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Cray Wanderers v Dartford

April 20, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford can clinch the Isthmian Premier title against Cray Wanderers in their first ever visit to Flamingo Park on Easter Monday.

Adrian Pennock’s side will need to be fully focussed in the Kent derby, but there is no doubt the travelling fans will also be tuned in to events elsewhere. For the Darts to secure promotion back to the National South they will need to beat the Wands and hope their closest rivals fail to win.

On paper Dartford have the toughest fixture against a Cray Wanderers side in tenth, a side who have only lost four at home in the league all season. The remaining two title challengers are on the road. Billericay Town face an already safe Canvey Island, whilst Horsham take on relegated Bognor Regis Town. It’s likely the title is going right down to the wire for a final day showdown next weekend.

Dartford will take plenty of confidence from their Good Friday Kent derby victory over rivals Dover Athletic. The influential Samir Carruthers was able to start after a short but affective cameo at Whitehawk. Olly Box returned to the first eleven and defender Luther Williams was back in the matchday squad after injury.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The Darts made a tricky looking game feel comfortable and any nerves were settled with a wonderful free-kick from Carruthers after quarter of an hour. The midfielder curled his shot from out wide into the far top corner to give the hosts the lead. A second arrived through the tireless Denzelle Olopade, who pounced on a flick on for his seventh goal of the season. Early in the second half Box showed his skill by beating his man and putting in a perfect cross for captain Josh Hill to nod home. Dover Athletic pulled one back with almost ten minutes remaining when Ruben Soares-Junior scored from just outside the box to make the final score 3-1.

After the important win assistant manager, Roland Edge spoke to Dartford FC TV and said: “It had to be a brilliant performance. I have to be honest I thought Dover were excellent. They had great creativity up front, but I thought we matched them”, he added: “We knew the improtance of the game, the lads came out from the very first kick of the ball to the last ball focussed, winning their battles and I thought we deserved it, even though it was really, really tight”.

Looking forward to the week ahead and the different challenges left to face Edge commeneted: “Cray are a good side as well. They have gone on a great run recently. We know what we’ve got to do, we’ve just got to prepare ourselves correctly…what will be will be”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dartford have now won five of their last six taking 16 points from the 18 available in that time. It’s been a good response to the consecutive away defeats to Cheshunt at the end of February and Lewes at the beginning of March. In that time the defence have been resolute with four clean sheets in the victories against Hastings United, Bognor Regis Town, Dulwich Hamlet and Whitehawk. The side has shown character by coming from two down to draw 2-2 with Folkestone Invicta and secured an important three points against Dover Athletic.

Standing in Dartford’s way on Monday will be Cray Wanderers and former Darts skipper Tom Bonner. Now captain for the Wands, the defender played over 450 times for the Darts and helped the club earn promotion to the National League and win two Kent Senior Cups. However, the former Dartford man didn’t have a good Friday when his side lost 3-0 to Horsham, a result Pennock and company weren’t hoping for. To compound matters Bonner became the second Wands player to be sent off that afternoon following an earlier red card to Ezechukwu Ebuzoeme. The pair will face suspension which normally occurs a week later, so should be available for the Kent derby.

Earlier this season Dartford won this fixture 2-1 at Princes Park on Boxing Day. After half an hour Josh Williams put the visitors in front. The second-half became Olly Box’s day with two very well taken strikes to secure maximum points. First, he smashed home an equaliser on 58 minutes and four minutes later he cut inside and found the top corner.

Last time Cray Wanderers played hosts in the league to the Darts was 15 years ago when Dartford ran out 2-1 winners. Lee Burns made up for his red card in the reverse fixture, a 1-1 Boxing Day draw in 2009. Burns popped up with the opening goal and James White added another four minutes later to take the Darts into the break with a two-goal advantage. The Wands hit back in the second half with Colin Luckett’s penalty, but the hosts couldn’t find an equaliser.

Since that league meeting Dartford have faced Cray Wanderers on the road a further five times all in cup competitions. The Darts won twice 2-1, in the F.A Cup in 2011 and five years later in the Kent Senior Cup. The Wands got revenge in the county cup with a 4-2 triumph a year later. Dartford have won the previous two cup ties knocking out Cray Wanderers 3-1 in the F.A Trophy four years ago. Last season the Darts won 2-1 in the London Senior Cup.

The Wands are guaranteed Isthmian Premier football next term, but they will have their sights on finishing strongly and improving their tenth place position. Only four sides have beaten Cray in the league at Flamingo Park, three of those defeats came in the first four matches in their new ground. In fact it took until their seventh home match to record a first Isthmian Premier win at thier new home.

The win in November sparked an unbeaten home run of 12 until defeat at the end of March to Dover Athletic, but they bounced back with a pair of impressive wins. Years ago, Cray Wanderers helped out Dartford by sharing their old ground at Oxford Road. Just over a fortnight ago they did another favour by winning 2-0 at Billericay Town meaning the Darts extended their lead to the two point margin it is today. In their last home game the Wands comfortably won 4-1 against Wingate and Finchley.

As it stands…

Team	Played	Points	GD
DARTFORD	40	83	+31
Billericay Town	40	81	+36
Horsham	40	81	+36

Current League Form

Dartford (WWWDWW)			Cray Wanderers (LWLWWL)
Dover Athletic	H	3-1	Horsham	A	0-3
Whitehawk	A	1-0	Wingate & Finchley	H	4-1
Folkestone Invicta	H	2-2	Billericay Town	A	2-0
Dulwich Hamlet	A	3-0	Dover Athletic	H	1-2
Bognor Regis Town	A	2-0	Bowers & Pitsea	H	4-0
Hastings United	H	2-0	Carshalton Athlectic	A	1-2

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 37 / Cray Wanderers wins: 21 / Draws: 11

Previous Six Meetings

Dartford 2 – 1 Cray Wanderers (26/12/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Cray Wanderers 1 – 2 Dartford (16/04/2024 – London Senior Cup)
Cray Wanderers 1 – 3 Dartford (18/12/2021 – F.A Trophy)
Cray Wanderers 4 – 2 Dartford (20/09/2017 – Kent Senior Cup)
Cray Wanderers 1 – 2 Dartford (05/10/2016 – Kent Senior Cup)
Cray Wanderers 1 – 2 Dartford (15/10/2011 – F.A Cup)

Statistics

In the league Dartford have lost just once against Cray Wanderers in the last 20 outings (W15, D4)
The Darts have won 18 of the last 22 away matches against Cray Wanderers in all competitions (D1, L3)
Dartford have kept three league clean sheets in a row away from home for the second time this season. The last time they managed four consecutive away cleans sheets in the league was in March/April 2018

On This Day

Danny Mills and Alfie Pavey made sure the title race went down to the final day of the season on this day in 2018. The pair scored the two goals enough to beat Bath City 2-0 at Princes Park to set up a tense finale. The Darts rounded off their home campaign in 2009 with an entertaining 4-2 win over Ashford Town (Middlesex). Goals from Lee Noble, Jay May, Adam Flanagan and Jamie Coyle secured victory. Dartford’s last eight games on 21 April have all been at home including a 6-2 thrashing of Gloucester City in the Southern Premier League back in 1990.

Even further back, Dartford collected some silverware when they beat Sheppey United 2-0 in the 1930 Kent Senior Shield final. On the same day, the Darts also lost 5-2 to Grays Thurrock United in the Southern League Eastern Section.

Dartford v Dover Athletic

April 16, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Easter weekend could be pivotal in the Isthmian Premier with Dartford facing Kent rivals Dover Athletic as the title race heats up.

The Darts will be determined to stay on top on Good Friday and avenge their humbling dished out by the Whites earlier in the season. If Adrian Pennock’s side claim victory in the local derby at Princes Park, it will mathematically end Dover Athletic’s hopes of the title. Should the visitors win, and results go their way elsewhere, Jake Leberl’s team will be guaranteed a playoff spot.

Dartford hold a two point advantage heading into the final three games and are unbeaten in five, whilst Dover Athletic have won their last four. Last weekend the top six all triumphed and with second place Billericay Town hosting mid-table Folkestone Invicta and third place Horsham at home to Cray Wanderers in tenth, the Darts are likely to need a positive result on Friday.

Dover Athletic beat the Darts comfortably in the reverse fixture back in September. Since then, Pennock has seen his team develop since the 5-1 loss. At the Crabble, costly mistakes helped the hosts race into a half-time lead with goals from Ruben Soares-Junior, George Wilkinson and Luke Baptiste. Early in the second half Alfie Matthews added another, then Dartford’s Jez Pinder scored his first senior goal. There was still time for Soares-Junior to get his second of the afternoon for the Whites.

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Match highlights courtesy of DAFCtv

However, the landscape has changed since that meeting. Dover Athletic started the season in excellent form scoring goals for fun. On the opening day they racked up eight and by the time November came around they were already top of the table, 14 points ahead of Dartford in fifteenth and had a superior goal difference of 29 compared to the Darts. Now it’s Dartford at the summit eight points clear of fourth place Dover Athletic.

Aside from the heavy defeat earlier in the campaign, the Darts were on a hot streak against their Kent rivals winning the previous six in all competitions. Dartford completed a league double over the Whites in the last two seasons recording a 2-0 win at Princes Park last term. Luke Coulson set up James Golding and Lewis Manor for their first competitive Dartford goals. The scoreline could have been more, but Coulson blasted his penalty over the crossbar.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

On the weekend the return of Olly Box was crucial in Dartford’s 1-0 win at Whitehawk. Out with injury for the draw against Folkestone Invicta, the forward was named as a substitute, came on in the second half and popped up with the all important goal. Box and Samir Carruthers were deemed not fit enough to play the full ninety minutes, but both made an impact. Although Carruthers was introduced in the second half, he had to be replaced 25 minutes later due to a rib injury. The midfielder still had enough time to drive forward and make a key pass to Sam Odaudu, who set up Box for his 14th goal of the season.

As Dartford’s creative pair were named on the bench that meant Duane Ofori-Acheampong was given his first start since December, this weekend the striker could face one of his former clubs. Whilst defender, Luther Williams was missing from the matchday squad with injury for the third match running.

The Whites looked in control of Isthmian Premier at the turn of the year leading the way with 15 wins from 23 outings. However, from January to mid-March they picked up just three victories all against sides currently in the relegation zone. Leberl’s side have since rallied winning four in a row and are beginning to display their firepower again. The division’s top scorers, the Whites have a golden boot contender in George Nikaj, who has netted 21 league goals and is currently four off the lead. Both Baptiste and Soares-Junior have notched 19 league goals this term.

Dover Athletic’s current run began with a gritty home win against Dulwich Hamlet in which Luca Cocoracchio scored the only goal of the game, the Whites went on to record consecutive 2-1 victories. The Whites came out on top in the Kent derby with Cray Wanderers by coming from behind. Joshua Williams opened the scoring for the Wands at Flamingo Park, but George Nikaj and Soares-Junior handed the away side maximum points. A week later, the scoring took the same pattern as the whites went a goal down at home to Cheshunt. This time Baptiste equalised and Nikaj was the match winner.

Last weekend it was a bit more commanding for Dover Athletic as they defeated Hendon 4-2 at the Crabble. The Whites went ahead when goalkeeper Matteo Salamon scored an own goal and a second followed through Baptiste. The visitors halved the deficit when Kofi Anokye-Boadi was at the back post to score. A seven minute second half spell pulled Dover Athletic further away when Baptiste netted his second and Ryan Hanson go in on the act. Late on, Tope Fadahunsi grabbed a consolation for the Greens.

Current League Table (Top 5)

Team	Played	Points	GD
DARTFORD	39	80	+29
Billericay Town	39	78	+34
Horsham	39	78	+33
Dover Athletic	39	74	+35
Cray Valley (PM)	39	71	+21

Current League Form

Dartford (LWWWDW)			Dover Athletic (LLWWWW)
Whitehawk	A	1-0	Hendon	H	4-2
Folkestone Invicta	H	2-2	Cheshunt	H	2-1
Dulwich Hamlet	A	3-0	Cray Wanderers	A	2-1
Bognor Regis Town	A	2-0	Dulwich Hamlet	H	1-0
Hastings United	H	2-0	Chatham Town	H	0-1
Lewes	A	1-3	Cray Valley (PM)	A	1-2

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 18 / Dover Athletic wins: 12 / Draws: 12

Previous Six Meetings

Dover Athletic 5 – 1 Dartford (07/09/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dover Athletic 1 – 2 Dartford (17/02/2024 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 0 Dover Athletic (28/08/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Dover Athletic (10/04/2023 – National South)
Dover Athletic 1 – 3 Dartford (13/09/2022 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Dover Athletic (08/03/2022 – Kent Senior Cup)

Statistics

Dartford have lost just once at home in the league versus the Whites (W6, D4) and have won the last five.
Substitutes have contributed to 14 league goals for the Darts this season earning 10 points from losing positions.
Josh Hill celebrated his 100^th start for the club last weekend by contributing to a fourth clean sheet in five for the Darts

On This Day

Dartford hit Truro City for five for a second time in a season on this day in 2017. Ofori-Acheampong was awarded Player of the Match, but it was Andy Pugh who scored a brace in an entertaining 5-3 win. Andrew Neal put the Cornish side ahead until Pugh levelled. Elliot Bradbrook unleashed a 25-yard effort to put the Darts in front before Neal got Truro City back on level terms. Luke Wanadio made it 3-2, but Truro City couldn’t be shaken off as Jamie Richards equalised. Finally, the Darts wrapped things up with goals from Pugh and Tom Murphy.

Whitehawk v Dartford

April 10, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford aim to keep their advantage at the top of the Isthmian Premier when they visit Whitehawk this weekend.

Having already secured a playoff place, victory in Sussex this Saturday will guarantee the Darts a two point lead heading into the final three games. A slip up could see Adrian Pennock’s side relinquish top spot to either Billericay Town or Horsham such is the closeness of the title race. Whitehawk need all three points to be mathematically safe. A draw will see the Hawks stay in the Isthmian Premier should Hendon fail to win against Dover Athletic.

Pennock made one change to the side in the Kent derby at home to Folkestone Invicta last time out. Olly Box was rested after picking up a knock, so Eddie Dsane started. Luther Williams wasn’t in the matchday squad, but Louis Dunne returned making a substitute appearance.

The Darts had to show plenty of character and calmness to fight back from two goals down. Invicta’s Amadou Kassarate scored a first half brace to put the hosts in a spot of bother. First, he hooked the ball beyond Jacob Marsden, then the midfielder headed in former Dartford player Ade Yusuff’s cross.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In the second half the picture changed. Defender, George Whitefield scored from close range to net his eighth of the season. Meanwhile, either side of Whitefield’s strike, Billericay Town went two down at Cray Wanderers. So, when Denzelle Olopade was brought down in the box inside the final ten minutes of normal time, Samir Carruthers stepped forward, slotted home the penalty and Dartford’s lead at the top increased. The draw extends the Darts unbeaten home record to 13 games stretching back to October, their best undefeated league run at Princes Park since the 2021/2022 season.

Pennock was delighted with getting the draw considering the situation at the half time, he spoke to Dartford FC TV after the game and said: “To come back to 2-2 and maybe nick one at the end, it was just great. I thought it was a fantastic point and one everyone should be proud of and positive. We’ve extended the lead in the table, so I wouldn’t be too downhearted as it was a fantastic point”.

With Folkestone Invicta leading and disrupting the game, the Dartford boss praised his players, he added: “I think we did well second half and didn’t lose our focus, we kept pushing and pushing and pushing”.

Eventually rewarded with two goals in response it sets the Darts up for the rest of the title run-in, he commented: “We’ve got so many hard games in the four we have got, they are so tough. We’re in a good position, obviously it’s up to us. It’s going to be very tough, but we’re having a good go at it”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dartford dropped points in consecutive away games losing to Cheshunt and Lewes in February and March. Since then, the Darts have got back on track with victories on the road at Bognor Regis Town and Dulwich Hamlet. Even better is that Marsden kept clean sheets in both of those games. At home, the draw with Invicta may have ended a three game winning streak, but it has taken the Darts to four matches unbeaten home and away. Prior to last weekend’s point, Pennock’s side also won at Princes Park against title rivals Horsham and relegation battlers Hastings United.

At the turn of the year, Josh Hill scored a goal of the season contender against Whitehawk in the reverse fixture. The Dartford captain hit a screamer from long range in a 4-1 win. Striker, Callum Jones increased the lead before Josh Nandhra halved the deficit for the Hawks. In the closing stages the Darts sealed the three points during injury time. First Carruthers won a penalty, dusted himself off and put away the spot kick. Then another substitute, Dsane scored a wonderful solo effort.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The Darts won both games against Whitehawk last time the two sides were competing in the same division. Their last visit to the Enclosed Ground in September 2017 finished with the Darts running out 4-0 winner. Alfie Pavey scored after eight minutes and by half-time the visitors had three when Ryan Hayes and Elliot Bradbrook added another two. It took until the last minute for the lead to be extended further when Lyle Della-Verde grabbed the fourth. The reverse fixture continued Dartford’s good recent run against the Sussex side. The Darts won 3-1 at Princes Park with a goal from Ronnie Vint and a brace from Andy Pugh.

Shaun Saunders returned to the Whitehawk managerial post at the back end of November. It was the Darts that halted his unbeaten start of five games, but Saunders has guided the Hawks out of trouble in his time there. Since taking over at the Enclosed Ground, the Hawks have climbed off the bottom of the table and are now sixteenth. Saunders has managed to win almost half of the league games since his appointment and looks set for another year in the Isthmian Premier.

At home the Hawks have won their last two without conceding beating Bognor Regis Town and Carshalton Athletic. Nandhra netted twice against the Rocks either side of Geofrey Okonkwo’s goal. Whilst against the Robins, Jordan Maguire-Drew bagged both in a 2-0 victory. However, their last outing ended in defeat at Hashtag United. Maguire-Drew found the back of the net again, but the Tags came from behind with goals from Andronicos Georgiou and Joe Christou condemning the Hawks to a fourth defeat in six.

Current League Table (Top 5)

Team	Played	Points	GD
DARTFORD	38	77	+28
Billericay Town	38	75	+32
Horsham	38	75	+30
Dover Athletic	38	71	+33
Cray Valley (PM)	38	68	+19

Current League Form

Dartford (WLWWWD)			Whitehawk (LLLWWL)
Folkestone Invicta	H	2-2	Hashtag United	A	1-2
Dulwich Hamlet	A	3-0	Bognor Regis Town	H	3-0
Bognor Regis Town	A	2-0	Carshalton Athletic	H	2-0
Hastings United	H	2-0	Folkestone Invicta	A	0-1
Lewes	A	1-3	Chatham Town	H	0-2
Horsham	H	2-1	Wingate and Finchley	A	1-3

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 6 / Whitehawk wins: 3 / Draws: 0

Previous Six Meetings

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)
Dartford 3 – 1 Whitehawk (04/02/2017 – National South)
Whitehawk 1 – 0 Dartford (10/08/2016 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 4 Whitehawk (12/03/2016 – National South)

Statistics

Sam Odaudu made his 100th appearance for the Darts last weekend (95 starts, 5 goals)
Josh Hill will make his 100th start if selected this weekend (made 107 appearances and 9 goals)
Dartford have won the last four fixtures against Whitehawk with an aggregate score of 14 – 3
The winning side has kept a clean sheet in all three fixtures at the Enclosed Ground (W2, L1)

On This Day

Dartford moved closer to the Isthmian Division One North title on this day in 2008. A five star display in front of 1338 supporters saw the Darts ease past Tilbury. Eddie McClements curled the hosts ahead and Jay May scored a couple of headers before the break. Jamie Coyle added two more in the second half and a week later the Darts were crowned champions. In 1975, Dartford recorded their highest ever scoring draw when they drew 5-5 with Stourbridge in the Southern Premier League. That wasn’t even enough to break the club record as games against Reading Reserves (1926 – Southern League East Section) and Erith Avenue (1891 – Kent Junior Cup) ended with the same scoreline!

Dartford v Folkestone Invicta

April 3, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Title ambitions continue for Dartford when they host Folkestone Invicta in the Isthmian Premier this weekend.

Leading the table by a single point, the Darts have five games to hold their nerve as they bid for a return to the National South at the first attempt. Although a draw will secure a playoff place on Saturday, Adrian Pennock’s side know realistically a victory will move Dartford one step closer to their target.

Folkestone Invicta will be the first of three Kent derbies remaining for the Darts in the regular season. Invicta are mid-table and set for a tenth consecutive campaign in the Isthmian Premier when August comes around again, by which time they will have Jay Saunders in charge.

The Darts recorded another away win last time out when they beat Dulwich Hamlet 3-0 in front of a full house. George Whitefield returned to the starting lineup replacing Luther Williams, who along with Louis Dunne wasn’t in the matchday squad. Dunne has now missed the last two games with a strain. Although it took a while to settle into the match, Dartford ran out comfortable winners and were set on their way when Hayden Bullas opened the scoring. Callum Jones doubled the lead before the interval and the striker netted another to seal the victory. Since defeat at Lewes, the Darts have taken maximum points in their last three fixtures taking pole position.

Assistant manager, Roland Edge called last weekend’s result ‘a fantastic victory’, and was pleased with his team’s display, he told Dartford FC TV: “You know when you come to Dulwich, if you don’t perform you go away with nothing. I thought as a team performance it was one of the best of the year so far, which means loads as well because pressure is coming. We know where we are in the league, and we know what we’ve got to do”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

For the final promotion Dartford’s management team are sticking to the same message for their squad, Edge commented: “You’ve got to go out there and believe first and foremost. They have done well; they are top of the league for a reason. If they can maintain what they have done for the majority of the season, then they will end there”.

Despite the pressure a title race can bring the assistant boss urged his players to ‘go and enjoy’ the run in and work hard, he added: “In the next five games they’ve just got to roll their sleeves up and fight. Everyone is tired, everyone in the league is tired, mentally and physically now. We’ve just got to work as hard as we can and see where we end up”.

Dartford won the reverse fixture against Folkestone Invicta just before the Christmas period. The Darts had started to find their groove, approaching the match unbeaten in ten, but were made to scrap it out at Cheriton Road and take a 1-0 away victory. In an even contest it took until almost ten minutes from time for Jones to break the deadlock. Invicta struggled to clear their lines, Michael Olarewaju kept the ball alive to find Jones, who scored the winner from close range.

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Match Highlights courtesy of Invicta TV

It’s been just over 21 years since Dartford last hosted a league game against Folkestone Invicta and that didn’t end well at all. In the days when the Darts played their home games at Stonebridge Road, Invicta ran out 6-1 winners during the 2003/2004 Southern League Division One East campaign. Just over a fortnight later Dartford lost the return match 1-0.

Sandwiched between those fixtures and this season’s win, the Darts have met Invicta in cup competitions. Most notably the Kent Senior Cup Final in May 2022 when Dartford lifted silverware after a 6-2 triumph. Samir Carruthers was part of that side with second-half goals coming from Luke Allen, Ali Mansaray, Connor Essam, a brace from Ade Azeez and Danny Leonard.

In the early part of March and with Folkestone Invicta still hoping for a playoff push, the club parted company with Andy Drury. The former boss was at Cheriton Road since November 2023 and steered Invicta away from relegation last term. Since Drury’s departure, former Folkestone Invicta player Tim Dixon has been in charge. This week the club announced former Tonbridge Angels boss, Jay Saunders as the new manager on a four year deal. Originally due to take charge in August, the Angels have since let Saunders leave early. At the time of writing it has yet to be confirmed if he will be in the away dugout this weekend.

In the time Dixon has been interim manager he has guided his team to a single victory in four matches at the helm. Dixon’s first match finished in a 3-1 defeat at home to Chichester City, in which former Dartford midfielder Jack Jebb came off injured and has not featured since. Jebb made 67 appearances for the Darts scoring nine goals during his time at Princes Park. At the same venue Invicta beat Whitehawk four days later with Daniel Smith scoring the only goal of the game.

Since their last victory Folkestone Invicta have lost two in a row. They were beaten 1-0 on the road by Cheshunt and last weekend they lost against Chatham Town. In a squad that featured former Darts, Ade Yusuff and Luke Allen, Invicta went down 3-1 with Amadou Kassarate netting for Invicta. Yusuff was with Dartford this season and scored one goal in six appearances, whilst Allen departed in the summer after playing 123 games for the Darts and scoring 15 times.

Current League Table (Top 5)

Team	Played	Points	GD
DARTFORD	37	76	+28
Billericay Town	37	75	+34
Horsham	37	72	+29
Cray Valley (PM)	37	68	+17
Dover Athletic	37	66	+32

Current League Form

Dartford (LWLWWW)			Folkestone Invicta (DWLWLL)
Dulwich Hamlet	A	3-0	Chatham Town	H	1-3
Bognor Regis Town	A	2-0	Cheshunt	A	0-1
Hastings United	H	2-0	Whitehawk	H	1-0
Lewes	A	1-3	Chichester City	H	1-3
Horsham	H	2-1	Bognor Regis Town	A	2-1
Cheshunt	A	0-3	Potters Bar Town	H	1-1

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 8 / Folkestone Invicta wins: 10 / Draws: 4

Previous Six Meetings

Folkestone Invicta 0 – 1 Dartford (21/12/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 6 – 2 Folkestone Invicta (17/05/2022 – Kent Senior Cup Final)*
Dartford 4 – 0 Folkestone Invicta (25/02/2020 – Kent Senior Cup)
Folkestone Invicta 1 – 4 Dartford (07/12/2011 – Kent Senior Cup)
Dartford 2 – 2 Folkestone Invicta (12/09/2006 – Isthmian League Cup)**
Dartford 1 – 2 Folkestone Invicta (18/01/2005 – Kent Senior Cup)
* played at Chatham Town
** Dartford won 5-3 on penalties

Statistics

Dartford have won their last four games against Folkestone Invicta in all competitions
The Darts beat Invicta in December for the first time in the league since 1998, ending a run of five straight league losses against their opponents
Callum Jones was the first Dartford player to score more than once in a game since Boxing Day, when Olly Box bagged a brace against Cray Wanderers.
The Darts have kept three clean sheets in a row for first time since October 2020. Last time Dartford kept four in a row was in April 2018.

On This Day

Charlie Sheringham and Ryan Hayes helped Dartford into the Kent Senior Cup Final on this day in 2011. Sheringham scored twice against Ramsgate before Hayes added a third. The Darts went on to lift the county cup a month later.

Three years ago in the same competition, Dartford defeated Margate 4-2 in the quarter final. Luke Allen opened the scoring, but that was cancelled out by Margate’s James Bessey-Saldanha. In the second-half, Kalvin Kalala put Dartford back in front, Ade Azeez added a third and Ody Alfa a fourth. There was still time for Vance Bola to pull one back for Margate. Once again the Darts went on to win the Kent Senior Cup.

Dartford’s last home game on this day was back in 2010 when they beat Canvey Island in the Isthmian Premier. Danny Harris and Elliot Bradbrook both scored to move the Darts within three points of claiming the title.

Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford

March 27, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford lead the way in the Isthmian Premier heading in to the final six games and next up is an away trip to Dulwich Hamlet this weekend.

The Darts returned to the top of the table last time out after winning at Bognor Regis Town. Victory on the Sussex coast ended a two game losing streak on the road and with Billericay Town falling to defeat it moved Adrian Pennock’s side back to the summit. Despite Dulwich Hamlet’s lowly position in the league, Dartford have yet to beat them this season after a draw in December and a F.A Trophy loss in October. Hamlet have lost their previous two matches and although they are nine points clear of the relegation places, they are not completely out of the woods just yet.

Pennock made just the one change to the starting lineup for the journey to Nyewood Lane on Saturday. Louis Dunne was suffering from a strain and made way for Hayden Bullas in midfield. Jez Pinder was missing from the matchday squad through illness. The Darts recorded a consecutive 2-0 triumph against a Sussex side after beating Hastings United a week earlier at Princes Park.

This time an early goal settled any nerves, and a late clincher wrapped up what the Dartford boss described as an ‘ugly win’. In the sixth minute, a well worked free-kick saw Sam Odaudu run over the dead ball before a pass down the side by Samir Carruthers put the full back through on goal to finish. The Darts defence was rarely threatened all afternoon and with five minutes to go, Callum Jones swivelled in the box to fire in his 12th goal of the season in all competitions.

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Match highlights courtesy of Rocks TV

Dartford are now the frontrunners for the title holding a one point advantage over Billericay Town and just four points ahead of third place Horsham. Whilst that brings its own pressure to the side, Pennock is not getting carried away, he told Dartford FC TV: “We’ve got some hard games, so we’re not counting our chickens yet. It’s going to be difficult, but it’s just nice that we’re in this position because we are punching above our weight. With everybody connected to the football club we’re going in the right direction”. With Dulwich Hamlet next on the horizon, the Darts boss in concentrating on what his players can achieve on the weekend, he commented: “It’s all about us, we’ve got to turn up. We have played very well against Dulwich this year, but they are still a very good side”.

Dartford will have to watch out for former player Luke Wanadio, who has netted in both fixtures against the Darts this term. The forward made 99 appearances and netted 18 goals whist at Princes Park and was Hamlet’s match winner back in October’s F.A Trophy tie. However, the reverse fixture in the league finished 2-2 and saw the Darts take control, lose a lead then salvage a point. Jones opened the scoring, but on the stroke of half-time Wanadio levelled. Ralfi Hand put Hamlet ahead in the second-half until Olly Box equalised.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

This fixture has often seen former players returning to face their old club. Back in December, Josh Hill captained the Darts against his old side. Meanwhile, as well as Wanadio, Dulwich Hamlet also had Jordan Wynter, Danny Mills and George Porter in the matchday squad.

It’s been six years since Dartford lost to Dulwich Hamlet in league competition, a run of eight matches. The last visit to Champion Hill ended in a 2-1 victory in October 2022. The hosts went in front after six minutes when Nana Owusu scored. Just before the interval, Marvin Herschel was brought down for a penalty which Samir Carruthers converted. With six minutes remaining, the Darts made the most of a corner delivered into the box by Carruthers. Charlie Sheringham was there to meet the ball, and his header earned the visitors maximum points.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dulwich Hamlet have some breathing space for now with Hendon occupying the last relegation spot nine points adrift of the London side. However, Bradley Quinton’s side take on Cray Valley Paper Mills after the Darts in a tough couple of weeks. After that Hamlet face Bognor Regis Town, who are in the relegation zone, then Canvey Island, who are point behind them in the division before their final two fixtures.

At Champion Hill, Hamlet have been a lot better than results on the road. This season they have won half of their home matches in the Isthmian Premier compared with just two away victories. Their last three outings have all ended 1-0 with only one of those going Hamlet’s way. A rare victory on their travels against Potters Bar Town was followed with consecutive defeats to Cheshunt and Dover Athletic.

Current League Table (Top 5)

Team	Played	Points	GD
DARTFORD	36	73	+25
Billericay Town	36	72	+30
Horsham	36	69	+28
Cray Valley (PM)	36	65	+15
Dover Athletic	36	63	+31

Current League Form

Dartford (WLWLWW)			Dulwich Hamlet (DLDWLL)
Bognor Regis Town	A	2-0	Dover Athletic	A	0-1
Hastings United	H	2-0	Cheshunt	H	0-1
Lewes	A	1-3	Potters Bar Town	A	1-0
Horsham	H	2-1	Hashtag United	A	3-3
Cheshunt	A	0-3	Lewes	H	1-3
Hendon	A	3-2	Hastings United	A	0-0

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 6 / Dulwich Hamlet wins: 4 / Draws: 5

Previous Six Meetings

Dartford 2 – 2 Dulwich Hamlet (14/12/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 0 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (05/10/2024 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 3 – 0 Dulwich Hamlet (01/04/2023 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 2 Dartford (08/10/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (08/01/2022 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 0 – 2 Dartford (28/08/2021 – National South

Statistics

Dartford have won the last two league games at Champion Hill and are unbeaten in the last three visits
The Darts have kept 15 clean sheets in the league this season, the joint highest with Horsham
Dartford have won all their away games against teams currently in the bottom five. If they beat Dulwich Hamlet that record will extend to the bottom six.

On This Day

Danny Harris and Max Cornhill were the goalscorers 11 years ago when the Darts beat Macclesfield Town 2-1 in the National League. The visitors took the lead at Princes Park when Paul Turnball volleyed from long range. Harris nodded home Lee Noble’s corner and Cornhill scored from close range. That was just Dartford’s second win on this day in the last 13 outings. Surprisingly, Dartford have never won an away match on 29 March in 18 attempts, they have managed five draws in that time.

Bognor Regis Town v Dartford

March 21, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford return to Sussex when they take on Bognor Regis Town in the Isthmian Premier this weekend.

Just like last Saturday the Darts need the points as much as their opponents. Adrian Pennock’s side are chasing down Billericay Town at the top and hoping to put their title rivals under pressure. Bognor Regis Town are at the other end of the table trying to dig themselves out of the bottom four and avoid relegation.

It’s the fourth game in a row in which Dartford have faced a side from Sussex and their last visit to the county ended in a second consecutive away defeat. A fortnight ago, the Darts were beaten 3-1 by Lewes at the Dripping Pan, but fortunately they didn’t lose ground as the top three all lost as well. However, Dartford remain in the hunt for automatic promotion thanks to recent home form where they have taken maximum points against Horsham and Hastings United.

The Darts showed astonishing character in the 2-1 home victory over third place Horsham to start the month. A goal down with three minutes remaining, Dartford turned the match around with goals from George Whitefield and substitute Eddie Dsane. Previously at Princes Park, the Darts didn’t need to leave it late and pretty much wrapped up the points a lot earlier.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Last weekend, Pennock made a couple of changes to the side that were beaten by Lewes. Louis Dunne replaced Hayden Bullas in the midfield, whilst Luther Williams was chosen ahead of George Whitefield at the back. Dartford were two up against Hastings United before the interval and that’s how the score stayed. Just before the half hour mark, Samir Carruthers’ curling effort was heading just wide, but former Hastings United full back Sam Okoye headed the opener in at the far post. The defender’s first goal for the club came in his 36^th appearance. Ten minutes before half-time the hosts won a penalty, which Carruthers confidently chipped down the middle.

Dartford were comfortable throughout but couldn’t add more goals in the second half, yet the team took joy in keeping a 14th clean sheet in the league this season. Roland Edge spoke to Dartford FC TV after the win and said: “We controlled the game well. Possibly we should have been a bit more clinical in the final third. Regardless of winning 2-0, a clean sheet was what they were cheering about, which is nice to see, a bit of pride at the back”.

Victory stretched an unbeaten run at home to 12 and in that time the Darts have picked up an impressive ten victories at Princes Park. With seven games to go, Dartford are only two points behind the league leaders and a dozen clear of sixth place. Edge explained that at some point they will need to call on the depth of the squad, he commented: “We are a good squad; we’ve maintained that all the way through the year. The boys that do go onto the bench, they still focus completely on coming on and making a difference”.

The assistant manager added: “It’s never nice to be left out, but those boys that come in on Tuesday and Thursday will work hard and hopefully get back into the team. With seven games to go, it may sound daft, but people start to get leggy and tired and luckily for us we’ve got quality on the bench to change things up”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

So as second place Dartford take on second from bottom Bognor Regis Town, Edge is not expecting the hosts this weekend to be easy, he exclaimed: “You analyse everyone when you’re in management and Bognor have been on some pretty good form. They’ve taken points off some good sides, they are not going to roll over, they are fighting to stay in this league, they’ve got a good manager, it’ll be a tough test”.

Loanees, Dunne and Bullas made their home debuts in the last meeting with Bognor Regis Town. Back in December, the Darts dominated the Rocks with a convincing first half display. Racking up their biggest half time lead in three years, Dartford scored four times. Denzelle Olopade pounced on a rebound, Olly Box doubled the advantage, Whitefield made it three and Josh Hill netted his first since returning to the club.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Final day drama and mixed emotions are evoked when the Darts visit Nyewood Lane. Once again Dartford travel to Bognor Regis during a title race, only Saturday won’t be the ultimate decider. It was heartbreaking on the final day of the 2017/2018 season when Tony Burman’s side needed to better Havant and Waterlooville’s result to become National South champions. Danny Mills and Ronnie Vint scored for the Darts and Ollie Pearce pulled one back for the hosts. With Havant and Waterlooville drawing going into the last minute, former Dartford striker Jason Prior scored a last gasp winner for the Hawks to snatch the title away from Burman’s side.

Happier memories were made eight years earlier when the pressure was off. Already crowned Isthmian Premier champions, Dartford celebrated on the coast during the last game of the 2009/2010 campaign. Jamie Coyle scored the Darts’ 100^th league goal of the season and Lee Noble sealed a 2-0 triumph.

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Match Highlights courtesy of the late sonytino

Bognor Regis Town are up against the odds as they approach their remaining seven fixtures. The Rocks need to make up 12 points to stay in the Isthmian Premier or they will be back at step four for the first time since 2012. With just six league wins all season, the Sussex club has the leakiest defence in the division. If they are going to get themselves out of the trouble then they will be hoping Tommy-Lee Higgs can continue scoring goals, he has 22 of them this term.

A heavy 7-1 defeat to Chatham Town at the end of November spelt the end for former manager Robbie Blake. The ex-Burnley striker departed with the Rocks at the bottom with just three wins and three draws. By mid-December, Jamie Howell and Michael Birmingham were announced joint managers. Last weekend was a marker of the improvement the pair have made when they drew 1-1 with Chatham Town, meaning the Rocks have lost just one of their last five. Over the same number of games as their predecessor, Howell and Birmingham have picked up two more points with eight of those coming in the last five outings.

It was Higgs’ equaliser that earned Bognor Regis Town a draw against the Chats a week ago having fallen behind through a Freddie Sears goal. Captain, Calvin Davies picked up a caution that will rule him out of the next three games. For the Rocks, Dartford will be the third Kent side they have faced in a row having lost to Folkestone Invicta 2-1 a fortnight ago. Former Dart, Jack Jebb put Invicta ahead and Matthias Fanimo made it two. Jasper Mather pulled one back for the hosts in their last home match.

Leading up to the previous two fixtures, Bognor Regis Town went three unbeaten claiming vital victories against fellow strugglers Canvey Island as well as Bowers and Pitsea. The Islanders were swept aside by the Rocks who scored four without reply. Whilst Pitsea were beaten by a single goal netted by Higgs from the spot. The most entertaining game came after those triumphs though. A 4-4 draw with Carshalton Athletic saw Bognor Regis Town squander a three-goal lead built up in the opening 18 minutes to go behind. Four minutes into second half stoppage time Higgs levelled to earn a point.

Current League Table (Top 5)

Team	Played	Points	GD
Billericay Town	35	72	+32
DARTFORD	35	70	+23
Horsham	35	66	+27
Cray Valley (PM)	35	65	+18
Dover Athletic	35	60	+30

Current League Form

Dartford (DWLWLW)			Bognor Regis Town (LWWDLD)
Hastings United	H	2-0	Chatham Town	A	1-1
Lewes	A	1-3	Folkestone Invicta	H	1-2
Horsham	H	2-1	Carshalton Athletic	A	4-4
Cheshunt	A	0-3	Bowers & Pitsea	H	1-0
Hendon	A	3-2	Canvey Island	A	4-0
Chichester City	H	0-0	Billericay Town	H	0-3

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 6 / Bognor Regis Town wins: 1 / Draws: 4

Previous Six Meetings

Dartford 4 – 0 Bognor Regis Town (07/12/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Bognor Regis Town 1 – 2 Dartford (28/04/2018 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 1 Bognor Regis Town (07/10/2017 – National South)
Bognor Regis Town 0 – 2 Dartford (24/04/2010 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 3 Bognor Regis Town (07/11/2009 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 1 – 1 Bognor Regis Town (02/05/1981 – Southern League South)

Statistics

Dartford are currently on a seven-game unbeaten run against Bognor Regis Town stretching back almost 45 years (W4, D3)
The Darts have won their last four against the Rocks with an aggregate score of 11-2
Dartford have won in their last two visits at Bognor Regis Town, both on the final day of the season
The Darts have kept 14 clean sheets in the league this season, the joint highest with Horsham

On This Day

Two is the magic number on the 22 March. In Dartford’s last three matches on this day a player has scored twice in a game. Alex Wall scored a brace against Hyde in the National League 11 years ago. The striker headed his first just after half-time and added another against the already relegated side. In 2011, Charlie Sheringham netted two against St Albans City in a 2-2 draw, Ryan Hayes missed a last-minute penalty to win the match. However, it was Hayes who scored twice three years earlier in a 2-1 victory over Ware in the Isthmian Division One North title winning campaign.

Dartford v Hastings United

March 13, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Title chasing Dartford host relegation threatened Hastings United in the Isthmian Premier this weekend.

Both sides have their eyes on maximum points for different reasons. The Darts aim to catch leaders Billericay Town. Dartford not only missed an opportunity to go top last weekend, but they were also fortunate not to lose ground after the top three in the division all lost. Meanwhile, Hastings United claimed a vital victory in their ‘six pointer’ last Saturday, but fell to defeat in midweek. The U’s need wins in their quest for survival.

Adrian Pennock’s side were beaten for a second time in three games last weekend. Samir Carruthers had to take his place on the bench in the 2-1 victory over Horsham because he was caught up in traffic. The midfielder was back in the starting lineup for Dartford’s trip to Lewes in the only change to the side, Louis Dunne moved to the bench.

Once again the Darts went behind and this time it was a deflected Danny Bassett shot which beat Jacob Marsden in the Dartford goal. However the visitors were back level early in the second half when Hayden Bullas took a shot that broke for defender Michael Olarewaju for his first Dartford goal. With ten minutes remaining Marcus Sablier put away a second for the hosts. The same player wrapped things up for the Rooks in injury time as the Darts pushed for an equaliser and were caught out.

During their long unbeaten run Dartford were close to equalling the club record of consecutive away wins. Now they have lost two in a row on their travels for the first time since October.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Sam Okoye came off injured just moments before Lewes went back in front and was replaced by Tyler Christian-Law. It remains to be seen if the pair will face their former club this weekend.

Dunne made his debut in the reverse fixture against Hastings United and the midfielder tasted a 3-0 win. Olly Box earned a penalty, which Carruthers scored. The midfielder was replaced by Jez Pinder just past the hour mark. The substitute made an impact ten minutes later slotting home a pass from Box. Eddie Dsane was introduced and then he added a third.

It’s been 15 years since Princes Park hosted this fixture and last time it was a seven goal thriller. Ryan Hayes scored directly from a corner to get Dartford’s 100th competitive goal of the 2009/2010 season. Ade Olorunda equalised, but Danny Harris nodded the hosts back in front. In the second half, Hastings United went in front when Liam Bellamy and Olorunda scored. Tony Burman’s side fought back after Harris made it all square again. Then late on Elliot Bradbrook grabbed a dramatic winner. The Darts went on to claim the Isthmian Premier League title.

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Match Highlights courtesy of the late sonytino

In October Hastings United parted with manager Danny Bloor and two months later appointed former Braintree Town, Aldershot Town and Ebbsfleet United manager, Danny Searle. Fortunes have yet to turn around as the U’s have not beaten anyone outside of the bottom four since early December. That victory against Chichester City came a week after the defeat to Dartford. Since then the U’s have only managed to win at Bognor Regis Town at the end of December and last weekend against Hendon.

In a crucial fixture between two sides down in the relegation zone, Hastings United came out on top with a 2-0 triumph over Hendon. Former Dartford forward, Davide Rodari scored eleven minutes into the game. The 25 year old made 21 appearances for the Darts in 2022/2023 scoring three times. Just before the hour Reece Grant put more daylight between the two and sealed victory. Maximum points meant the U’s capitalised on results elsewhere as seven of the bottom nine lost last weekend, the Sussex side were the only team to win.

On Tuesday night Hastings United tried to close the gap and make one of their games in hand count. Seven points adrift of safety and three behind Hendon, the U’s hosted Wingate and Finchley. Searle made no changes to the side that beat Hendon in their Tuesday night fixture against Wingate and Finchley. Captained by former Dartford loanee, Adam Lovatt who played just five times for the Darts, the U’s found themselves one down at the interval after Zack Newton’s goal half way through the first half. It took until the last minute for Ore Bello to seal the deal for the Blues condemning Hastings United to defeat.

Hastings United still have a chance to stay up with nine games remaining. The Sussex club are three points behind Hendon with a game and hand and seven behind Canvey Island, who are above the relegation places. The U’s face the Essex side twice in the final stretch.

Current League Table (Top 5)

Team	Played	Points	GD
Billericay Town	34	69	+29
DARTFORD	34	67	+21
Horsham	34	63	+26
Cray Valley (PM)	34	62	+17
Dover Athletic	33	60	+32

Current League Form

Dartford (WDWLWL)			Hastings United (LDDLWL)
Lewes	A	1-3	Wingate & Finchley	H	0-2
Horsham	H	2-1	Hendon	H	2-0
Cheshunt	A	0-3	Chatham Town	A	0-2
Hendon	A	3-2	Cray Valley (PM)	A	1-1
Chichester City	H	0-0	Dulwich Hamlet	H	0-0
Hashtag United	H	2-0	Cheshunt	A	1-2

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 39 / Hastings United wins: 29 / Draws: 20

Previous Meetings

Hastings United 0 – 3 Dartford (30/11/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 4 – 3 Hastings United (27/03/2010 – Isthmian Premier)
Hastings United 1 – 3 Dartford (22/08/2009 – Isthmian Premier)
Hastings United 0 – 0 Dartford (03/03/2009 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 2 Hastings United (13/09/2008 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 0 – 2 Hastings United (23/08/2008 – Isthmian Premier)

Statistics

Dartford have won four of the last five games against Hastings United in all competitions (D1)
The Darts have won the last two at home against Hastings United. Those two matches have produced an average of six goals per game
Dartford have conceded the first goal in each of the last four matches

On This Day

Jack Jebb was involved in both goals as the Darts beat Chelmsford City 2-1 on this day in 2022. The midfielder scored direct from a free kick, then set up Danny Leonard from another set piece. The Clarets pulled one back through Tom Blackwell. Dartford reached the Kent Senior Cup Final on this day in 1988 with a 2-0 semi-final win over Welling United. The Darts went on to lift the county cup to defend their title. Eleven years earlier the Darts won another semi-final in the Southern League Cup to reach the final of the competition for the first time. With the tie against Kettering Town evenly poised from the first leg, Dartford went on to win 4-2 to secure a 5-3 aggregate victory. The Darts won the final against Yeovil Town.

Lewes v Dartford

March 6, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford are heading to the Dripping Pan to take on Lewes in the Isthmian Premier this weekend.

The Darts travel to Sussex after getting back to winning ways last time out. Now they will be determined to pick up maximum points and put their previous away day defeat behind them. Lewes set the early pace this season but have since dropped to mid-table. The Rooks look set for another campaign in the Isthmian Premier barring an incredible late surge into the playoffs.

Dartford’s main aim is to keep pressure on table toppers Billericay Town. Victory at the Dripping Pan will return Adrian Pennock’s side back to the summit should the leaders fall to defeat at home against Chichester City.

Pennock’s decisions paid off big time last weekend in the dramatic late win at Princes Park. The Dartford boss described the game as “a great advert for the league” when speaking to Dartford FC TV after the victory. Looking to bounce back from the loss at Cheshunt, the Darts hosted third place Horsham with both sides challenging for the league title. The tough fixture was a test for a Dartford side who had seen their tremendous 21 league game unbeaten run ended a week earlier.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In defence, the reliable Luther Williams was named as a substitute and in came George Whitefield against fellow title challengers Horsham. Whilst, Samir Carruthers made way for Louis Dunne in midfield. Former Hornet, Eddie Dsane had to be patient and wait his turn to be introduced later in the match.

Dartford faced adversity in the first half with the visitors the better side. Jake Elliott deservedly put Horsham in front before Jacob Marsden and his crossbar kept the Darts in the game. Dartford’s Callum Jones had his penalty save, but the hosts were off the pace.

In the second half Pennock brought on Carruthers and Jez Pinder to gain some midfield control as well as Eddie Dsane to help push for a leveller. Those changes were significant as explained by Pennock: “Our fitness levels told; we kept knocking on the door and our second half performance was excellent. I think the first half we were just going a little bit too long, we needed to get that extra pass in”. The introduction of Carruthers aided Dartford’s passing game. The twist came three minutes from time. A low cross by Sam Odaudu found Whitefield to tap in at the far post for the equaliser. Two minutes later, Carruthers sent in a free kick and Dsane was there to score the winner. The Darts are now unbeaten at Princes Park since October spanning 11 games.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Despite defeat on the road a fortnight ago, the Darts had been on a brilliant run of eight consecutive away victories in the Isthmian Premier. Pennock and company will be hoping to start another winning streak on Saturday, but to do that Dartford will need all the help they can get, Pennock commented: “Lewes is a very tough place to go to, but we want our supporters to be backing us because they were excellent again (last weekend).”

A home win against Lewes in November turned out to be the fifth match unbeaten in Dartford’s long undefeated spell. A dominant display against the Rooks ended in a 2-0 triumph. After a number of squandered chances by the Darts, Olly Box opened the scoring in the first half. Just before an hour was played Whitefield put daylight between the hosts and the visitors, scrambling in the second. Lewes were later reduced to ten men after Ethan Kaiser received a second yellow card.

Dartford last visited the Dripping Pan over 14 years ago in a match that ended all square. Tony Burman’s side had to leave it late to rescue a point after Paul Olima put Lewes in front. Tom Bonner hit a low drive to level in injury time. The only other visit was back in January 1983 when Dartford won a F.A Trophy first round tie 2-0. The Darts went on to reach the last eight without conceding a goal.

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Highlights courtesy of the late sonytino

Lewes won their opening six games and seven of their first nine to start the campaign as the pacesetters. Sitting top of the table with 20 points from a possible 24 gave the Rooks optimism. However, since then they tasted victory just three times in the league over the next 23 games, picking up ten draws on the way.

The Rooks finally won back-to-back Isthmian Premier games again to end February and begin March. In their last home fixture Lewes beat Hendon 1-0. Captain, Danny Bassett scored an early goal to earn the hosts maximum points. Last weekend they went to Dulwich Hamlet and claimed a 3-1 win after coming from behind. Hamlet led through Amaru Kaunda, but three second half goals made sure Lewes came away with another three points. Ollie Starkey and a late brace from Bassett sent the Sussex club home happy.

Current League Table (Top 5)

Team	Played	Points	GD
Billericay Town	33	69	+30
DARTFORD	33	67	+23
Horsham	32	63	+27
Cray Valley (PM)	33	59	+15
Dover Athletic	32	57	+30

Current League Form

Dartford (WWWDWL)			Lewes (WDLLWW)
Horsham	H	2-1	Dulwich Hamler	A	3-1
Cheshunt	A	0-3	Hendon	H	1-0
Hendon	A	3-2	Billericay Town	A	2-4
Chichester City	H	0-0	Potters Bar Town	H	2-3
Hashtag United	H	2-0	Cray Valley (PM)	A	0-0
Bowers and Pitsea	A	3-1	Hastings United	A	1-0

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Lewes wins: 0 / Draws: 1

Previous Meetings

Dartford 2 – 0 Lewes (23/11/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 0 Lewes (26/03/2011 – National South)
Lewes 1 – 1 Dartford (30/10/2010 – National South)
Lewes 0 – 2 Dartford (15/01/1983 – F.A Trophy)

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten against Lewes in four games (W3, D1)
Substitutes have contributed to 15 goals for Dartford this season and seven of those have come in the last ten games
The Darts have gained 17 points from losing positions, six of those have come in their last two victories.

On This Day

Dartford have won their last three on this day all in the Kent Senior Cup and in each season went on to lift the county cup. A Jordan Greenidge brace saw off Dover Athletic 2-1 three years ago. Ronnie Vint and George Sykes scored in another 2-1 win, this time against Greenwich Borough in 2016. Whilst in 2011, the Darts swept aside Whitstable Town 6-1 with goals from Danny Harris, Jon Main, two from Adam Burchell, Tom Bonner and Charlie Sheringham. Dartford’s last road trip in the league was in 2009 when Brendon Cass netted in a 1-1 draw with Bury Ton in the Isthmian Division One North title winning campaign. In all competitions, Dartford are unbeaten in their last 12 games on this day winning nine and drawing three. The last defeat was in 1969 and that is only the third loss in 27 games on the 8 March.

Dartford v Horsham

February 28, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford hope to return to winning ways in a crucial clash against Horsham at Princes Park this weekend.

The Darts were surprisingly toppled last time out ending an incredible unbeaten run of 21 matches, equalling a club record for games without defeat in the league. Defeat allowed Saturday’s opponents, Horsham to close the gap on the Darts to a single point. With the top three separated by just three points, this weekend’s fixture will have an impact on the title race.

Both sides have been able to put strong runs together putting them into the mix for promotion to the National South. Last time they met back in December, the Darts were about to start a record equalling ten game winning streak. Despite being beaten by Adrian Pennock’s side, Horsham bounced back with eight straight victories of their own.

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Match highlights courtesy of Hornets TV

The Hornets went in front that day when Charlie Hester-Cook hit a powerful long-range effort over Dartford goalkeeper, Jacob Marsden. The Darts were level when Samir Carruthers found space in the home side’s box and calmly finished. In the second-half, the midfielder sent Olly Box through on goal, who composed himself before giving the Darts the lead. Three points were wrapped up with eight minutes remaining, Denzelle Olopade fired a low shot through a crowd of players.

Dartford have won their previous four against Horsham, the last four all away from home. Darren McQueen and Luke Allen netted in the 2-0 F.A Cup win six years ago. An Elliot Bradbrook brace and a third from Allan Tait secured a 3-1 victory in March 2010. Princes Park last hosted the Hornets that same season on the opening day of the Isthmian Premier League campaign. The visitors scored first when Russell Eldridge’s free-kick beat Andrew Young. Then an 11 minute second-half spell changed the game. Bradbrook scored on his debut, then shortly afterwards won a penalty which Adam Flanagan dispatched. Bradbrook added his second of the afternoon before Pat Harding pulled one back for Horsham.

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Match Highlights courtesy of the late sonytino

Having taken maximum points in the last eight away games, the Darts were hoping to match their winning run on the road from 15 years ago when they visited Cheshunt last Saturday. Pennock brought Carruthers back into the side, the midfielder’s first start since the 4-0 win over Billericay Town last month. Box also returned to the starting lineup after his substitute appearance in the 3-2 victory against Hendon. Jez Pinder and Eddie Dsane dropped to the bench.

It looked as though the Darts were going to go into the interval all square until Cheshunt’s Donell Thomas broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time. The ambers doubled their advantage when Kenny Coker scored and a third followed from a penalty courtesy of Vas Vasiliou.

Dartford manager Pennock called the defeat in Hertfordshire ‘a bad day at the office’ and felt Cheshunt were worth their win, he spoke to Dartford FC TV after the 3-0 loss and said: “I thought they deserved it. I thought that in both boxes they were very good. First half we asked a lot of questions, but they were defending for their lives. You’ve got to give them credit they were, in both boxes, better than us”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Pennock doesn’t want his team to get downhearted after such a fantastic run coming to a halt, but now he must prepare the Darts for a challenging fixture this weekend, he commented: “It’s going to be a cracker because they (Horsham) are flying as well. If we can get a good crowd behind us, like we have done recently…hopefully we will get back on the horse”.

Since defeat at home to the Darts, Horsham have lost just once in their last 14 games, dropping just four points. In that run they have defeated both title contenders Dover Athletic and Billericay Town. The Hornets added another victim to their list of challengers last weekend by overcoming Cray Valley Paper Mills.

Former Dart, Chris Dickson was in the lineup against Cray Valley Paper Mills. The striker played eight games for Dartford scoring three goals during the 2020/2021 season. The 40-year-old was the only change to the side that drew with Chatham Town a week earlier replacing Greg Luer. Meanwhile, Jack Brivio was out with a long-term knee injury and Lee Harding is recovering from an ankle wound that needed stitches. A goal from Reece Meekums and a penalty by James Hammond helped the Hornets to a 2-1 victory. Former Horsham player, Tom Beere reduced the deficit towards the end of the game.

The home win was the Hornets sixth in seven games. On the road, the Sussex club have lost just one of their last seven and that was in their previous trip to Kent. Horsham were beaten 3-0 by Folkestone Invicta just over a month ago, but they did claim maximum points in their only other away fixture since defeating Whitehawk.

Current League Table (Top 5)

Team	Played	Points	GD
Billericay Town	32	66	+27
DARTFORD	32	64	+22
Horsham	31	63	+28
Cray Valley (PM)	31	57	+15
Dover Athletic	31	56	+30

Current League Form

Dartford (WWWDWL)			Horsham (LWWWDW)
Cheshunt	A	0-3	Cray Valley (PM)	H	2-1
Hendon	A	3-2	Chatham Town	H	1-1
Chichester City	H	0-0	Whitehawk	A	2-1
Hashtag United	H	2-0	Hastings United	H	1-0
Bowers and Pitsea	A	3-1	Dulwich Hamlet	H	3-0
Billericay Town	H	4-0	Folkestone Invicta	A	0-3

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 7 / Horsham wins: 2 / Draws: 2

Previous Meetings

Horsham 1 – 3 Dartford (17/12/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Horsham 0 – 2 Dartford (21/09/2019 – F.A Cup)
Horsham 1 – 3 Dartford (18/03/2010 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 2 Horsham (15/08/2009 – Isthmian Premier)
Horsham 3 – 2 Dartford (18/02/2009 – Isthmian League Cup)
Horsham 0 – 3 Dartford (24/01/2009 – Isthmian Premier)

Statistics

Dartford have won six of the last seven games against Horsham in all competitions (L1)
The Darts are unbeaten in all four home matches versus Horsham (D1)
Dartford are ten matches unbeaten at home (D3). Their longest run without a league defeat at Princes Park since the 2022/2023 season

On This Day

Dartford have never lost a league match at home on this day winning six out of seven. An fortunate own goal handed the Darts a 1-0 win against Basingstoke Town in 2011. Lee Noble hit a shot from 25 yards, which was tipped onto the crossbar by visiting goalkeeper, Chay Morris. The ball dropped onto retreating defender Callum Reynolds, rolled down his chest and over the line.

Dartford left it late three years earlier in the race for the Isthmian Division One North title. On the verge of dropping crucial points, the Darts won a penalty against Waltham Forest during injury time. Jamie Coyle kept his cool to score the only goal of the game and bag all three points for the hosts.

The only side to visit Dartford and come away with anything in the league was Waterlooville in 1997. The Hampshire club drew 2-2 in the Southern League South. The Darts are winless in their last three games on this day. Brentford B won a London Senior Cup quarter-final tie 2-0 at Princes Park three years ago. Dartford drew 2-2 at Hayes and Yeading United in the National South back in 2016 and lost 3-0 at Southport two years earlier in the National League.

Cheshunt v Dartford

February 21, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford have another opportunity to create history when they visit Cheshunt on the weekend.

The Darts will set a new club record of unbeaten league games if they avoid defeat on Saturday and extend their current sequence to 22 matches. Last time out Dartford were made to work for their eighth away win in a row when they took maximum points to stay top of the Isthmian Premier. Another victory on the road will also set a joint best winning away streak in league competition for the Darts.

Dartford came from behind last Saturday in their 3-2 win at Hendon. The Darts have been in such fine form that they’ve rarely needed to claim points after conceding the first goal. In fact, the last time Adrian Pennock’s side had to turn an Isthmian Premier match around was on Boxing Day, in the Kent derby victory over Cray Wanderers, nine league fixtures ago.

There was plenty going on during last weekend’s game. The Darts dropped from first to third and back again, all before a hectic seven-minute period in the second half at the Silver Jubilee Stadium. Pennock made three changes to the side that drew 0-0 with Chichester City bringing in Eddie Dsane, Jez Pinder and Sam Okoye for Olly Box, Louis Dunne and George Whitefield. Creative midfielder, Samir Carruthers was back in the squad after being out with a hamstring injury and made a big impact.

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Match Highlights courtesy of HendonFCOfficial

Even though the pack had been shuffled following three games in a week, the Darts still managed to negotiate their way to victory, but it was far from simple. Battling against relegation, Hendon deservedly led at the break after Nikolai Krokhin scored for the hosts. The twist and turns of the second half started within five minutes of the restart. Denzelle Olopade equalised, then on loan Hayden Bullas netted his first for the Darts. Hendon drew level again through Leo Sery, but on 57 minutes Carruthers converted from the penalty spot for the decisive goal.

A record Dartford will want to maintain this weekend is their perfect one against Cheshunt. The Darts have come out on top in the previous three meetings winning the reverse fixture back in November. A dominating first half display saw the Darts lead at half-time thanks to a Carruthers penalty. In an even second half, the visitors equalised through Tommy Wood. Then 19-year-old, George Whitefield scored a stunner from long range to secure a 2-1 triumph.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Both sides met in the National South during the 2022/2023 season with the Darts winning 2-1 at Princes Park. Pierre Fonkeu scored a brace that made all the difference. Former Dartford academy graduate, Dajon Golding scored a late consolation for the visitors. In the return match, the Darts were helped by a former player when Rowan Liburd scored an own goal. Luke Coulson and Tom Bonner extended the lead before a consolation from the Ambers.

Cheshunt have had mixed results this term, but form has improved since Boxing Day to pull them eight points clear of the relegation zone. In October, long serving manager Craig Edwards departed after defeat against Potters Bar Town. The loss left the Ambers second from bottom with five points from their opening eight games. A fortnight later former Hampton and Richmond Borough boss, Mel Gwinnett was appointed, and he has since moved the Hertfordshire side up to 15th in the table, eight points clear of safety. The new manager will want to improve form at home, where the Ambers have only beaten sides currently in the bottom three.

Gwinnett made eleven changes prior the Hertfordshire Senior Cup semi-final defeat over a week ago. Three of those players, Darion Furlong, Magloire Muyembe and Christian Scott were the only trio retained for last weekend’s fixture against Cray Wanderers. It was all looking good for the visitors when former Wand, Kenny Coker put the Ambers ahead. However, the hosts turned fortunes around with two goals from Nyren Clunis then Soul Kader.

In their last home game, Cheshunt ended a run of four without victory at Theobalds Lane. A last-minute effort from Coker got the Ambers back to winning ways with a 2-1 victory. The home side had to come from behind after former Dartford forward, Davide Rodari gave relegation threatened Hasting United a first-half advantage. Jack Munns levelled for Cheshunt just past the hour mark, then Coker decided the game in injury time.

Current League Form

Dartford (WWWWDW)			Cheshunt (WWLDWL)
Hendon	A	3-2	Cray Wanderers	A	1-2
Chichester City	H	0-0	Hastings United	H	2-1
Hashtag United	H	2-0	Hendon	H	2-2
Bowers and Pitsea	A	3-1	Hashtag United	A	0-1
Billericay Town	H	4-0	Canvey Island	A	1-0
Wingate & Finchley	A	2-1	Potters Bar Town	A	2-1

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Cheshunt wins: 0 / Draws: 0

Previous Meetings

Dartford 2 – 1 Cheshunt (09/11/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Cheshunt 1 – 3 Dartford (07/01/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Cheshunt (13/08/2022 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in 21 league games, their joint best run since the 2007/2008 Isthmian Division One North title winning season.
The club record for unbeaten matches in all competitions stands at 23 set in 1995/1996
The Darts have won eight away games in a row first time since 2016/2017, but that was in all competitions. Last time Dartford won eight in a row in the league was in 2009/2010, when they went a record nine matches.

On This Day

Danny Harris and Lee Noble were on target as the Darts defeated Dorchester down in Dorset in 2011. The National South fixture finished 2-0 to the visitors and is Dartford’s last away win on this day.

Three years later, former Football League side Hereford United visited Princes Park in the National League and were beaten by goals from Alex Wall and Noble.

Five years ago, the Darts won against Eastbourne Borough back in the National South. Jack Jebb’s opener was cancelled out by Greg Luer, but Darren McQueen netted a penalty in a 2-1 victory.

Dartford’s last game on this day ended in an away loss at Hungerford Town in which manager, Steve King and Junior Tiensia were sent off. Jake Robinson scored a late consolation for the Darts.

Dartford FC Previews

Cray Wanderers v Dartford

Dartford v Dover Athletic

Whitehawk v Dartford

Dartford v Folkestone Invicta

Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford

Bognor Regis Town v Dartford

Dartford v Hastings United

Lewes v Dartford

Dartford v Horsham

Cheshunt v Dartford

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