Dartford FC Previews

Burgess Hill Town v Dartford

August 27, 2026 / / 0 Comments

Dartford begin the Bank Holiday weekend with a trip to Burgess Hill Town on Friday night.

The Darts will be smarting from tasting defeat at home to local rivals Welling United last Saturday. A result that saw Ben Greenhalgh’s side lose their perfect start to the campaign and drop to fifth in the table.

Burgess Hill Town may have lost their opening game, but the Hillians are unbeaten in their previous three matches drawing the last two.

Derby Defeat

Dartford lost at home in the league for the first time against Welling United since December 2013. From trying to win their opening four games for the first time in five years to suffering their heaviest home defeat in 16 months, the Darts were second best last Saturday.

Greenhalgh made two changes to the side that beat Maldon and Tiptree giving Ikechukwu Orji his debut after signing from Isthmian Premier champions Folkestone Invicta last week. Jez Pinder returned to the starting lineup, Lorenzo Duncan and Scott Wagstaff were replaced. The player manager was also forced to substitute Joe Tennent shortly before conceding the opening goal after he was clattered by Nahum Melvin-Lambert. Dartford’s centre back suffered facial fractures and required cheekbone surgery.

The Kent derby was done within in an hour with Welling United taking the lead minutes before half time then striking twice early in the second half. Nathan Cooper gave the visitors the advantage approaching the break, Melvin-Lambert scored five minutes into the second half and former Dart, Fumnaya Shomotun added a third just shy of the hour.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dartford will hope last Saturday was just a bad day after winning their first three fixtures. An opening day comeback victory over Three Bridges was followed by a single goal triumph against Brentwood Town. The Darts then went to Maldon and Tiptree and claimed all three points in Essex. Striker Max Fiddes scored twice across those games and will hope he can add to his tally against one of his former clubs on Friday night.

Hill Too Big to Conquer

Last time Dartford travelled to Sussex to take on Burgess Hill Town they fell to a 2-1 loss. The Hillians claimed their first ever home win over the Darts at the fifth attempt, ending the visitors perfect record at Leylands Park.

George Vorster scored a brace either side of Denzelle Olopade’s fantastic strike. The Hillians opened the scoring through a penalty, which Vorster put away. The Darts levelled just before the interval thanks to Olopade. Then Vorster headed a winner in the second half. The hosts held on despite having Ben Pope sent off with half hour remaining.

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Highlights courtesy of Hillians TV

Six Goal Thriller

The reverse fixture at Princes Park included six goals, two red cards, a missed penalty and a late equaliser. Olly Box had a mixed evening by opening the scoring, then getting sent off late on. Callum Jones put the Darts two up before Eddie Dsane missed his spot kick. The Hillians fought back when Marcus Allen was introduced, the defender scored with his first touch and added a second either side of the visitors being reduced to ten. Sam Odaudu’s free-kick put Dartford ahead, but Chris Whelpdale replied in injury time with a free kick of his own.

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Stuck in the Wood

The Hillians picked up a second consecutive draw last weekend in their away fixture at Cheshunt. Featuring in the starting eleven was Luther Williams, who spent the previous two seasons with the Darts making over 70 appearances for the club before joining Burgess Hill Town.

It was another signing that gave the Sussex side the lead when Shamir Fenelon headed his first goal for his new team, the forward arrived from Horsham in the summer. With just over ten minutes to go, Tommy Wood levelled from close range.

Mixed Start

A draw continued Burgess Hill Town’s mixed start to the campaign. The opening day didn’t go to plan as they went down to Brentwood Town losing 2-0. However, the Hillians replied with an impressive 3-0 home win against newcomers AFC Whyteleafe. Gary Mansell’s side hosted another promoted side four days later drawing 2-2 with Leatherhead, Whelpdale netted a brace either side of two goals from the visitors.

Manager’s View

Greenhalgh knew what sort of game the Kent derby with Welling United would be, but felt the injury to his central defender was crucial, he spoke to Dartford FC TV after the defeat and commented: “First half was as we expected. I thought it was going to be a feisty game”, he added: “I think a really key part was losing Joe Tennent”. However, Dartford’s player manager admitted his team “went a bit off script” after the break resulting in a “poor performance in the second half”.

Ahead of Friday night’s game, Greenhalgh is hoping his players can return to the form that earned the Darts three victories in a row, he said: “We need to get back to doing what we’re good at. We didn’t get enough crosses in the box, we’ve spoke about set pieces, spoke about crossing the ball and that is something we will look at and work hard at this week”.

With two Bank Holiday fixtures in the space of a few days, Greenhalgh feels it is a good time to show a positive response, he exclaimed: “We’ve got an opportunity against two good teams now to try and react. I expect a really good reaction from everyone in training and we’ve got some decisions to make from there”.

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Team News

Joe Tennent is out with a broken cheekbone, the defender was due to have surgery in the week. Emmanuel Oke, Hugo Taylor and Luke Exal were missing from last weekend’s squad having been out with injury prior the Kent derby. Jordan Higgs is yet to make his first start since joining in the summer, he has also missed out on the last two matchdays.

Current League Form

DARTFORD (WWWL) BURGESS HILL TOWN (LWDD)
Welling United H 0-3 Cheshunt A 1-1
Maldon & Tiptree A 2-1 Leatherhead H 2-2
Brentwood Town H 1-0 AFC Whyteleafe H 3-0
Three Bridges A 3-2 Brentwood Town A 0-2

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 7 / Burgess Hill Town wins: 2 / Draws: 1

Previous 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)

Statistics

  • Dartford have lost just once in the league versus the Hillians (W4, D1)
  • The Darts lost away in the league for the first time 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)

On This Day

Samir Carruthers was at the double against his former side on this day in 2022. The creative midfielder scored twice at Hemel Hempstead Town in a 2-0 win. First he curled a shot in to the top corner, then he scored directly from a free-kick.

The Darts won a Kent derby at Margate in 2015 with Lee Noble opening the scoring. Lee Burns was sent off ten minutes into the second half, but Elliot Bradbrook secured the 2-0 victory.

Four years earlier, Dartford hosted Bromley on August Bank Holiday Monday. Bradbrook was on target again as well as Charlie Sheringham from the spot and Danny Harris in a 3-1 triumph.

Dartford v Welling United

August 20, 2026 / / 0 Comments

Dartford hope to maintain a perfect start in their first Kent derby of the season against Welling United this weekend.

Ben Greenhalgh has guided the Darts to three consecutive victories leading his side to second in the table. Dartford have become one of the early front runners after wins over Three Bridges, Brentwood Town and Maldon and Tiptree.

Welling United spent most of last season fighting relegation and are expecting a better campaign this time. Under Ryan Maxwell, the Wings have won two of their opening three matches.

Dsane’s Derby Double

The Darts approach Saturday’s local clash with an exceptional record over the Wings. Currently 12 unbeaten in the league against their Kent rivals, Dartford have won nine and drawn three. Last term they achieved the double with a 3-1 triumph at Princes Park in November and 1-0 win at Park View Road in February. Greenhalgh will want to continue that sort of form when he faces one of his former clubs.

Welling United went a goal up inside the opening minutes during their previous trip to Princes Park, Ruben Shakpoke hit a shot in off the post. The Darts hit back in the second half with three unanswered goals including a quick fire brace from Eddie Dsane. The points were secured when Olly Box expertly curled in a third.

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A very late goal from a loanee gave Dartford a derby day win in the reverse fixture. With the game at Park View Road heading for a goalless draw Rohan Vaughan pounced from close range.

Darts End Jammers Run

Last weekend, Dartford became the first side to beat Maldon and Tiptree in the league as a visiting team in over 18 months. The Darts ended the Jammers unbeaten home record of 28 matches with a 2-1 win.

Greenhalgh made two changes to the side that beat Brentwood Town. Scott Wagstaff and Lorenzo Duncan made their first starts since joining this summer, coming in for Adrian Gyamera and Jez Pinder.

Set pieces have been key to Dartford’s early success with another two leading to goals against Maldon and Tiptree. Greenhalgh’s free-kick wasn’t dealt with by the hosts and when the ball fell to Max Fiddes the striker tapped home. However, Maldon and Tiptree equalised before the half was out through Samuel Adeyeye. The Darts grabbed a winner with five minutes left when Ben Swift scored his first for the club. The captain got on the end of Greenhalgh’s corner to claim the decisive goal.

Former Darts on the Scoresheet

It’s been almost eight years since Welling United’s last league win at Princes Park, but they did have F.A Cup success in DA1 back in September 2023. The Wings won 3-2 that day and will want to call on that experience as well as taking momentum from last Saturday.

After a defeat to Isthmian South Central champions Leatherhead, Ryan Maxwell made four changes. One of which was the introduction of former Dart, Fumnaya Shomotun. The winger played 19 times for the Darts during the 2023/2024 campaign scoring twice.

Demaray Anyadike scored in both halves either side of a goal from another ex-Dart, Tyrell Miller-Rodney. The midfielder played alongside Shomotun at Dartford and scored three times in 35 appearances. The fourth arrived when Ade Azeez slotted in after Anyadike missed the chance to claim a hat-trick from the spot. Azeez had a prolific start when he was at Dartford in 2021/2022 and ended that campaign with 18 goals.

Two more former Darts were in the squad, Sam Smith who was at Princes Park last term and John Ufuah, who graduated through the academy in 2017.

Wings Take Leathering

After a solid 2-0 opening day home victory over Whitehawk, the Wings were second best in their only away fixture so far. Leatherhead were four up at the break with two goals from Anas Igozouln, one from James Dickson and another by Mark Waters. Welling United managed a second half consolation courtesy of Ufuah.

Manager’s View

Greenhalgh admitted the first run of games to kick start a busy opening month of the season has been tough. The Dartford player-manager spoke to Dartford FC TV after the win in Essex and said: “We really focussed on getting three points and that’s something we’ve obviously done in the previous two games. We’ve had three games in eight days, so to get maximum points is absolute credit to this group”.

Greenhalgh praised his side’s efficiency and patience to earn the win and highlighted the importance of the substitutes. Those qualities will be needed again this weekend in his first Kent derby as Dartford boss.

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Team News

The Dartford squad were given a rest on Tuesday to help recovery. Emmanuel Oke, Hugo Taylor and Luke Exal may benefit the most after being unavailable through injury last weekend.

Current Form

Dartford (WWW) Welling United (WLW)
Maldon and Tiptree A 2-1 Stanway Rovers H 4-0
Brentwood Town H 1-0 Leatherhead A 1-4
Three Bridges A 3-2 Whitehawk H 2-0

 

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 28 / Welling United wins: 11 / Draws: 13

Previous Meetings

Welling United 0 – 1 Dartford (28/02/2026 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 1 Welling United (01/11/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 1 – 1 Welling United (30/12/2023 – National South)
Welling United 0 – 1 Dartford (26/12/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 3 Welling United (16/09/2023 – F.A Cup)
Welling United 2 – 2 Dartford (04/02/2023 – National South)

Statistics

  • Dartford are unbeaten in 12 league games against Welling United (W9, D3)
  • In the league, the Darts are unbeaten in ten home games (W8, D2) and have only lost one league match at home (W11, D3) versus the Wings ever
  • Dartford won half of their Kent derbies in the league last season (W6, D4, L2)
  • Welling United won just three Kent derbies in the league last term (L9), losing all six against Kent sides finishing in the top six

On This Day

It’s been over a decade since Dartford played on 22 August and the last two at home have been against Gosport Borough. The Darts lost 3-2 with the Bradbrook brothers both getting on the scoresheet 11 years ago. In 1989 at Watling Street, Dartford were more convincing in a 5-1 Southern Premier victory.

In between those home matches, Dartford had mixed results. However, on this day in 2009, the Darts went to the Sussex coast and beat Hastings United 3-1 in the Isthmian Premier League. Lee Burns grabbed a brace and Rob Haworth scored the other to secure three wins out of three to start the 2009/2010 title winning campaign.

Maldon and Tiptree v Dartford

August 13, 2026 / / 0 Comments

Dartford will have the chance to extend their perfect start when they visit Isthmian North champions Maldon and Tiptree this weekend.

The Darts have won their opening two league games for the first time in four years. Victory against newly promoted Three Bridges was followed up with another win over last season’s playoff finalists Brentwood Town.

Following a difficult summer, Maldon and Tiptree had a disastrous start to their campaign. The Jammers lost heavily to Dulwich Hamlet. However, Mark Hawkes’ side bounced back by maintaining an 18 month unbeaten home record in the league with a late win over Aveley.

Dartford’s Decent Defence

Dan Smith was the match winner on Tuesday night as the Darts claimed a gritty three points. The striker nodded in the only goal of the game at home against Brentwood Town.

Ben Greenhalgh made one change with George Whitefield coming in for Emmanuel Oke. As well as Whitefield, the Dartford defence were exceptional all night and deservedly kept their first clean sheet of the season.

The Darts were fast out of the blocks in both halves, but made it count in the first. Greenhalgh’s corner was met by the head of Smith after just three minutes. Brentwood Town controlled possession for the majority of the game, but Dartford limited their opportunities. Although, Joe Tennent was called into action with a goal line clearance just before half time.

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Opening Day Comeback

Greenhalgh has already led Dartford to victory over a title winning side and hopes to repeat that this weekend. The Darts defeated Isthmian South East champions Three Bridges in this season’s opener.

The Bridges went two goals up through a couple of penalties, but Dartford’s player manager sparked a comeback. A well taken strike by Greenhalgh pulled a goal back before half-time. The player manager then grabbed an assist from a free-kick which Joe Tennent nodded home, then Max Fiddes headed in the winner on his debut.

May Saves the Day

Dartford have never played the Jammers in their current guise, but they did face Maldon Town before they amalgamated with Tiptree United. That was back in 2007 when Dartford lifted the Isthmian North title. Tony Burman’s side twice came from behind to draw 2-2. Ryan Hayes followed up a long range effort to level. The winger also put in the corner that resulted in Jay May’s equaliser.

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Hammered by Hamlet

It’s been a turbulent summer for Maldon and Tiptree. Title celebrations didn’t last long before the club’s co-owners were charged with multiple offences. Manager, Kevin Horlock then quit the Jammers leaving the Essex side little time to prepare for the new campaign. In came new manager Hawkes, who couldn’t have got off to a worse start.

Playing in the Isthmian Premier for the first time as Maldon and Tiptree, the Essex side travelled to Dulwich Hamlet on the first weekend of the season. Just like the Darts visit to Champion Hill last term, the Jammers were comprehensively beaten. The match was sewn up in the first half with Hamlet four up at the break. Nyren Clunis scored twice, David Smith opened his account and former Dart, Luke Wanadio added another. In the second half, Gaspar Mico and Sol Baugh wrapped up the three points with only an hour played.

Fortress

Hawkes made three changes for their county clash with Aveley. Kai Christopher Ray Redgrave, Eze Ebuzoeme and TQ Addy replaced Hedley Ogbebor, Jaden Brissett and Iffy Allen. Former Dart, Ibby Akanbi kept his place in the side, the striker played five times in the 2023/2024 campaign for Dartford.

Up against last season’s runners up and after a heavy defeat, the Jammers bounced back with maximum points. Maldon and Tiptree took confidence from their outstanding home record and extended their unbeaten run at Park Drive to 28 league matches, this time with a late Allen goal.

Manager’s View

Dartford’s narrow win on Tuesday night was far from perfect, but Ben Greenhalgh couldn’t fault his player’s work ethic. The player manager felt his team wasn’t ‘good enough’ on the ball or in their pressing game, but highlighted the squad’s positive attitude, he told Dartford FC TV: “I think all we can talk about is the desire and hunger everyone had and the three points”.

Greenhalgh compared the performance to the last 25 minutes of the win at Three Bridges, where the team had to dig in. He commented: “It happened again tonight, all that matters is we are a new team and we’re building. To have character to win a game like that is incredible at this stage”.

Ahead of the Maldon and Tiptree match, Greenhalgh isn’t reading too much into their 6-0 loss on the opening day, he said: “I warned people that it’s not a bad eleven. They’ve got a lot of players that you would be interested in”, he continued: “We had someone watch the game and they said that they almost just gave up for that Saturday. So we don’t know the goings on there, but when they’re at it they’re going to be good”.

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Team News

Defender, Emmanuel Oke has a slight shoulder issue and is likely to be unavailable for Saturday. Luke Exal has only featured in the first pre-season friendly due to a hip injury.

Current Form

Dartford (WW) Maldon and Tiptree (LW)
Brentwood Town H 1-0 Aveley H 1-0
Three Bridges A 3-2 Dulwich Hamlet A 0-6

 

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 0 / Maldon and Tiptree* wins: 2 / Draws: 2
*previously Maldon Town

Previous Meetings

Maldon Town 2 – 2 Dartford (22/12/2007 – Isthmian Division One North)
Dartford 2 – 2 Maldon Town (18/08/2007 – Isthmian Division One North)
Dartford 0 – 5 Maldon Town (26/03/2005 – Southern League Division One East)
Maldon Town 3 – 2 Dartford (01/01/2005 – Southern League Division One East)

Statistics

  • The Darts last won their opening three league games in 2021
  • Dartford have yet to concede a goal in open play
  • The Darts have never beaten Maldon and Tiptree in four attempts
  • Dartford have drawn the last two by the same score (2-2)

On This Day

Dartford have never lost on 15 August in their six previous games on this day. The last outing ended 1-1 three years ago. Manager, Alan Dowson faced his former club and Brandon Barzey was sent off against his old side. Harvey Bradbury put Dartford ahead at Princes Park, only for Dean Inman to equalise before Barzey’s dismissal.

The Darts beat Concord Rangers in 2017 with a goal in either half from Elliot Bradbrook and Lyle Della-Verde. Two years earlier Dartford drew 2-2 with Sutton United having twice led through a pair of Tom Bradbrook goals. In 2009, Dartford won their opening Isthmian North match at home to Horsham winning 3-2. Elliot Bradbrook claimed a brace and Adam Flanagan scored the other.

Dartford v Brentwood Town

August 11, 2026 / / 0 Comments

The Darts will be back at Princes Park for a league game on Tuesday night against Brentwood Town.

Dartford have a tough test for their opening home game of the season. Whilst the Darts missed out on the playoffs last term, one of the teams they were unable to catch were this weekend’s opponents.

Brentwood Town followed up their Isthmian North title with a playoff final appearance in May. The Essex side almost won back-to back promotions, but were denied late in extra time by Billericay Town.

Opening Day Comeback

The Darts came from two goal down to win on their opener and spoil Three Bridges’ day. The Sussex side benefited from two penalties in the first half. Emmanuel Oke conceded a spot kick and Charlie Bennett became the first Bridges player to net in the Isthmian Premier. The same player added another from 12 yards after Adrian Gyamera fouled Kevin Riveria in the box.

Player manager, Ben Greenhalgh sparked the comeback on the stroke of half time with his first strike since returning to the club. The equaliser arrived in the second half when Joe Tenent headed home Greenhalgh free-kick. Two minutes later the turn around was complete with Max Fiddes getting his first goal in a Dartford shirt on his debut.

Back of the Nat

Brentwood Town began their camping with a clean sheet and a 2-0 victory. The Blues kept  Burgess Hill Town at bay and also needed their first of the campaign on the stroke of half time. Charlee Adam’s free-kick found Bradley Sachs who headed the Essex side ahead. New signing Nat Mardell made sure of maximum points late in the second half with a guided finish.

Fighting Spirit

Last time Dartford entertained Brentwood Town at home they had to show plenty of grit and determination. Back in January, with both sides aiming for the playoffs an entertaining five goal ensued. The hosts had to win it the hard way when Sam Odaudu was sent off with a little over a quarter to play.

Dartford went two up with the first coming from Sam Okoye after a couple minutes. The advantage was doubled when Olly Box put the Darts in control. Yet the visitors came back through Kymani Thomas, then Daniel Ogunleye after the hosts were reduced to ten men. The winner was finally struck by Eddie Dsane after a brilliant solo run from Dan Carter.

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Draw in Essex

The earlier meeting last season saw the two sides draw 1-1. At the time, Dartford were looking for some form after a slow start in Adrian Pennock’s second full campaign in charge. Brentwood Town fresh from their league title maintained momentum and led the Isthmian Premier.

Samir Carruthers put the Darts in front with a free-kick. Charlee Hughes equalised for the Blues to share the spoils.

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Summer Changes

The fact that the goalscorers from both games last term have all left their respected clubs highlights the changes to both squads over the summer. Dartford have replaced Box and Dsane with Gianluca Botti and Max Fiddes. Brentwood Town lost Ogunleye up front and taken a punt on former Stanway Rovers top scorer Nat Mardell.

Keith Rowland has also bolstered his squad with promotion winners. The Blues have added Mikey Berry from champions Folkestone Invicta, whilst Tommy Davis and Ben Steward were signed from Billericay Town. He has also introduced new faces from the National South bringing in Malachi Linton from AFC Totton, Harry Gibbs from playoff winners Hornchurch and Charlee Adams from Chelmsford City.

Manager’s View

Ben Greenhalgh was delighted with how his players responded to adversity on the weekend. He spoke to Dartford FC TV after the win and said: “We showed a little bit of everything, positive and negative. One thing we spoke about is the graft and character these boys are going to have and that’s attacking and defensively”.

The player manager admits the opening ten minutes was ‘too emotional’ when a decision didn’t go Dartford’s way. Harry White in the Three Bridges goal could have been sent off. Afterwards the Darts found themselves two down. At that point the team ‘could have imploded’ according to Greenhalgh.

Dartford’s boss was pleased with how his side saw the game out at 3-2 up, he commented: “The comeback is great, but it’s also the mentality to accept for the last fifteen minutes we had to defend for our lives. For us not to let in an open play goal is credit for the group”.

Brentwood Town visit the Darts on Tuesday night. Greenhalgh is expecting his players to be fully focussed, he explained: “There are good teams in this division and we have to accept that. We have to not be complacent against anyone. We’re going to go to Princes Park and we’re going consistent. We go again Tuesday and hopefully get another three points, it will be a brilliant start”.

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Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Brentwood Town wins: 2 / Draws: 3

Previous Meetings

Dartford 3 – 2 Brentwood Town (31/01/2026– Isthmian Premier)
Brentwood Town 1 – 1 Dartford (11/10/2025– Isthmian Premier)
Brentwood Town 1 – 2 Dartford (25/11/2017 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 0 – 1 Brentwood Town (29/03/2008 – Isthmian Division One North)
Brentwood Town 2 – 2 Dartford (05/02/2008 – Isthmian Division One North)
Brentwood Town 2 – 1 Dartford (08/03/1969 – Southern League First Division)

Statistics

  • Dartford’s win in January was their first in the league against Brentwood Town in 58 years (D3, L2)
  • The Darts have hosted the Blues four times in all competitions and have a 50% win rate (W2, D1, L1)
  • Dartford have lost just one of their last 11 opening home games (W5, D5), but are winless in their last three (D2, L1)

On This Day

Dartford have played four time on this day all at home. Six years ago, the Darts drew 0-0 with Hemel Hempstead Town. Three years earlier a goal from Tom Bradbrook after six minutes saw Dartford beat Eastbourne Borough.

In 2012, Dartford’s long awaited return to the National League ended in defeat against Tamworth. Peter Till and Adam Cunnington put the Lambs ahead. Elliot Bradbrook scored a free-kick before Cunnington added a third for the hosts. Harry Crawford set up a tense finish. In another season opener, the Darts drew 1-1 with Yeovil Town in the Southern Premier back in 1973.

Three Bridges v Dartford

August 6, 2026 / / 0 Comments

Dartford begin their league campaign at Isthmian South East champions Three Bridges this Saturday.

Ben Greenhalgh takes charge of his first competitive match as player manager of the Darts. The midfielder has featured on the pitch in pre-season, a role he also took up at Margate last term.

Three Bridges are on a crest of a wave having won three pieces of silverware in four months. The Sussex side will be making their first appearance in the Isthmian Premier, so will be creating their own history.

Youth and Experience

Plenty of debuts are expected to be handed out by Greenhalgh after a busy summer putting his squad together. Emmanuel Oke, Brandon Davey and Louie Atkins were all part of the Dartford academy before leaving and coming back to the club. The trio join George Whitefield, Jez Pinder, Sam Odaudu and Richie Atkins who have been retained and have also progressed through the Darts youth system. As well as Greenhalgh, another to return to the club is goalkeeper Ryan Sandford. Bringing more experience to the team will be Scott Wagstaff and Jordan Higgs.

Fresh Faces

Ben Swift followed the Dartford manager from Margate in the summer and will be the new captain. Other new additions include Adrian Gyamera, Lorenzo Duncan and Luke Exal. Meanwhile up front, Gianluca Botti and Max Fiddes will work alongside the retained Dan Smith.

This week Tyler Ibe became the latest recruit from Larkfield and New Hythe. The winger scored 21 goals in the Southern Counties East last season.

Pre-Season

Although pre-season is not about the results, the Darts have had a strong and intense build up to the new campaign. Designed with fitness in mind, Greenhalgh spread out minutes to players over eight matches.

A single goal defeat to Championship side Charlton Athletic was followed up with a 2-1 win over local rivals Ebbsfleet United. The Darts then drew 0-0 with Isthmian Premier champions Folkestone Invicta.

Dartford beat Sutton Athletic, drew with Whitstable Town before losing to Billericay Town. The Darts triumphed over Faversham Town, had their game against Chelmsford City called off and rounded pre-season off with a 4-0 home win against Ashford United.

League Champions

Greenhalgh would have come across the Isthmian South East champions, Three Bridges last season at Margate. In fact, Dartford’s player manager scored against them in a 2-0 win at Hartsdown Park which also featured Oke and Davey. However, his last visit to the Jubilee Field ended in a 3-0 loss. Dartford’s vice-captain, Joe Tennent will also know a bit about this weekend’s opponents having played for them in the past.

The Sussex side won their league by 11 points last term and racked up an astonishing 124 league goals. Manager, Jamie Crellin had the reliability of Noel Leighton, Reece Hallard and Charlie Bennett who all netted over 20 goals in the league. The trio made the Isthmian South East team of the season along with defenders Dan Ferreira and Josh Hallard.

Cup Winners

To crown an already exceptional campaign, Three Bridges also claimed the Sussex Senior Cup. They beat Little Common in round two, smashed Wick 10-0 in round three before beating three teams in higher divisions. The Bridges won on penalties against Horsham, defeated Worthing in the semi-final and claimed the county honours with a penalty shootout win over Brighton and Hove Albion.

During pre-season Three Bridges added a third piece of silverware in the Sussex Community Shield. The county cup winners took on the Southern Combination League champions Steyning Town and won 3-2. Leighton scored his 100th competitive goal for the Bridges.

Bridge Prepares

Three Bridges had a mixed pre-season in preparation for the opening day, with three victories and three defeats. The Sussex club began with a win over Egham Town and they also beat Bromley prior to the aforementioned Community Shield triumph. Eastbourne Town and AFC Croydon Athletic put four past them and so did Gosport Borough in their final friendly.

Manager’s View

Ben Greenhalgh is pleased with his first pre-season as Dartford boss. After the Ashford United friendly he spoke to Dartford FC TV and said: “I’m really happy with how much we’ve managed to do in training and how much progression we’re seeing on the pitch at the moment”. He added: “We play six games in August against some tough opponents and it’s now time to step it up”.

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Team News

Emmanuel Oke and Scott Wagstaff have not had as many minutes as they would have liked over pre-season. The pair will be hoping to be in contention to play some part in Saturday’s opener. New signing Jordan Higgs picked up an injury in the friendly against Whitstable Town, but is optimistic he can be available.

Three players have taken the opportunity to get game time elsewhere. Goalkeeper, Carter Sullivan has gone out on loan to Punjab United, Kai Jeffrey is now on dual registration with Hollands and Blair, whilst Hugo Taylor will be at Sutton Athletic. Albie O’Mara-Knapp has left the Darts to join Margate.

Dean Nayler will be out for the majority of the season after a second successful operation on the injury he suffered a year ago.

Pre-Season Results

 

Dartford (LWDWDLWW) Three Bridges (WLLWWL)
Ashford United H 4-0 Gosport Borough H 1-4
Faversham Town A 2-0 Steyning Town N 3-2
Billericay Town H 0-3 Bromley H 2-0
Whitstable Town A 1-1 AFC Croydon Athletic H 2-4
Sutton Athletic A 2-1 Eastbourne Town H 1-4
Folkestone Invicta A 0-0 Egham Town H 2-1
Ebbsfleet United H 2-1      
Charlton Athletic H 0-1      

 

Statistics

  • Three Bridges are one of three teams Dartford will play for the first time this season
  • Dartford lost just one game against newly promoted sides last season (W2, D3
  • The Darts won their last opening day fixture against a newly promoted team. Two years ago, Dartford earned a 2-1 victory over Cray Valley Paper Mills
  • Dartford had won three away day openers in a row before last season’s 4-0 defeat at Dulwich Hamlet
  • The Darts have lost one of their last six opening games (W4, D1)

On This Day

The Darts have only played twice on this day and have yet to win. In 2017, Dartford came from two down against Braintree Town to draw their second game of the season. Karl Oliyide and Billy Crook put the Irons in command, but Tom Murphy and Elliot Bradbrook earned the Darts a point.

Dartford lost on the opening day of the 2015/2016 season against Hemel Hempstead Town on 8 August. A goal from Oliver Hawkins settled the National South match at Vauxhall Road.

Season Preview 2026/2027

July 29, 2026 / / 0 Comments

Wingate and Finchley

The club were formed as a merger between Wingate and Finchley in 1991. The Blues have spent all but six years of their existence in the Isthmian leagues. Four years after the merge they switched from the South Midlands to the Isthmian Division Three. After a playoff win in 2011, Wingate and Finchley have stayed in the Isthmian Premier ever since.

2025/2026 Season
Isthmian Premier: 16th
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 1st Round
County Cup: 3rd Round
League Cup: Winners
Top League Scorer: Ogo Obi (23 goals)

Wingate and Finchley didn’t get off to the best of starts last season by losing their opening four games. In total they went six without a win to begin the campaign and then take off. The Blues went three months unbeaten in the league winning seven out of ten. Such was their form that they went from relegation candidates to playoff hopefuls. Then they dropped rapidly after a twelve match winless run. The final months averaged out to inconsistency.

Manager – Ahmet Rifat

A long serving former Wingate and Finchley player, Ahmet Rifat come through the academy at Reading as a midfielder. At the age of 33 he broke the record for most Wingate and Finchley appearances when he reached 460 games. After hanging up his boots, Rifat turned manager in October 2022. A couple of seasons ago he guided the club to their first playoff campaign in 14 years.

Summer Transfers

Only departures to report on so far this summer, Wingate and Finchley have lost their top scorer Gianluca Botti to Dartford. The striker netted 13 league goals last term. Kyron McKay has also left the Blues to join Dulwich Hamlet. Arthur Iontton will be playing for Cheshunt.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Wingate and Finchley wins: 5 / Draws: 2

Previous Six Meetings

Wingate and Finchley 3 – 1 Dartford (07/03/2026 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 1 – 2 Wingate and Finchley (08/11/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Wingate and Finchley 1 – 2 Dartford (18/01/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 2 – 2 Wingate and Finchley (19/10/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 1 – 0 Wingate and Finchley (26/04/2008 – Isthmian Division One North)
Wingate and Finchley 0 – 2 Dartford (03/11/2007 – Isthmian Division One North)

Next Meetings

Dartford v Wingate and Finchley – Saturday 10th October 2026
Wingate and Finchley v Dartford – Saturday 10th April 2027

Statistics

  • Dartford have lost three of the last four against Wingate and Finchley (W1)
  • The Darts have lost their last two home games against the Blues, their only two home losses versus the North London side
  • Dartford’ have won just twice away from home against Wingate and Finchley (D1, L3)

Match Highlights – 2025/2026

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Season Preview 2026/2027

July 29, 2026 / / 0 Comments

Whitehawk

In the space of seven years Whitehawk almost completed the journey from the Sussex League to the National League, but were denied in playoff heartbreak. County champions in 2010 and back-to-back Isthmian titles in 2012 and 2013, the Hawks soared. In the National South, Whitehawk reached the playoffs in consecutive campaigns before double relegation. Three years ago, the Sussex side won the Division One South East playoffs.

2025/2026 Season
Isthmian Premier: 14th
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 3rd Qualifying Round
County Cup: 2nd Round
Top League Scorer: Charlie Lambert (13 goals)

When Whitehawk beat Brentwood Town in early November, the Hawks were in contention of challenging for the playoff places. However, one win in eight saw them slide before picking up again. The Hawks went on a seven match unbeaten run that kept them around mid-table, but clear enough from danger. That proved crucial as in the final 12 fixtures they failed to win and at one stage lost six in a row during March.

Manager – Jay Lovett

Jay Lovett impressed as a player at Crawley Town in the late nineties earning a move to Brentford. The former midfielder later returned to non-league football making most of his appearances with Lewes and Eastbourne Borough. As a manager, Lovett started out at South Park and had a three-year spell with Burgess Hill Town. After a short stint at Haywards Heath Town, then a coaching role with Eastbourne Borough, he returned to the Hillians as joint manager before his move to Whitehawk this summer.

Summer Transfers

Three of the new Whitehawk players should be able to link up immediately. Finlay Chadwick, Matt Jones and Lee Seok Jae all arrive from Bognor Regis Town. Likewise, Mehmet Halim and Liam Moore both make a move from Sutton United. Staying in the county and joining the Hawks from Lewes is Beaux Booth. The Hawks also have two arrivals from Kent with Dan Bowry (Cray Valley Paper Mills) and Oghosa Williams (Greenwich Borough)joining the ranks.

Leaving the Sussex club over the summer, Stefan Wright has switched to Welling United and Harry Lodovica to Chatham Town. Meanwhile, Andrew Briggs has made a move to Lewes and Joel Daly to Burgess Hill Town.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 9 / Whitehawk wins: 3 / Draws: 0

Previous Six Meetings

Whitehawk 1 – 2 Dartford (25/11/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 0 Whitehawk (14/10/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Whitehawk 0 – 1 Dartford (12/04/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 4 – 1 Whitehawk (04/01/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 1 Whitehawk (27/01/2018 – National South)
Whitehawk 0 – 4 Dartford (05/09/2017 – National South)

Next Meetings

Dartford v Whitehawk – Saturday 19th September 2026
Whitehawk v Dartford – Saturday 13th February 2027

Statistics

  • Dartford have won their last seven games against Whitehawk and have completed a double in the last three campaigns, in which the two sides have been in the same division
  • The Darts have won their last four home games against the Hawks
  • Dartford have won their last three away matches versus Whitehawk

Match Highlights 2025/2026

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Season Preview 2026/2027

July 28, 2026 / / 0 Comments

Welling United

A regular in the National League during the mid-eighties and through the nineties, Welling United have flitted between the top two tiers of non-league. A year after losing the National South playoff final in 2012 the Wings went on to win the league. Lasting three campaigns in the National League, Welling United were relegated. In the following nine National South campaigns the Wings reached the playoffs once. After relegation a year ago they were involved in another battle to avoid the drop.

2025/2026 Season
Isthmian Premier: 15th
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 1st Round
County Cup: 2nd Round
London Senior Cup: 1st Round
League Cup: 4th Round
Top League Scorer: John Ufuah (7 goals)

The Wings relied on a strong final two months of the season to ensure Isthmian Premier league football again. Welling United spent most of 2025/2026 in the bottom four and only climbed out with six games to go. A change of manager midway through the campaign avoided a consecutive relegation. After two wins and eight defeats in the opening ten fixtures, Lee Martin was dismissed. Six weeks passed before Ryan Maxwell became the permanent manager. It took a few months to put a competitive squad together, a team that ended with just one defeat in their final nine games.

Manager – Ryan Maxwell

Plenty of non-league experience as a player, including a spell with Welling United, Ryan Maxwell started his managerial career eight years ago at Walthamstow. A couple of years later he moved to Braintree Town to keep then in the National South. In 2023, Maxwell began an enjoyable journey with Sittingbourne. He took the Brickies to consecutive playoff campaigns, losing the 2025 final with a side that amassed over 100 points. He also took Sittingbourne to the F.A Trophy quarter-final.

Summer Transfers

Two former Darts will be featuring at Park View Road this season. Fumnaya Shomotun was relegated with Cray Valley Paper Mills last term. The winger made 19 appearances for Dartford scoring twice. Tyrell Miller-Rodney almost exited the division at the other end of the table. The midfielder joins from Billericay Town and played 35 games for the Darts. Another to remain in the Isthmian Premier is Ryan Kingsford from champions Folkestone Invicta.

Other additions include Stefan Wright, who makes a switch from Whitehawk, Ryan Blackman comes in from Bedford Town and Demaray Anyadike from relegated Potters Bar Town. Nathan Cooper arrives form Hornchurch and Kaan Bennett from Burgess Hill Town. Making a step up to the Isthmian Premier, Louis Ramsay joins from Concord Rangers and Zuriel Otseh-Taiwo from Herne Bay.

Scott Simmons has left the club to join newly promoted Maldon and Tiptree. Jack Thomas has also recently announced his departure.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 28 / Welling United wins: 11 / Draws: 13

Previous Six Meetings

Welling United 0 – 1 Dartford (28/02/2026 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 1 Welling United (01/11/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 1 – 1 Welling United (30/12/2023 – National South)
Welling United 0 – 1 Dartford (26/12/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 3 Welling United (16/09/2023 – F.A Cup)
Welling United 2 – 2 Dartford (04/02/2023 – National South)

Next Meetings

Dartford v Welling United – Saturday 22nd August 2026
Welling United v Dartford – Saturday 20th March 2027

Statistics

  • Dartford are unbeaten in 12 league games against Welling United (W9, D3)
  • In the league, the Darts are unbeaten in ten home games (W8, D2) and have only lost one league match at home (W11, D3) versus the Wings ever
  • On the road, Dartford are unbeaten in five in the league (W4, D1) and have lost just one of the last 11 away league matches against Welling United (W5, D5)

Match Highlights 2025/2026

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Season Preview 2026/2027

July 28, 2026 / / 0 Comments

Three Bridges

Isthmian South East champions Three Bridges will be playing in the Isthmian Premier for the first time ever. The Sussex club had been playing at county level up until 2012 and on three occasions in the eighties finished runners up. The Bridges finally got out of the division as champions, but five years later returned to the league below. Three Bridges bounced straight back with the Southern Combination title and after eight years back in the Isthmian South East they claimed another championship.

2025/2026 Season
Isthmian South East: 1st
F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 1st Qualifying Round
County Cup: Winners
League Cup: 2nd Round
Top League Scorer: Noel Leighton (31 goals)

The Bridges won the Isthmian South East by 11 points and scored a staggering 124 goals. To crown off a quite brilliant campaign they also won the Sussex Senior Cup for the first time. Three Bridges regularly racked up the goals, scoring three or more in half of their league games. They hit five in one game seven times and recorded a six and a seven. Just one home defeat in the league all season, the Bridges were dominant.

Manager – Jamie Crellin

Five years ago, Jamie Crellin was put in charge of Three Bridges. The former Bridges captain, a role he maintained for four years, suffered an injury which forced him to call it a day. Added to the coaching staff in 2019, he was finally given an opportunity in May 2021 to lead the first team. Under Crellin, Three Bridges have made forward strides culminating in last season’s record breaking campaign.

Summer Transfers

Much of the title winning squad has been kept together. One addition is Carlos Richards from League One side Bromley. Leaving the Bridges is Harvey Woollard has joined Steyning Town.

Head to Head

No previous meetings

Next Meetings

Three Bridges v Dartford – Saturday 8th August 2026
Dartford v Three Bridges – Saturday 21st February 2026

Statistics

  • Three Bridges are one of three teams Dartford will play for the first time this season
  • Dartford lost just one game against newly promoted sides last season (W2, D3

Season Preview 2026/2027

July 27, 2026 / / 0 Comments

Stanway Rovers

An Essex Senior title followed by last season’s playoff win, Stanway Rovers have fast-tracked themselves to the Isthmian Premier. Having spent their entire history in regional leagues until recent, Rovers are guaranteed their highest ever finish this season. Years in the Eastern Counties and a few campaigns in the Essex Senior League means they made their F.A Trophy debut last term. In the F.A Cup they equalled their best ever run to the second qualifying round. These are good times for the Essex club.

2025/2026 Season
Isthmian North: 5th
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 1st Round
County Cup: 2nd Round
League Cup: 3rd Round
Top League Scorer: Nat Mardell (23 goals)

A debut season in the Isthmian North went rather well for Rovers. Consistency throughout their campaign earned them a playoff spot as they qualified in fourth place. An away tie against Waltham Abbey finished 2-1 to Rovers after they fell behind. The final at home to Redbridge ended 0-0, but Stanway Rovers finished the job in a shootout winning 4-2 on penalties.

Manager – Brad Wellmen

Preparations for this season took a setback when Jamie Shaw resigned after three successful years. Stanway Rovers considered their options and went for Brad Wellmen. Formerly at Canvey Island, he guided the Essex side to the Isthmian North playoff final where they beat Brentwood Town to secure promotion. The following season they reached the playoffs again, losing to Aveley in the semi-final. He also lifted the Essex Senior Cup during his time with the Gulls.

Summer Transfers

It’s been quiet on the transfer front at Stanway Rovers this summer as they prepare for the Isthmian Premier. The biggest news is that top scorer Nat Mardell has left to join Brentwood Town. George Okoye has also left Rovers.

Head to Head

No previous meetings

Next Meetings

Stanway Rovers v Dartford – Saturday 5th December 2026
Dartford v Cray Wanderers – Saturday 6th March 2027

Statistics

  • Stanway Rovers are one of three teams Dartford will play for the first time this season
  • Dartford lost just one game against newly promoted sides last season (W2, D3)
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