Month: February 2023

Dartford v Haringey Borough

February 28, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford have the chance to reach the London Senior Cup semi-final for the first time when they host Haringey Borough.

However, in the only other meeting between the two sides, the Borough scored in the last minute to cause a cup upset back in December 2020. The Darts with home advantage and a division higher were beaten 1-0 in the F.A Trophy third round, Alfred Bawling was the Haringey hero when he headed in from Roman Michael-Percil’s cross. The Borough went on to lose the next round to Dartford’s last opponents, Oxford City.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Haringey Borough (19/12/2020) – Dartford FC TV

Alan Dowson made one change to the team that beat Slough Town 1-0 a week ago bringing Maxwell Statham back into the side for winger Malachi Napa. Guaranteed second spot regardless of their result against an in form Oxford City, the Darts were hoping to gather momentum and add to their four match unbeaten run in the National South. Dartford’s mission was accomplished and although they were unable to breach the visitor’s defence, they did manage to keep a fourth clean sheet in a row at Princes Park. Since joining the Darts, goalkeeper Ben Dudzinski has yet to concede at home and against Oxford City he can thank his teammates in front of him for a solid display.

The 0-0 draw keeps Dartford six points clear of Oxford City in the league and moves them seven ahead of Havant and Waterlooville in fourth. The Darts have now won three and drawn three in their last seven outings in all competitions. The only reverse coming in the Kent Senior Cup against Ebbsfleet United who are now 13 points clear at the National South summit.

Haringey Borough had lost five of their last six games in all competitions ahead of their home match against relegation strugglers Brightlingsea Regent on the weekend. After defeating Hastings United towards the end of last month, the Borough were beaten by title chasers Bishop Stortford then drew versus Potters Bar Town in the Isthmian Premier. Another clash with the Scholars three days later finished in a League Cup exit, then three league defeats on the spin at home to Bognor Regis Town and Canvey Island plus one on the road at Billericay Town has seen the the London club going through a dismal patch.

However, the Borough ended their poor run of form in style on Saturday with a 6-1 victory. Six different scorers found the back of the net and it was Erald Desa who started the rout when he tucked away his own rebound to send the hosts a goal up at half-time. Two goals in five early second-half minutes open the floodgates, first Rakim Richards then Ben Allen made it 3-0 and just past the hour Stef Georgiou added a fourth. The goals kept flowing as Callum Ismail and Josiah Bridgeman extended the lead before Brightlingsea Regent’s Jermaine Anderson managed a consolation.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Tooting and Mitcham United (18/10/2022) – Dartford FC TV

The Darts progressed to the last eight of the London Senior Cup with a victories over Tooting and Mitcham United in October and Metropolitan Police a month ago. Dowson has used the county cups to rest players and integrate academy stars and so far they have performed well. Goalkeeper Tom Wray and defender George Whitefield have started in every senior cup game this term, whilst Jayden Boulton, Ali Mansaray, Jude Russell, Sam Archibald, Archie Panyi and Ollie Box have all featured at some point.

Yet to concede in the London Senior Cup, the Darts progressed from round one thanks to a winning goal from Alex Wall against Tooting and Mitcham United. It took until the 63rd minute for Dartford to break the deadlock and it came when Davide Rodari’s excellent pass was finished by Wall. The players patience paid off in the end after having tow efforts ruled out for offside prior Wall’s winner. In the second round Dowson’s side were able to end Metropolitan Police’s cup run. Once again the Darts had to wait until just after an hour for their opener. This time midfielder, Keiran Murtagh got on the end of Luke Allen’s ball to give the hosts the lead. Virtually from the last kick of the game the advantage was doubled through Pierre Fonkeu from close range.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Metropolitan Police (31/01/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Haringey Borough had a bye in the first round and won 3-1 against Glebe in round two. Chaynie Fage-Burgin bagged a brace and Scott Durojaiye added one from the penalty spot before the visitors pulled a goal back. The Borough negotiated their way past the Southern Counties Premier East division side avoiding an upset to reach the quarter-final. Last term, Haringey Borough went one step further by getting to the semi-final, but defeat to Hendon denied them a final appearance against Dartford’s conquerors Brentford B.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 0 / Haringey Borough wins: 1 / Draws: 0

Current Form (all competitions)

Dartford (DLWDWD)			Haringey Borough (DLLLLW)
Oxford City	H	0-0	Brightlingsea Regent	H	6-1
Slough Town	H	1-0	Billericay Town	H	1-3
Braintree Town	A	1-1	Canvey Island	H	1-2
Chippenham Town	H	2-0	Bognor Regis Town	H	2-5
Ebbsfleet United (KSC)	A	1-2	Potters Bar Town (LC)	A	1-3
Welling United	A	2-2	Potters Bar Town	H	2-2
KSC = Kent Senior Cup / LC = League Cup

Previous Meeting

Dartford 0 – 1 Haringey Borough (19/12/2020 – F.A Trophy)

Statistics

Dartford have kept four home clean sheets in a row for the first time since December 2019/January 2020
The Darts last kept five consecutive home clean sheets during the 1990/91 season
In cup competitions, Alan Dowson has won two and lost three as manager of Dartford

On This Day

Dartford posted a 7-0 win on this day 36 years ago when they thrashed King’s Lynn in the Southern Premier League. In contrast not a single goal was scored in their last outing on this day, a 0-0 Kent derby draw with Welling United in 2017. The Darts beat Tooting and Mitcham United at Princes Park in 2009 with Rob Howard scoring a brace in a 3-1 triumph. In 1934, a 3-0 semi-final replay win over Northfleet United saw the Darts reach the Kent Senior Shield final.

Dartford v Oxford City

February 24, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford host one of the form teams of the National South on the weekend as they take on playoff contenders Oxford City.

The Darts are concentrating on second place in the division at the moment and are in a tussle with a few teams for that spot. After a creditable away draw in Essex last Saturday, Dartford added three points to their total on Tuesday night. Oxford City also took to the field in mid-week and came close to a sixth consecutive victory in their last outing.

Manager, Alan Dowson sensed tiredness among some of the players last weekend and decided to make four changes to the starting eleven against Slough Town. Keiran Murtagh and Malachi Napa were introduced to the midfield replacing Luke Allen and Samir Carruthers. Full back, Maxwell Statham was given a break allowing Isaac Ogundere to make his debut since joining on loan from AFC Wimbledon. Alex Wall returned for his three game ban leading the line instead of Pierre Fonkeu. Goalkeeper, Ben Dudzinski retained his place despite his error at Braintree Town, the shot stopper was signed from Oxford City this month and could face his former club.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Slough Town (21/02/2023) – Dartford FC TV

Murtagh justified his selection with an early goal, his second in his last three starts in all competitions. Once again Luke Coulson’s delivery earned the winger yet another assist as Murtagh headed home. The returning Alex Wall had an effort in the back of the Slough Town net, but it was ruled out for offside in the first-half. The 1-0 win secured a third victory and third clean sheet in a row at Princes Park after beating Metropolitan Police in the London Senior Cup and Chippenham Town in the league, the Darts are now four unbeaten in the National South since the double defeat to Hemel Hempstead Town and Worthing last month.

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Match Highlights – Oxford City v Dartford (22/11/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Earlier in the season, the Darts drew 1-1 with Oxford City. Tom Bonner returned from suspension to head the Darts in front at Marsh Lane. However, on Archie Mair’s goalkeeping debut, the Darts were unable to hold out when Canice Carroll equalised three minutes from time. At the same venue last term, it was Reice Charles-Cook making his debut in goal for the Darts. On this occasion Joe Iaciofano equalised for Oxford City after an early Marcus Dinanga penalty gave Dartford the lead.

The last meeting at Princes Park finished 0-0 in November 2021 and coincidentally Bonner had also finished a suspension back then coming back into the side. This time it will be Carruthers turn to sit out the fixture against Oxford City for reaching ten yellow cards, he will start a two match ban. Charlie Sheringham will be out as the striker recovers from his rib injury, Sam Odaudu and Tommy Block have also been unavailable. Cameron Brodie, who was recalled from his spell at Margate has now gone back out on loan to Ashford United.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Oxford City (13/11/2021) – Dartford FC TV

Unbeaten in the National South in 2023, Oxford City won six consecutive matches prior their fixture on Tuesday night. Manager, Ross Jenkins made one change to their lineup when the Hoops travelled down to Taunton Town, Alfie Potter replaced Klaidi Lolos. January’s National South Player of the Month, Josh Parker also started, but failed to finish the full ninety after being sent off for two cautions. The striker has scored eight in his last 11 league appearances and netted 17 in all competitions this term. Like Murtagh, Potter repaid his boss with a goal, taking advantage of Josh Ashby’s shot which rebounded off the post. Taunton Town denied the Hoops maximum points with a late leveller courtesy of David Sims-Burgess.

Oxford City’s away record hints at inconsistency on the road, but in truth three of their five league defeats on their travels came in consecutive games back in September. At the end of that spell the Hoops won four and lost four leaving them in eleventh place level on points with Dartford. Whilst the Darts found consistency in picking up wins, Oxford City became difficult to beat by earning draws. The Hoops went on to finish level in half of their next 20 matches. Now, manager Ross Jenkins has helped his team turn those stalemates into victories and are now six points behind the Darts.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 8 / Oxford City wins: 3 / Draws: 6

Current League Form

Dartford (LLDWDW)			Oxford City (WWWWWD)
Slough Town	H	1-0	Taunton Town	A	1-1
Braintree Town	A	1-1	Worthing	H	3-0
Chippenham Town	H	2-0	Welling United	H	3-0
Welling United	A	2-2	Hungerford Town	A	3-1
Worthing	A	0-3	Weymouth	H	3-1
Hemel Hempstead Town	H	1-3	Concord Rangers	A	2-1

Last Six Meetings

Oxford City 1 – 1 Dartford (22/11/2022 – National South)
Oxford City 1 – 1 Dartford (02/04/2022 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 0 Oxford City (13/11/2021 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 0 Oxford City (11/01/2020 – National South)
Oxford City 0 – 1 Dartford (12/10/2019 – National South)
Oxford City 2 – 1 Dartford (27/04/2019 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford are five games unbeaten against Oxford City (W2, D3) and have kept three clean sheets in those matches
The Darts have never lost to Oxford City at Princes Park (W5, D3)

On This Day

Ryan Hayes scored his 99th goal for the Darts five years ago and it came against Oxford City. The winger netted in the 70th minute at Marsh Lane to put Dartford in front, but a stoppage time equaliser by debutant Ezra Forde made sure the points were shared. Dartford have not lost on this day since defeat against rivals Maidstone United in 1978. The unbeaten run on 25 February was stretched to eight in 2020 when the Darts beat Folkestone Invicta 4-0 to reach the Kent Senior Cup semi-final. Liam Nash, Tyrique Hyde, Billy Crook and Elliott Romain scored that evening in a competition Dartford went on to win belatedly. One of the four victories in the current sequence was against Bishop Auckland in the F.A Trophy last eight. Colin Johnson and David Myers netted the goals in a 2-0 win. Bishop Auckland had both substitutes sent off within a minute of each other as the game drew to a close.

Dartford v Slough Town

February 21, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

The first of three consecutive home games takes place on Tuesday night with Dartford hosting Slough Town in the National South.

Two league games and the London Senior Cup quarter-final will bring February to a closure for the Darts. Alan Dowson’s side will be hopeful they can extend their unbeaten run in the league to three and close the gap at the top of the table. Slough Town will be trying to end a run of two straight defeats and put more distance between them and the bottom four.

After fighting back twice in the Kent derby draw with Welling United and beating Chippenham Town, the Darts claimed another useful point at Cressing Road on the weekend. Once again Dartford found themselves behind but managed to find the equaliser at Braintree Town, who themselves kept their unbeaten home run intact. Dowson was forced in to making one change due to the rib injury to Charlie Sheringham, meaning Pierre Fonkeu led the attack. New loan signing from AFC Wimbledon, Isaac Ogunbere took his place on the bench but awaits a debut after not being called upon. There was still no sign of Tommy Block and Sam Oduadu in the squad, the pair have been out with injuries. The good news is Alex Wall has served his three match ban and will be available against Slough Town, bringing a much needed option up front. Midfielder, Cameron Brodie has been recalled from his loan spell with Margate.

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Match Highlights – Braintree Town v Dartford (18/02/2023) – Dartford FC TV

The hosts took the lead in the first-half after Ben Dudzinski in his second start for Dartford made a crucial mistake in goal. Braintree Town’s Baris Altintop set up Aaron Blair, who cut inside and drilled a low shot at Dudzinski. The Darts keeper watched as the ball slide underneath him out of his grasp and into the net. Slick football led to the equaliser just past the hour with Keiran Murtagh, Luke Coulson, Samir Carruthers and Maxwell Statham combining before Jernade Meade finished off the move with his first ever goal for the club.

Dowson was content with the 1-1 away draw, he explained to Dartford FC TV: “It’s a tough place to come and they have got a decent side, their home record speaks for itself. The first half I though we were poor, the second half brilliant. We had enough chances and enough possession to win it”. Midfielder, Carruthers picked up a caution and he will face a two match ban starting next weekend making him available for Tuesday. However the Dartford boss feels some ‘tweaks’ will be needed against Slough Town so he can make use of the squad, he added: “A couple of people need a little rest, they have played every week in the last six weeks. So I think a couple of people need a rest on Tuesday night”.

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Match Highlights – Slough Town v Dartford (25/10/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Dartford are on good form in games against Slough Town and earlier in the campaign they came from behind to win 2-1 at Arbour Park. The Rebels took the lead through Josh Jackman and continued to be in front at the interval. In the second-half, Dowson tweaked the side with the introduction of Fonkeu and that proved pivotal later on. Sheringham scored to put Dartford on level terms, then Fonkeu won it for the Darts.

Last season at Princes Park, saw the first competitive fans back in front of fans since March 2020 and Dartford celebrated with a 3-0 win. Noor Husin gave a masterclass in midfield and his man of the match performance was rewarded with a goal. Ade Azeez scored the second and George Porter scored his first goal for the club. The return fixture last term went even better as the Darts claimed their second 6-0 away win of the season. Marcus Dinanga got the goals flowing early on before Murtagh doubled the lead, then Dinanga added a third by half-time. Kalvin Kalala, Jordan Greenidge and Olumide Durojaiye netted in the second-half to wrap up a comprehensive win.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Slough Town (21/08/2021) – Dartford FC TV

Since promotion to the National South in 2018, Slough Town have been steady. Led by Jon Underwood and Neil Baker, the duo began this season in their tenth year with the Rebels, but in November with the club in twelfth the club felt it was time for a change. Now Scott Davies is in charge as player-manager and after a run of seven matches unbeaten from Boxing Day steadied the Rebels once again. Davies took over during a spell which saw the Berkshire winless in 12 picking up just three draws, and his league management debut was humbling to say the least, the Rebels lost 5-1 at home to Eastbourne Borough. Defeat at Ebbsfleet United followed, but Davies picked up his fist point with a goalless draw versus Concord Rangers. Then after a loss to Havant and Waterlooville, Slough Town went on to claim three victories and four draws to move up the standings.

The Rebels have lost their last fixtures without scoring, first against Chelmsford City, then on the weekend versus a George Alexander inspired Welling United. The Wings loanee netted a first half hat-trick as Slough Town fell to a 3-0 defeat. Alexander started his scoring spree in the fourth minute firing a low shot beyond goalkeeper Will Dennis. Half an hour later he added a second and completed his treble within the next three minutes. In Slough Town’s starting eleven was Temi Eweka, who started out at Dartford’s academy. The 23-year-old defender made three appearances for the Darts before moving on. After impressing at Bracknell Town he was signed by Maidenhead United in the summer and is now on loan with the Rebels.

On the road, Slough Town have only beaten Oxford City of the sides above them in the table. However they have consistently beaten those below them home and away helping them stay six points clear of the drop zone in sixteenth place.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 8 / Slough Town wins: 3 / Draws: 3

Current League Form

Dartford (WLLDWD)			Slough Town (WDDWLL)
Braintree Town	A	1-1	Welling United	H	0-3
Chippenham Town	H	2-0	Chelmsford City	A	0-2
Welling United	A	2-2	Hampton & Richmond	A	1-0
Worthing	A	0-3	Dover Athletic	H	1-1
Hemel Hempstead Town	H	1-3	Cheshunt	A	1-1
Cheshunt	A	3-1	Dulwich Hamlet	H	4-3

Last Six Meetings

Slough Town 1 – 2 Dartford (25/10/2022 – National South)
Slough Town 0 – 6 Dartford (30/04/2022 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 0 Slough Town (21/08/2021 – National South)
Slough Town 2 – 2 Dartford (15/12/2020 – F.A Trophy)*
Dartford 2 – 0 Slough Town (21/11/2020 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Slough Town (03/10/2020 – F.A Cup)
* – Dartford won 6-5 on penalties

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in five games against Slough Town in normal time (W4, D1)
The Darts have won the last two meetings at Princes Park with an aggregate score of 5-0
Dartford completed a double over the Rebels last term with an aggregate score of 9-0

On This Day

It’s been 25 years since Dartford won on 21 February back when Havant and Waterlooville had not yet merged. The Darts travelled to Hampshire in 1998 to take on Havant Town and came home with a 1-0 Southern League South victory. That was the last of an unbeaten run of 13 games on this day in which the Darts won ten and drew three. The biggest victory came in 1914 when Dartford beat Rochester 8-0 in the Kent League. In 1931, the Darts won 5-0 against Chatham in the Kent Senior Cup quarter-final. On the way to winning the 1989 Southern League Cup, Dartford beat rivals Dover Athletic 4-1 in the last eight. Dartford are currently on a run of three consecutive losses after defeats to Tonbridge Angels in 2004, Ashford Town (Middlesex) five years later and Wealdstone in a F.A Trophy replay in 2012.

Braintree Town v Dartford

February 17, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford could be the first team to win at Cressing Road this season in a difficult fixture against Braintree Town on the weekend.

The Darts have not beaten the Iron away in ten and half years, but will be hoping to end that run and record consecutive victories to maintain some pressure at the top of the table. Recent dropped points left Dartford under pressure to keep hold of second spot in their last outing. So last weekend’s victory against Chippenham Town was much needed, especially when their opponents needed the points just as much at the other end of the table. Braintree Town finished last weekend in the playoff places and on Tuesday night extended their unbeaten league run at home to sixteen.

If the festive season put Dartford in the title race, the three subsequent matches has seen top spot seem further away. After beating Havant and Waterlooville, the Darts double over rivals Ebbsfleet United, then the win at Cheshunt all put Alan Dowson’s men within a shot of winning the league. However, consecutive defeats at home to Hemel Hempstead Town, away at Worthing and a draw on the road at Welling United has seen the Darts fall further behind. So, the 2-0 triumph over Chippenham Town was welcomed by Dowson, he told Dartford FC TV after the match: “Before the game, what I’ve sensed in the last couple of weeks is we’ve been on a bit of an indifferent run. So, I knew we needed three points and I also thought we needed a clean sheet just to give us belief, we got both”, he added: “When we played football in their half, we done it very well. We defended better, but it wasn’t about the performance it was about the result”.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Chippenham Town (11/02/2023) – Dartford FC TV

Dowson made two changes for the Chippenham Town game to the line-up that started the 2-2 draw with Welling United. Luke Allen made an impact by scoring his third of the campaign replacing Jamar Loza. Goalkeeper, Ben Dudzinski came in for Dan Wilks and celebrated his debut with a clean sheet, Dartford’s first since the 4-0 win over Ebbsfleet United on New Year’s Day. Connor Essam also had cause to celebrate reaching his 100^th appearance. The defender has started 95 times for the Darts and made five substitute appearances over three spells for the club. Midfielder, Jack Smith netted his second in a week with an early strike against the Bluebirds, his fourth of the season came in the second minute after yet another assist from Luke Coulson. The winger was also on hand to set up Luke Allen to double the advantage securing all three points.

Charlie Sheringham, who netted in the reverse fixture back in November will be out after picking up a rib injury against Chippenham Town. Tommy Block is waiting for his debut since joining from Hampton and Richmond Borough, Sam Odaudu has been side-lined since Boxing Day and Alex Wall serves his last of a three-match ban for his red card at Worthing. That may give a chance for Pierre Fonkeu to lead the line who has scored nine goals in 21 starts and 14 substitute appearances this term in all competitions. Defensively, the Darts have gone back in to the loan market and brought in Isaac Ogunbere from AFC Wimbledon on a months loan. The right back made his Dons debut in August and has played nine times for the League Two side. The 20-year-old has previously had loan spells with Leatherhead and Potters Bar Town.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Braintree Town (05/11/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Dartford had often struggled against Braintree Town in the past, but this season they won 4-1 at Princes Park with an outstanding second-half display. Sheringham netted from the spot five minutes after the break and the game could have turned after Tom Bonner was sent off for a second caution. However, Dartford stretched their lead when Luke Coulson scored a goal of the season contender. Braintree Town pulled a goal back with just over ten minutes to play, the header from Kyran Clements testing Dartford’s resolve. Dowson introduced Samir Carruthers and Keiran Murtagh and the pair combined for a third in the last minute, Carruthers finishing off a fine move. Then there was time for Carruthers to score the second penalty of the afternoon.

The last visit to Cressing Road saw Dartford fight back from two goals down to nick a draw. A stunning free kick from Jack Jebb with the last kick of the game drew the Darts level as the game finished 2-2. Earlier, Gabriel Piorkowski scored from a fine long-distance effort and Gio Crichlow doubled the lead. Jake Robinson’s spot kick gave Dartford hope before Jebb’s late equaliser. The Iron won the reverse fixture in May with Harry Lodovika scoring the only goal.

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Match Highlights – Braintree Town v Dartford (28/12/2021) – Dartford FC TV

Braintree Town headed back into the playoff places on the weekend with a 1-0 win in an Essex derby against Concord Rangers. The Iron could have gone ahead earlier when former Dartford striker Alfie Pavey won a penalty, however Lamar Reynolds’ attempt was saved. Reynolds made amends by being the provider for the decisive goal scored by Aaron Blair. Transfer listed by Dover Athletic’s new boss, Pavey signed for Braintree Town at the beginning of this month. He has made a promising start with his new club. On debut the 27-year-old was involved in both goals against Chippenham Town as the Iron won 2-1 in Wiltshire. In the Essex Senior Cup, he helped the Iron overturn a two-goal deficit and reach the semi-final by scoring one in the 3-2 victory over Colchester United. Then on Tuesday night, Pavey scored and assisted in a 3-2 victory over Dulwich Hamlet. The ex-Dart had three spells at Princes Park, two of which were on loan. But it was the 2017/2018 campaign that stood out with 27 goals in 46 appearances.

Angelo Harrop’s side are now only one of four teams in the top six divisions to be unbeaten at home in all competitions. In the league they have won nine and drawn seven on their own patch and have not lost in their last six outings home and away. In fact, the Iron have been difficult to beat, only tasting defeat three times in the National South since their visit to Princes Park back in November, although they have drawn almost half of those matches.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Braintree Town wins: 8 / Draws: 5

Current League Form

Dartford (WWLLDW)			Braintree Town (WDDWWW)
Chippenham Town	H	2-0	Dulwich Hamlet	H	3-2
Welling United	A	2-2	Concord Rangers	H	1-0
Worthing	A	0-3	Chippenham Town	A	2-1
Hemel Hempstead Town	H	1-3	Cheshunt	H	1-1
Cheshunt	A	3-1	Tonbridge Angels	A	0-0
Ebbsfleet United	H	4-0	Bath City	H	2-1

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 4 – 1 Braintree Town (05/11/2022 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Braintree Town (02/05/2022 – National South)
Braintree Town 2 – 2 Dartford (28/12/2021 – National South)
Braintree Town 2 – 1 Dartford (09/01/2021 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Braintree Town (24/08/2019 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Braintree Town (06/05/2018 – National South Playoff)

Statistics

Dartford’s win over Braintree Town in November was their biggest victory against the Essex club
The Darts have gone 13 games without a clean sheet versus the Iron and have yet to keep consecutive league cleans sheets this season
Dartford are five without victory at Cressing Road, last winning ten years ago (D2, L3)

On This Day

Alex Wall scored twice on this day in 2014 as Dartford claimed their only win on in their last six on 18 February. Struggling in the National League, the Darts surprisingly thrashed Woking 5-1 after coming from behind. Scott Rendell gave the Cards an early lead in the fourth minute, but Wall equalised almost immediately. The striker add a second on the stroke of half-time. Then it was Max Cornhill’s turn to grab a brace before right at the end Lee Noble added extra gloss to the scoreline. Exactly two years earlier Woking beat the Darts 1-0 at the Kingfield Stadium. In 1995, Dartford were involved in an eight goal thriller beating Furness 5-3 in the Kent League.

Dartford v Chippenham Town

February 10, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford are up against a recent bogey side when they host relegation threatened Chippenham Town in the National South this weekend.

The Darts have failed to beat the Bluebirds in their previous four attempts and have only won two of the last eight meetings. Dowson’s side ended a two-game losing streak in the league in their last National South outing by drawing in the Kent derby with Welling United. Chippenham Town are in the bottom four but have seen improved results since Boxing Day until defeat at home to Braintree Town last weekend.

When the two sides played earlier in the season, the Bluebirds recorded their second victory of the campaign at Hardenhuish Park. Three defenders combined for Dartford’s opener with Connor Essam sending in a cross to Tom Bonner who headed across goal for Maxwell Statham to nod in his first for the club. Just before the interval Alefe Santos won a penalty, then just about scored it. Goalkeeper, Joe Young spilt the ball before scrambling back to make a save, the match official decided the ball had crossed the line despite protests from the Dartford players. With the points looking like they will be shared the hosts won a free-kick in the final minute, Jordan Young scored to hand Chippenham Town all three points.

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Match Highlights – Chippenham Town v Dartford (03/09/2022) – Dartford FC TV

The Wiltshire club visited Princes Park on two occasions last term claiming a 3-3 draw in November 2021 before knocking the Darts out of the playoffs on penalties. Dartford came from behind to lead at the break, then twice gave up their advantage fifteen months ago. Dan Griffiths had the visitors in front until Ade Azeez equalised and Noor Husin put Dartford ahead. Ricky Aguiar hit back for the Bluebirds, but Azeez added his second. In the final minute Luke Russe levelled once more in an entertaining fixture. After a 4-2 away defeat four months later, the Darts faced Chippenham Town for a third time during the 2021/2022 campaign. The deadlock could not be broken in the playoff eliminator with neither side finding the back of the net. The tie went to penalties, which the Bluebirds won 3-2.

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Match Highlights – Welling United v Dartford (04/02/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Azeez was heavily involved during Dartford’s last league match albeit for the opposition. The former striker hit the post in the first half before Welling United went in front through George Alexander. It took a while for the Darts to get going in the local derby and they were level when Charlie Sheringham scored. Azeez putt the hosts in front when his shot crashed down from the underside of the crossbar, the referee deciding the ball crossed the line. Dartford showed character to fight back again, this time Malachi Napa confidently finishing from a Samir Carruthers through ball. The draw ended a run of two consecutive league defeats for Dartford.

Dartford’s defence of the Kent Senior Cup ended on Tuesday night with a 2-1 defeat to Ebbsfleet United. The Darts were unable to make it three victories over their local rivals this season losing their first Kent Senior Cup match for four years, a run of eight games. Former Dart, Darren McQueen set up Shaq Coulthirst for the first and scored Fleet’s second before Jack Smith finished a well worked Dartford move. Dowson made many changes to give opportunities to academy players and those on the fringes of the first eleven.

Only Smith and Jamar Loza were retained in the starting lineup from the draw with Welling United. Luke Allen and Pierre Fonkeu both made appearances from the bench on Saturday and along with Keiran Murtagh started in the London Senior Cup a week earlier. Youngsters Tom Wray, Jude Russell and George Whitefield were also involved against Metropolitan Police and they were chosen by Dowson again. Obi Onyeagwara made his Dartford debut, the teenager has had previous experience with Stevenage and Biggleswade Town. Kristian Campbell and Alex Wall returned to starting eleven, the latter will miss the game against Chippenham Town as he serves the second of his three-match ban.

Dartford have used four goalkeepers in all competitions this term and welcome new signing Ben Dudzinski. The former Oxford City keeper was released by the club after making 80 appearances over three campaigns. Selected in the National South Team of the Year last season, the 27-year-old has also represented Hartlepool United, Havant and Waterlooville ad Sutton United. Dan Wilks has held down the number one jersey, but a spell out with injury saw Dowson use the loan market and bring in first, Joe Young then Archie Mair. Whilst Tom Wray has been preferred to start in the county cups as well as the F.A Trophy. Wilks has featured in the last six league games, but Dudzinski, who kept 13 clean sheets last season will provide competition.

Chippenham Town have lost just one of their last six, although half of those have been draws. Prior their current run they only picked up two points from a possible 30 and in that time they slipped from tenth to 22nd in the standings. Despite defeat to Braintree Town in their last outing, the Bluebirds have seen results improve. Former Dart, Alfie Pavey was involved in both of Jo Boachie’s goals as Braintree Town went in at half-time two up. The Bluebirds pulled a goal back when on his debut Owen Windsor scored two minutes from time.

Scoring goals has been an issue for Chippenham Town with just 23 in 25 games. Despite their lowly league position they have only conceded two more than the Darts. So it’s no wonder manager, Gary Horgan has recently signed two strikers. Windsor signed from West Bromwich Albion having had spells with Carlisle United, Newport County and Grimsby Town. The 21-year-old has also been loaned out to Taunton Town and Cirencester Town. Matt McClure won the National North golden boot two years ago, the former Maidstone United, Aldershot Town and Wycombe Wanderers striker joined from Gloucester City and made his home debut last weekend.

Leading up to the loss against the Iron, Chippenham Town earned away wins at Chelmsford City, a month ago and at Bath City on Boxing Day. They drew two more on their travels against Braintree Town and bottom of the table Hungerford Town. Saturday’s game was Chippenham Town’s first home match since New Year’s Day, in which they drew 0-0 with Bath City to begin the year. Home postponements during January means the Bluebirds have games in hand to try and gain enough points to get out of the relegation zone.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Chippenham Town wins: 3 / Draws: 4

Current League Form

Dartford (WWWLLD)			Chippenham Town (WDDWDL)
Welling United	A	2-2	Braintree Town	H	1-2
Worthing	A	0-3	Hungerford Town	A	1-1
Hemel Hempstead Town	H	1-3	Chelmsford City	A	1-0
Cheshunt	A	3-1	Bath City	H	0-0
Ebbsfleet United	H	4-0	Braintree Town	A	1-1
Ebbsfleet United	A	4-1	Bath City	A	3-1

Last Six Meetings

Chippenham Town 2 – 1 Dartford (03/09/2022 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 0 Chippenham Town (12/05/2022 – National South Playoff)*
Chippenham Town 4 – 2 Dartford (12/03/2022 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 3 Chippenham Town (06/11/2021 – National South)
Chippenham Town 1 – 2 Dartford (27/10/2020 – National South)
Chippenham Town 1 – 5 Dartford (01/02/2020 – National South)
* Chippenham Town won 3-2 on penalties

Statistics

Dartford have drawn their last three home games with Chippenham Town in regular time and are winless in four.
The Darts have only one once at Princes Park in this fixture, which was in the first ever meeting between the two sides.

On This Day

Dartford scored four times without reply down at Gosport Borough six years ago. Andy Pugh, Luke Wanadio, Keaton Wood and Kaka Dembele all scored in the National South fixture. The Darts have only won once on this day at home back in 1933 when they beat Aldershot Reserves 1-0 in the Southern League Eastern Section. Since then, Dartford have drawn one and lost three on their own patch with the last defeat coming in 2006 to Rothwell Town in the Southern League Division One East.

Ebbsfleet United v Dartford

February 7, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford start their defence of the Kent Senior Cup with the rearranged meeting against local rivals Ebbsfleet United on Tuesday night.

The Darts could complete a treble over their rivals having beaten the Fleet on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day in the National South. With both sides aiming for promotion to the National League there could be a few changes to each side in the first Kent Senior Cup North Kent derby for 15 years.

Alan Dowson inherited a side that has won the last two editions of the competition. A third consecutive county cup triumph will make Dartford the first side to win three in a row since Ebbsfleet United, in their former guise as Gravesend and Northfleet between 2000 and 2002. The Fleet last took home the regional silverware nine years ago. With 21 Kent Senior Cup titles between them, the Darts are hoping for a 14th this season.

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Highlights – Ebbsfleet United v Dartford (26/12/2022) – Dartford FC TV

In Dartford’s last visit to Stonebridge Road it took just 45 seconds for Luke Allen to score on Boxing Day. Former Fleet winger, Luke Coulson made it two on five minutes and six minutes later Maxwell Statham added a third. Dartford were pinching themselves when Alex Wall scored before the break, his eighth in all competitions and there was still time for the hosts to pull a goal back through Craig Tanner.

The return fixture at Princes Park on New Year’s day was even better and yet again Wall netted. After a spell of Ebbsfleet United pressure, Malachi Napa scored his first goal for the Darts. Charlie Sheringham was introduced against one of his former teams and grabbed his 60th career goal for the Darts and to cap off it all off Essam headed a fourth.

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Highlights – Dartford v Ebbsleet United (01/01/2023) – Dartford FC TV

In the Kent Senior Cup, the Darts have lost their last three against their rivals of which two of those were away, Fleet’s only home victories against Dartford in the competition. The last meeting came in 2008 when Phil Williams scored the only goal for the Darts in a 4-1 defeat. Dartford last beat Fleet in the county cup back in 1989 winning 2-0.

The winner of this second round tie will face Welling United in the quarter-final, who Dartford faced on Saturday at Park View Road. Dowson made three changes to the side that started the last league match in which the Darts lost 3-0 to Worthing. Charlie Sheringham led the line in place of the suspended Alex Wall and his fine display was rewarded with a goal. Jamar Loza and Jernade Meade were also given the nod ahead of Malachi Napa and Kristian Campbell.

Welling United had the better of the first half with former Dart, Ade Azeez hitting the post. Just before the break new signing George Alexander scored on debut capitalising on Dartford’s defensive uncertainty when trying to clear a corner. A better second half showing saw Sheringham equalise against is former club, helped by the creativity of Samir Carruthers. However, the hosts were back in front when Azeez smashed a shot in off the underside of the crossbar. Dowson’s side showed character and when Carruthers slid a ball through to Napa, the super sub curled a confident finish into the Welling United net. The 2-2 draw was a fair reflection of the game, but dropped points leaves Dartford eight points behind Ebbsfleet United having played an extra game.

If Dartford’s last county cup fixture is anything to go by then Dowson is likely to make many changes to the starting eleven. The Dartford boss altered the entire lineup for the London Senior Cup win over Metropolitan Police a week ago. Whilst Meade and Loza have now both made appearances since joining, Tommy Block is yet to start and if back from injury could make his debut. Sam Odaudu has been the only other absentee on the injury list, whilst Wall served his first of a three match ban on the weekend for his red card at Worthing.

Ebbsfleet United have regained control of the National South and are ever increasing favourites to return to the National League. It’s possible that Dennis Kutrieb could also make a number of changes after the Fleet’s 2-0 victory on the weekend over one of their closest title rivals. Dominic Poleon scored mid-way through the first half and a late goal from Franklin Domi sealed the deal. After the festive double defeat to the Darts which closed a run of four straight losses, the Fleet have now won six on the bounce returning to their early season form.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 69 / Ebbsfleet United wins: 56 / Draws: 32

Current Form (all competitions)

Dartford (WWLLWD)			Ebbsfleet United (WWWWWW)
Welling United	A	2-2	Havant & Waterlooville	H	2-0
Metropolitan Police (LSC)	H	2-0	Concord Rangers	H	4-1
Worthing	A	0-3	Dulwich Hamlet	A	3-1
Hemel Hempstead Town	H	1-3	Chelmsford City	H	2-0
Cheshunt	A	3-1	Dover Athletic	A	2-1
Ebbsfleet United	H	4-0	Weymouth	H	4-1

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 4 – 0 Ebbsfleet United (01/01/2023 – National South)
Ebbsfleet United 1 – 4 Dartford (26/12/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Ebbsfleet United (01/02/2022 – National South)
Ebbsfleet United 1 – 0 Dartford (02/01/2022 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 0 Ebbsfleet United (02/01/2021 – National South)
Ebbsfleet United 1 – 0 Dartford (01/01/2017 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford have won 8, drawn 4 and lost 6 against Ebbsfleet United in the Kent Senior Cup
Away from home in this competition the Darts have won 4, drawn 1 and lost 2 versus Fleet
Dartford last beat Ebbsfleet United three times in a single campaign back in 1978/79 a feat they have done on six previous occasions. In 1962/63, the Darts beat the Fleet four times.
The Darts have won their last eight Kent Senior Cup matches (includes penalties) matching the run from 1986 to 1989 and 1931 to 1933. Another win will set a club record.
Only four teams have previously won the Kent Senior Cup three times in a row (Northfleet United 1924-1928 (five titles), Dartford 1931-1933, Royal Artillery Depot Woolwich 1943-1945 and Gravesend and Northfleet 2000-2002).

On This Day

Dartford crashed out of the F.A Trophy third round on this day in 2015 after a replay with FC Halifax Town. A late Rory McAuley goal a fortnight earlier gave the Darts a second opportunity after coming back from two down, but they couldn’t take it at the Shay. FC Halifax Town raced into a two goal lead again before Andy Pugh halved the deficit. A third goal was added for the hosts to send Dartford out of the competition. The last victory on 7 February came in 2004 when the Darts won 2-0 at home to Newport Isle of Wight in the Southern League Division One East. That was the last of a six match winning streak on this day which included a 2-1 Kent Senior Cup quarter final triumph against Ashford Town in 2000. In 1989, the Darts defeated rivals Dover Athletic 2-0 in a F.A Trophy second round replay on the way to reaching the last four.

Welling United v Dartford

February 3, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford can maintain a perfect Kent derby record if they get back to winning ways in the National South at Welling United this weekend.

The Darts have won all five county clashes in league competition this season, but approach Saturday’s trip to Park View Road on the back off two disappointing defeats in the division. The Wings will want to end a seven match winless league run against Dartford and put the heavy loss in November behind them.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Welling United (01/11/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Three months ago, at Princes Park, Alan Dowson led his side to a resounding 5-1 win over Welling United. The Darts raced into a three goal half-time lead with Pierre Fonkeu, Davide Rodari and former Wing, Maxwell Statham putting the hosts in command. Rodari has since left Dartford for Worthing where he scored in his first match against his former club last weekend. Ade Azeez, who was donning the black and white shirt last season pulled a goal back for Welling United, but loanee Jack Smith and winger Luke Coulson wrapped up a fine display.

Dartford have won six of their last seven National South games against the Wings and racked up 15 goals in the last three meetings. The Darts visited Park View Road in September 2021 and won convincingly 6-0. Azeez played a part in Dartford’s victory scoring the second and last of the day after Noor Husin put the Darts a goal up. Danny Leonard stretched the lead before the interval, but the visitors didn’t stop there. Luke Allen netted a quickfire double and to round up the afternoon Azeez grabbed his second. The reverse fixture last term finished 4-2 to Dartford when Marcus Dinanga scored twice with Allen and Leonard finding the net against Welling United once more.

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Match Highlights – Welling United v Dartford (25/09/2021) – Dartford FC TV

Eleven changes were made to the starting lineup on Tuesday night as Dowson gave academy and squad players an opportunity in the London Senior Cup. The decision paid off with several players rested and the Darts progressing to the last eight, beating Metropolitan Police by two goals to nil. Academy players Jade Russell and Sam Archibald were handed debuts whilst Archie Panyi and Olly Box made their first ever appearances from off the substitute bench. Luke Allen returned from injury, Charlie Sheringham from illness, Jernade Meade made his first start since returning to the club and Jamar Loza was named in the starting eleven for the first time. Goals from Keiran Murtagh and an injury time second from Fonkeu sealed a 2-0 win and a passage to the quarter-final. Kristian Campbell and Alex Wall came on as substitutes, the only players involved in the 3-0 loss at Worthing last weekend. Sam Odaudu is still recovering from injury, whilst Tommy Block awaits his debut since joining from Hampton and Richmond Borough.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Metropolitan Police (31/01/2023) – Dartford FC TV

Wall was red carded in that defeat down in Sussex and will begin a three match suspension putting him out of the Kent derby. However, the damage had already been done with Worthing scoring twice early on, an own goal from Statham was followed up by Ollie Pearce’s strike. Rodari made it 3-0 in the second-half prior to Wall’s dismissal. The loss at Worthing was the second time in a row Dartford conceded three, after a 3-1 defeat at home to Hemel Hempstead Town. Dowson and his side will be determined to end the two-game losing streak in the league, especially now the Darts are six points behind league leaders Ebbsfleet United and with Havant and Waterlooville close behind in third.

As many as six players could be facing their former club on the weekend. Dartford goalkeeper Dan Wilks, defenders Statham and Campbell and striker Sheringham all previously played for the Wings. In the other camp, Azeez scored 18 times for the Darts last season in 45 games before joining Welling United in the summer. Former loanee Rob Howard made seven appearances during the 2019/2020 campaign. Azeez has netted 13 times in all competitions this term at almost a goal every other game, whilst Howard has played ten games for the Wings starting in their last outing.

Manager, Warren Feeney made five changes last weekend for the 1-0 win at Chelmsford City, including handing Kyrell Lisbie and Kodi Lyons-Foster their debut. Stefan Payne returned from suspension and Howard was recalled to the lineup. A penalty scored by Taylor Maloney was the decisive moment as the Wings recorded three points for the first time since their festive double over Tonbridge Angels. Leading up to the excellent win at the Melbourne Stadium, Welling United lost 4-2 in their last home game against Dulwich Hamlet and 3-2 at Worthing. Feeney’s side are sitting in mid-table ten points adrift from the playoffs and eleven clear of the relegation zone.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 25 / Welling United wins: 10 / Draws: 11

Current League Form

Dartford (WWWWLL)			Welling United (LWWLLW)
Worthing	A	0-3	Chelmsford City	A	1-0
Hemel Hempstead Town	H	1-3	Dulwich Hamlet	H	2-4
Cheshunt	A	3-1	Worthing	A	2-3
Ebbsfleet United	H	4-0	Tonbridge Angels	H	2-1
Ebbsfleet United	A	4-1	Tonbridge Angels	A	1-0
Havant & Waterlooville	A	3-1	Farnborough	H	1-2

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 5 – 1 Welling United (01/11/2022 – National South)
Welling United 2 – 2 Dartford (26/04/2022 – Kent Senior Cup)*
Dartford 4 – 2 Welling United (05/02/2022 – National South)
Welling United 0 – 6 Dartford (25/09/2021 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 2 Welling United (06/02/2021 – National South)
Dartford 4 – 0 Welling United (01/01/2020 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford have won on their last two trips to Park View Road with an aggregate score of 9-0. The Darts had only scored 12 in their previous nine visits there.
In all competitions Dartford have lost just once in the last 18 meetings with Welling United in normal time (W11, D6)
In three of the last four seasons in which the two sides played twice in the league, Dartford have scored seven or more goals against Welling United

On This Day

First-half strikes from Ryan Hayes and Tom Murphy and Andy Pugh’s goal on the hour helped Dartford to a 3-1 home win against Whitehawk on this day. The Darts lost their last away game on 4 February in a Kent derby with Tonbridge Angels, the final score was 1-0 in the Southern League Division One East back in 2003. The last away day victory on this day was back in 1995 when Dartford beat Canterbury City 2-0 in the Kent League. The biggest win on 4 February came in a London Combination Second Division fixture in 1933 when the Darts beat Guildford City 7-1.

Month: February 2023

Dartford v Haringey Borough

Dartford v Oxford City

Dartford v Slough Town

Braintree Town v Dartford

Dartford v Chippenham Town

Ebbsfleet United v Dartford

Welling United v Dartford

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