Premier) Dartford 0 – 0 Chichester City (11/02/2025 – Isthmian Premier) Chichester City 2 – 2 Dartford (26/11/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Statistics
Dartford are unbeaten against Chichester City after three previous meetings
The Darts could go five unbeaten away games in the league for the first time this season
Dartford have scored in each of their last 11 league games including in their last six away games
Jez Pinder could make his 50th start for the club. The midfielder has made 86 appearances for the Darts, scoring 7 goals.
On This Day
Dartford set up a decisive Southern League Cup Final second leg on this day with a 1-1 home draw with Burton Albion in 1989. Defending that title, the Darts reached the halfway point level. A week later they went up to Burton and secured a 2-0 win to lift the cup again.
Last season, the Darts beat Kent rivals Dover Athletic 3-1 at Princes Park to keep their Isthmian Premier League title hops alive. Samir Carruthers, Denzelle Olopade and Josh Hill put the hosts in a commanding position before Dover’s Ruben Soares-Junior scored a consolation.
On the road, Dartford are winless in their last seven on 18 April, losing four in the league as well as two Kent Senior Cup semi-finals. The only league away point picked up in that time was the local derby versus Gravesend and Northfleet in 1992, a game that finished 1-1.
Dartford have three games to break into the playoff places starting with an away trip to already relegated Canvey Island this weekend.
The Darts kept their hopes alive with a vital victory in the Kent derby against Chatham Town on Easter Monday. The win stretched Dartford’s unbeaten run to six and narrowed the gap to fifth place to just two points.
Canvey Island were sent down on Easter Monday despite a late fightback in their Essex derby at Billericay Town. The Gulls are winless in six matches and have taken only two points in those outings.
On form Dartford are favourites this Saturday, but away from home they have beaten just one team in the current bottom eight. The Darts only have to look back to the reverse fixture against Canvey Island as a warning not to be complacent.
Old Boss Returns
Peter Taylor was in charge of the Gulls back in September and his team had lost all five leading up to their visit to Princes Park. Taylor led the Darts as Player Manager in the late eighties, seven months ago he guided Canvey Island to their first ever league point versus a Dartford side in a 2-2 draw.
The hosts got off to a terrible start conceding twice in the opening six minutes. Jonny Henly failed to hold on to a shot for Canvey’s Charlie Stimson to score. Then the goalkeeper was lobbed by Max Fiddes.
Dartford’s youngsters fought back in the second half to earn a point. George Whitefield nodded in Olly Box’s cross. Then, Box hit a low strike to equalise a couple of minutes later.
The Darts have won all their away games in the league against Canvey Island. Last term Eddie Dsane netted the decisive goal to close out 2024. Almost 15 years earlier to the day, Dartford claimed a 5-2 win with a brace from Lee Burns and goals from Jamie Coyle, Rob Haworth and Danny Harris.
Cody McDonald scored a hat-trick and got sent off in a 3-2 victory back in December 2008 and six months earlier Brendon Cass was the match winner in a 1-0 triumph.
Closing the Gap
Over the last three games Dartford have chipped away at the deficit to the playoffs a point at a time. After the 4-1 home victory against Lewes, the Darts were five points behind. A comprehensive 7-0 win versus Hashtag United and a 2-2 draw at Carshalton Athletic closed the gap further. On Easter Monday a Kent derby triumph at home to Chatham Town has left the Darts only two points adrift.
Dan the Man Again
Pennock made three changes over Easter welcoming Joe Tennent and Jacob Bland back in place of Michael Olarewaju and Dan Carter. Box also returned to the side with Evans Kouassi named on the bench.
The Darts were two up in eight minutes when they beat Chatham Town in December. This time Dan Smith opened the scoring at Princes Park with a confident finish seven minutes in to the game. A superb solo effort from Box gave the Darts a two goal cushion just before the break.
The Chats got back into the derby through Jordy Robins, but the two goal margin was restored after Smith fired home to complete his brace. There was still time for former Dart, Ben Allen to grab a consolation. However the hosts ran out 3-2 winners.
Dartford’s attack is playing with confidence after netting 16 goals in the last four games. After a series of injury setbacks earlier this season Smith has managed to get a run in the side and the striker has hit form. In his previous seven appearances the 26 year old has scored six times.
Playoff race
Maximum points for the Darts will give them a good chance of gatecrashing the top five, but they still need results elsewhere to go their way. Aveley and Billericay Town have all but booked a place in the playoffs. That leaves Dartford chasing down Chatham Town, who host almost safe Wingate and Finchley and Brentwood Town, who go to relegation threatened Carshalton Athletic.
Position
Team
Pld
Pts
GD
2
Aveley
39
77
+36
3
Billericay Town
39
75
+30
4
Brentwood Town
39
71
+15
5
Chatham Town
39
70
+37
6
DARTFORD
39
68
+23
7
Cray Wanderers
39
64
+8
8
Burgess Hill Town
39
64
-3
If results go perfectly the Darts could end the day in fourth. A win for Pennock’s side and defeats for both Chatham Town and Brentwood Town will put playoff ambitions in Dartford’s control.
A Season to Forget
Canvey Island have spent all season in the relegation zone and their only point in the opening nine games was the 2-2 draw at Princes Park. After a loss to Benfleet in the Essex Senior Cup, Peter Taylor stepped down with the Essex side on five points in 11 matches. His last two league fixtures resulted in a win and a draw. Ironically, Taylor left during what was to be the Gulls’ best spell in the Isthmian Premier, an unbeaten run of five. Garry Kimble is now in charge and with just six victories all season, the Islanders will return to the Isthmian North after four years away.
Downed by Blues
The Essex club drew consecutive games ahead of their local derby with Billericay Town last time out. The Blues took a commanding lead and with nine minutes to go were three up and almost home a dry. Goals from Charlie Ruff, Alfie Cerulli and Macauley Bonne sealed Canvey Island’s relegation. However, Kimble’s team kept going until the end and were rewarded with two goals of their own through Conor Hubble and Freddie Price.
Manager’s View
Adrian Pennock was delighted with completing a double over Chatham Town, he spoke to Dartford FC TV after the game and said: “I thought we were excellent, especially the first half. We came out on the front foot and thoroughly deserved to be two up at half-time”, he continued: “It’s a very good win, a very important win, but it hasn’t changed too much, we’re just hanging in there at the moment. It’s a good boost for our supporters and everyone connected to the football club”.
The Dartford boss admitted he had to make some difficult decisions with his selection by leaving out captain Michael Olarewaju and an in form Dan Carter. Pennock wanted to manage their minutes and use the squad available, especially as Carter also played for Leyton Orient prior the Good Friday draw with Carshalton Athletic.
There is not much room for error this weekend if the Darts want to extend their campaign. Pennock commented: “It’s got to be three points at the end of the day. We’re playing catching up and it’s always tough when you’re playing catch up. I’d rather have the points on the board”, he added: “Canvey are a good side and it’s a tough place to go, but we’ve got to turn up again like we have done in the last few games. We’re in good form, long may it continue”.
Jacob Bland returned on Easter Monday after missing nine games with a broken nose. Eddie Dsane has been ill, but could still feature. Samir Carruthers and Dean Nayler will be out for the rest of the season.
Dartford 2 – 2 Canvey Island (06/09/2025 – Isthmian Premier) Canvey Island 0 – 1 Dartford (28/12/2024 – Isthmian Premier) Dartford 2 – 0 Canvey Island (17/08/2024 – Isthmian Premier) Dartford 3 – 3 Canvey Island (12/10/2010 – F.A Cup)* Canvey Island 2 – 2 Dartford (09/10/2010 – F.A Cup) Dartford 2 – 1 Canvey Island (05/04/2010 – Isthmian Premier) * – Dartford won 9-8 on penalties
Statistics
Dartford are unbeaten on the road against Canvey Island in all competitions (W4, D1)
The Darts could go four unbeaten away games in the league for only the second time this season if they avoid defeat this weekend
On This Day
The Bradbrook brothers both scored in a 3-1 win at Princes Park on this day in 2015. The Darts fell behind in a relegation six pointer, but came back to all but send Nuneaton Town down. Andy Brown put the visitors in front until Elliot Bradbrook scored from the spot. His brother Tom added a second and Harry Crawford made certain of the win.
Twice Dartford missed out on a trip to Wembley with F.A Trophy second leg defeats on this day. In 1987, the Darts lost 2-0 against Burton Albion going out 4-1 on aggregate. Six years earlier a 2-1 loss versus Bishop’s Stortford came after the first leg finished 1-1.
