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.
Dartford aim to close the gap on Chatham Town in their penultimate home game on Easter Monday and keep their season alive.
The Darts will have three games remaining after hosting the Chats to try and break into the playoff places and extend their campaign. A late draw on the weekend leaves Dartford three points short of the top five.
Chatham Town are in a stronger position and victory will all but secure a playoff spot. The Chats would need just one more point in their final three fixtures, but another slip up see pressure coming from the Darts.
Opportunity Missed in Late Draw
A last minute goal away at Carshalton Athletic on Saturday dramatically changed the picture in the playoff race. Unfortunate, it was one that the Darts conceded resulting in the game at Colston Avenue finishing 2-2. Adrian Pennock handed a first start to Evans Kouassi in place of Olly Box and in the only change to the side that thrashed Hashtag United a week earlier.
The Robins went in front before the break through Robert Huke, but Dartford turned the game around in six second half minutes. Sam Odaudu scrambled home the equaliser, then Rohan Vaughan put the visitors into a crucial lead. At that stage, with other playoff contenders struggling, the Darts were only a point away from the top five. However, an injury time leveller from Fabio Saraiva put a dent in Dartford’s hopes, even if Pennock’s side gained some ground on fifth spot.
Home Fortress
Time may be running out, but Dartford go into their Bank Holiday Monday fixture knowing they have a strong home record. If they are still withing a chance of reaching the playoffs come the final day, the Darts will also be at Princes Park in one last Kent derby versus relegation threatened Cray Valley Paper Mills.
Pennock’s side have enjoyed playing on home soil this term where they have won six of their last seven, dropping just two points since mid December. Only two sides have taken maximum points away from Princes Park all season. The Darts have collected the most points in the division at home, joint with Folkestone Invicta who will be playing National South football next term.
Solid on the Road
Chatham Town will be standing in the way and their success this season is down to their defence. The Chats have conceded the fewest goals in the division, kept an impressive 19 clean sheets and only let in eight on the road. You have to go back to 24 February since they conceded on their travels against Dulwich Hamlet in a 1-0 defeat, five away fixtures ago.
Festive Victory
The reverse fixture this season was over the Christmas period and Dartford recorded a third straight win over the Chats. Two defenders stepped up on the day to give the Darts an early two goal cushion. First, Joe Tennent reacted quickly to score from close range with just four minutes on the clock. A couple of minutes later, George Whitefield doubled the lead. Chatham Town halved the deficit with just over half an hour to play, but the Darts held out for the win.
Pennock’s side can complete the double over the Chats for a second season in a row with victory on Monday. Last term, Dartford defeated Kevin Hake’s side on New Year’s Day at Maidstone Road. The breakthrough came on the hour in front of a record crowd when Reece Butler scored in his own net. Eddie Dsane clinched maximum points after coming off the bench as a substitute.
The two sides also played during the Bank Holiday August fixtures of 2024 and again the Darts won by a two goal margin. Chatham Town led when Jamie Vila opened the scoring, but Sam Odaudu levelled with a long range drive in the second half. Callum Jones hit one in off the underside of the crossbar six minutes from time and Dsane sealed the 3-1 win from the penalty spot.
When it comes to Kent derbies in the Isthmian Premier League, Dartford have only been beaten by Folkestone Invicta this season. The Darts have collected 19 points in these games, winning five and drawing four. Chatham Town’s record is similar with six victories and two draws out of 11 local derbies, picking up a total of 20 points.
Chatham’s Story So Far
Kevin Hake’s side have had a strong campaign in multiple competitions. Their Isthmian Premier season began with just one defeat in 11 games up until the end of October. Aside from a minor blip of four without victory at the start of the year, Chatham Town have been consistent. Leading up to Easter the Chats were seven unbeaten in the league until they lost 1-0 to Aveley on the weekend.
The Chats also reached the last 16 in both the League Cup and F.A Trophy, setting a club record for the latter. It took a defeat from finalists Southend United to knock out the Kent side after going through six rounds. The highlight of that cup run was former Dartford loanee Matty MacArthur goal to knock out Carlisle United.
Playoff Picture
Dartford have now got to within striking distance, but still need results to go their way. Whilst a derby day win against the Chats will close the gap on the fourth place side, combined with a defeat for Brentwood Town will move the Darts into the top five on goal difference. For that to happen Dartford will be hoping local rivals Welling United beat the Blues to enhance their own chances of staying in the Isthmian Premier.
Meanwhile in Essex, Aveley and Billericay Town can both book their place in the playoffs with wins against teams in the relegation zone. The Millers host Hashtag United and Ricay are at home to Canvey Island, but both sides need Dartford to lose.
Position
Team
Pld
Pts
GD
2
Aveley
37
74
+34
3
Billericay Town
37
72
+29
4
Chatham Town
37
70
+38
5
Brentwood Town
37
68
+13
6
DARTFORD
37
65
+22
7
Cray Wanderers
37
61
+7
8
Burgess Hill Town
37
61
-5
Manager’s View
Adrian Pennock was upset at the way his side failed to hang on to a win at Carshalton Athletic on Saturday, he spoke to Dartford FC TV after the draw and said: “We’re trying to get in the playoffs and to concede the goal we did at the end, that’s not good enough”. The Dartford boss was disappointed, but on reflection he could find a small positive, he added: “With the other results going our way, it’s a good point away from home”.
The crucial Kent derby against Chatham Town on Monday is going to provide a big challenge for the Darts, Pennock commented: “They are a full-time side. We got a very good result at theirs, but it was very tough and it could have gone either way”. With the quick turnaround between the two Easter matches expect some alterations to the starting lineup, he explained: “There is going to be changes, we need to get some fresh legs on there after today. I believe in every single one of my players in my squad”.
It’s likely that a few changes will take place in the starting lineup. Up front provides a number of options as shown in the Hashtag United win when the whole attack was changed. So we could see Rohan Vaughan and Olly Box involved a bit more than Saturday’s draw. Eddie Dsane missed out on the weekend due to illness, but if fit the striker could be in the squad. Options at the back include Luther Williams and Joe Tennent, the latter has yet to get his place back since returning from suspension. Sammie McLeod will also be hopeful of more minutes in the midfield.
Jacob Bland has been recovering from a broken nose, whilst Samir Carruthers and Dean Nayler have been suffering long term injuries.
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) Dartford 3 – 1 Chatham Town (15/04/2006 – Southern League Div One East)
Statistics
Dartford have won five of the last six league meetings against Chatham Town (L1)
The Darts have won two of their last three in the league at home versus the Chats (L1)
The last three home league games hosted by Dartford in this fixture have ended 3-1 (W2, L1)
On This Day
Led by Ernie Morgan, Dartford secured a place at Wembley on this day in 1974 with a 0-0 F.A Trophy second leg draw against Macclesfield Town. Watling Street celebrated history being made after the Darts went through to the final with a 2-1 aggregate win.
Two years ago, Olly Box scored the winning goal at Havant and Waterlooville in a 2-1 National South. Former Hawk, Joash Nembhard had scored four minutes earlier to cancel out a strike from James Roberts.
Playoff chasing Dartford hit the road on Saturday with a trip to a Carshalton Athletic side looking to move a step closer to safety.
The Darts narrowed the gap on the top five last time out with their biggest league win in 39 years. Pennock’s side are now unbeaten in four and an away victory will put more pressure on those above them in the Isthmian Premier.
The Robins picked up an excellent point last weekend against champions elect Folkestone Invicta. The Surrey side had an excellent March with three wins from four to help them move out of the relegation zone.
Jez’s Treble at the Darts
Dartford made the most of Hashtag United’s recent decision to request voluntary relegation last weekend. The Darts handed out a 7-0 thrashing, which included a Jez Pinder first half hat-trick. The Darts went in at the break five up and it all started with a couple of blistering counter attacks.
Pinder put in the rebound from Dan Smith’s saved effort, then he was on the end of Dan Carter’s excellent low cross to double the lead. Smith took advantage of a defensive lapse by pouncing on a mistake and calmly rolling the ball beyond Jack Giddens in the visitor’s goal. Olly Box scored from the spot and then Pinder completed his first senior hat-trick. An indirect free kick was awarded when the Hashtag United goalkeeper picked up a back pass. The midfielder waited on the edge of the box, received the ball and placed his effort into the net. In the second half, Michael Olarewaju headed in his second in as many games and Denzelle Olopade made it seven.
Victory put the Darts four points shy of the playoff places after Brentwood Town dropped points. Pennock’s side have now lost just once in their last eight games and they could go three unbeaten on the road by avoiding defeat in the first set of Easter fixtures.
In the attacking third, the Darts have vastly improved their goal difference over the last two games with the 4-1 win over Lewes and the 7-0 triumph against Hashtag United. Contributing to the attacking input Smith, Olarewaju and Olopade all scored in both of those matches. After racing into a big half time lead on Saturday, Pennock was also able to rest the entire frontline of Callum Jones, Smith and Box in the second half. The Dartford boss introduced new signing Evans Kouassi, loanee Rohan Vaughan as well as Eddie Dsane. Defensively the Darts have kept four clean sheets in the last seven.
Playoff Picture
This weekend could set up the playoff race nicely for the remainder of the campaign. Burgess Hill Town need a win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive and host Brentwood Town, who the Darts are chasing down. Chatham Town in third take on second place Aveley and Cray Wanderers in seventh are on home soil against Billericay Town.
Position
Team
Pld
Pts
GD
2
Aveley
37
71
+33
3
Chatham Town
37
70
+39
4
Billericay Town
37
69
+28
5
Brentwood Town
37
68
+14
6
DARTFORD
37
64
+22
7
Cray Wanderers
37
61
+8
8
Burgess Hill Town
37
58
-6
Box’s Brace
Back in August, the Darts came from behind to beat Carshalton Athletic 4-1 at Princes Park. The Robins went ahead through Tommy Bradford’s penalty. Box levelled just before the interval. Dan Smith put the hosts in the lead and Pinder scored his only other goal this season increase the advantage. Rounding of the win, Box netted another in a good team performance.
The last time Dartford visited Colston Avenue, Eddie Dsane scored his first goal for the Darts in a 1-0 win. The striker joined the club from Kingstonian in the summer of 2024 and is now on 24 goals for the club. The visitors held on to their 18th minute lead and needed an inspired Matt Kerbey in goal to keep the Robins out.
Carshalton Fight for Survival
Carshalton Athletic spoilt Dartford’s party once before and will be hoping to do the same again to help themselves reach their goal of safety. On the final day of last season the Robins finished off any hope of a Dartford Isthmian Premier title with a 4-1 win at Princes Park.
With the likelihood of Hashtag United getting relegated and the high chance of Potters Bar Town and Canvey Island going down, Carshalton Athletic are in competition with a few clubs to stay up. The Robins went over three months without a league win, spanning 16 matches until the end of February. In that time they picked up just seven points and saw the departure of Peter Adeniyi as boss.
Robins Revival
Steven Bates was named the new manager in time for the Ramsgate game and although he lost his first three in charge, Bates has led the Robins to a revival. Carshalton Athletic’s home record this season is marginally better than Dartford’s away record. Despite the 11 places between the two clubs, the Robins should pose a challenge for the Darts. It’s at home where Bates’ side have won their last two.
Both of those victories were over teams involved in the relegation battle. To kick start March, the Robins hosted Canvey Island and came from a goal down to win 3-1. Bryan Ifeanyi, who scored at Princes Park on the final day of last season, equalised before Tolu Ladapo and Charlie George secured maximum points.
Nathan Young-Coombes scored the only goal of the game at Cheshunt for an away win for the Robins, then another three home points came their way against Wingate and Finchley. This time the Surrey side racked up four goals with Young-Coombes opening the scoring, Denzel Akyeampong doubling the lead and Fabio Saraiva making it three. The visitors pulled one back before Ladapo made it 4-1.
To cap off a good month for the Robins they put three past champions elect Folkestone Invicta to deny them the title last weekend. The only disappointment would be that Carshalton Athletic were 3-1 up at one stage. Despite falling behind, Ryan Huke, Ladapo and Young-Coombes all found the back of the Invicta net, but the league leaders found a way back in the 3-3 draw.
Relegation Battle
As it stands it looks like there is one relegation place to be decided with Canvey Island and Potters Bar Town needing a lot to go their way and Hashtag United requesting demotion. That leaves Cray Valley Paper Mills and Welling United as Carshalton Athletic’s main concerns. The Robins will be hoping to move away from both Kent clubs and catch the likes of Wingate and Finchley as well as Lewes.
Position
Team
Pld
Pts
GD
15
Lewes
37
42
-34
16
Wingate and Finchley
37
41
-8
17
CARSHALTON ATHLETIC
37
39
-10
18
Welling United
36
35
-25
19
Hashtag United
37
35
-27
20
Cray Valley Paper Mills
37
34
-27
21
Canvey Island
37
26
-37
22
Potters Bar Town
36
26
-38
Assistant Manager’s View
Roland Edge spoke to Dartford FC TV and praised the attitude of the team in light of the recent happenings at Hashtag United, he commented: “It was quite tough because of the stuff that was being put out about Hashtag. That could have distracted our boys and taken their mind off of what they had to achieve, but they were brilliant from the start”.
Edge was delighted for Pinder to get a hat-trick and how that contributed to Dartford’s objective, he added: “We know we have got to win, but not only win, we have to get goals. The goal difference is going to be important, it was last year and I think it is this”.
Carshalton Athletic’s form has picked up of late and Edge knows their league position doesn’t tell the current story, he said: “It’s going to be very tough, they’re around the relegation zone but don’t be fooled by that. Any team on its day can get three points. We’ve got to go there fully focussed, show them respect and work hard to try and get the victory”.
Jacob Bland has been recovering from a broken nose since mid-February. The midfielder has missed the last eight games. Samir Carruthers has a knee injury that is likely to keep him out for the rest of the season.
Dartford are unbeaten in all five away games versus Carshalton Athletic and have won their last four (W4, D1)
The Darts have kept clean sheets in all three league visits to Carshalton Athletic.
The Robins’ last goal at home against Dartford was in January 1991, a F.A Trophy first round second replay tie. In the original match, the Darts kept a clean sheet in that too, a 0-0 draw.
The Darts are second in the eight game form table having picked up 17 points, four fewer than in form side Billericay Town.
On This Day
Dartford lifted the Kent Senior Cup for the seventh time on this day in 1973. The Darts clinched a 4-2 victory over Folkestone Town to win 10-4 on aggregate. In Dartford’s last away game on 4 April, Jordan Chiedozie equalised with eight minutes to go against Torquay United. The 2015 National League fixture finished 1-1. Chiedozie suffered life changing injuries in a non football related incident just over a year ago resulting in a leg amputation. The last time Dartford won on this day was in 1994 when they beat Folkestone Invicta 2-1 in the Kent League.
