Dartford FC Previews

Month: March 2024

Dartford v Eastbourne Borough

March 31, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Dartford’s battle for survival continues this Easter Monday when they have home advantage in a relegation six pointer against Eastbourne Borough.

Dartford have just five games remaining to save their season and remain in the National South. The Darts have spent nine consecutive years in the second tier of the non-league and will not fancy returning to the Isthmian Premier League, for the first time since 2010. Eastbourne Borough’s 13-year stay is also under threat and were last playing step three football in 2003/2004.

Prior the beginning of the campaign few would have expected to see Dartford and Eastbourne Borough in their current predicament. The Darts were runners up last season and the Sports had just turned full-time and touted to challenge at the other end of the table. By January, managers Alan Dowson exited Princes Park and Mark Beard departed Priory Lane. Now it’s down to Adrian Pennock to steer the Darts and Adam Murray to guide the Sports to safety.

It wasn’t such a good Friday for either side as both the Darts and the Sports fell to heavy defeats. Pennock made six changes to the team that drew 0-0 versus Truro City. Jordan Greenidge returned from suspension replacing Oliver Bray up front. Brandon Barzey was back from international duty and lined up on the wing instead of Fumnaya Shomotun. Oliver Box recovered from an ankle injury, Maxwell Statham and Joash Nembhard also started as well as Taylor Maloney. Luke Allen and Jack Smith were named on the substitutes bench, but Tommy Block and Harrison Sodje were rested.

The Darts found themselves a goal down against Chelmsford City with half an hour played when Clarets top scorer, Charlie Ruff netted from a couple of yards out. Approaching the interval the hosts doubled their advantage through former Dartford loanee George Alexander. Pennock made a half-time change bringing on Smith for Luke Coulson and within two minutes of the restart Barzey pulled a goal back. However, the Essex club pulled clear in the final ten minutes. First Alexander scored his fourth goal against the Darts for a third different club, then Ruff added his second of the afternoon.

Eastbourne Borough also faced a playoff chasing side on Good Friday. Welcoming Maidstone United to Priory Lane, the Sports conceded a penalty after just five minutes. Sam Corne dispatched the spot kick to put the visitors ahead. It got worse for the Sussex club after Sam Beard was sent off for two cautions just minutes apart. Disadvantaged, the hosts were undeterred and Pierce Bird equalised ten minutes before half-time. The goalscorer’s afternoon was cut short early in the second-half when he was dismissed, leaving the Sports down to nine. Maidstone United pressed home their advantage by regaining the lead courtesy of Matt Rush. In the final five minutes Lemar Reynolds added three more to complete a quick fire hat-trick.

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Dartford will be desperate to repeat the win they achieved in this fixture last season. Under the Princes Park floodlights the Darts came from behind to claim maximum points. Eastbourne Borough took the lead through Leone Gravata, but the hosts were soon level when Charlie Sheringham linked up with Samir Carruthers, who scored with half an hour played. Carruthers was involved again in the winner by providing the pass to Kristian Campbell who set up Luke Allen in a 2-1 victory.

That was the second successive home win over the Sussex side as the Darts also won 3-1 in August 2021 at Princes Park. Jake Robinson opened his account with a brace, the first after seven minutes was a predatory finish, his second was from the penalty spot. The Sports hit back immediately after the break when Greg Luer made the most of a lack of concentration to cut Dartford’s lead in half. Ade Azeez was brought on and his well-placed header restored the two goal cushion.

In between those home wins the Darts also trounced the Sports 7-2 in Sussex on the final day of the 2021/2022 campaign. Dan Roberts opened the scored in the fourth minute, whilst Marcus Dinanga and Kalvin Kalala both netted a brace. Kory Roberts and Jordan Greenidge also found the back of the Eastbourne Borough net on a fantastic afternoon for the Darts. However, the Sports have taken four points from the last six available in this fixture all at Priory Lane.

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The reverse fixture this season ended with honours even. An early second-half strike from Fletcher Holman gave Eastbourne Borough an advantage which was cancelled out by Brandon Barzey’s equaliser. Moussa Diarra was lining up at the back for the Darts that day, the defender is now at Eastbourne Borough. The 34-year-old made 23 appearances in a Dartford shirt scoring one goal. Another former player was on the bench for the Sports back in October, Ben Dudzinski played 13 games in goal for the Darts last season.

Current League Standings

Team Played Pts GD
Welling United 41 47 -16
Truro City 36 45 -6
Hemel Hempstead 41 45 -15
Torquay United 40 44 -8
DARTFORD 41 40 -16
Taunton Town 37 40 -19
Eastbourne Borough 40 38 -28
Havant & Waterlooville 41 33 -34
Dover Athletic 41 23 -34

Current League Form

Dartford (LLLDDL) Eastbourne Borough (LLWDWD)
Chelmsford City A 1-4 Maidstone United H 1-5
Truro City A 0-0 Slough Town A 1-1
Hemel Hempstead H 1-1 Taunton Town H 2-0
Maidstone United H 0-2 Dover Athletic H 1-1
Braintree Town A 0-2 Hemel Hempstead H 1-0
Torquay United A 1-4 Hampton & Richmond A 0-1

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 15 / Eastbourne Borough wins: 9 / Draws: 5

Last Six Meetings

Eastbourne Borough1 – 1 Dartford (24/10/2023 – National South)
Eastbourne Borough 2 – 1 Dartford (07/04/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Eastbourne Borough (27/09/2022 – National South)
Eastbourne Borough 2 – 7 Dartford (07/05/2022 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 1 Eastbourne Borough (30/08/2021 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Eastbourne Borough (09/02/2021 – National South)

Statistics

  • At home, Dartford have lost just once in the league in their last nine games against the Sports (W7, D1)
  • At Princes Park, the Darts have won eight out of 11 against Eastbourne Borough in all competitions (D1, L2)
  • The Darts have gone eight games at home without a clean sheet against the Sussex club

On This Day

Alex Wall scored a hat-trick a year ago as the Darts strolled to a 4-0 home victory against Dulwich Hamlet. Harvey Bradbury added another with five minutes to go to make it three wins in their last five on this day. Six years earlier Dartford drew 2-2 with Hemel Hempstead Town in Hertfordshire, Danny Harris and Luke Wanadio scoring for the visitors. In 2013 the Darts put in a brilliant performance at Princes Park beating Woking 4-1 in the National League. Goals from Nathan Collier, a brace from Lee Noble and one for Charlie Sheringham secured victory. Pre homecoming Dartford also recorded a 2-0 victory at Ilford in the Southern League Division One East in 2006. The only team to get the better of Dartford in the last five outings on this day are now in the Premier League. Luton Town won 2-1 at Princes Park with two late goals. Mikkel Suarez put the hosts in front, but Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu and Andre Gray netted for the Hatters.

Chelmsford City v Dartford

March 28, 2024 / / 0 Comments


Dartford bid to stay above the relegation zone this Easter facing a difficult trip to Chelmsford City on Good Friday.

The Darts climbed out of the bottom four on Tuesday night by the slimmest of margins and now they are seeking a first league win at the Melbourne Community Stadium in just over eight years. Adrian Pennock is still hoping to claim his maiden victory as Dartford boss at the sixth attempt. Chelmsford City are in second place and can still catch league leaders Yeovil Town. The Clarets are seven points adrift from the front runners with just five games to play.

Since Pennock arrived, he has managed to stop a losing streak of four matches with consecutive draws. Both of those points have helped the Darts move above the dotted line on goal difference and have been against teams also fighting for survival. On Saturday, Paul Rooney rescued a point for Dartford in a 1-1 draw with Hemel Hempstead Town.

Three days later the Darts travelled to Gloucester to take on Truro City, two points above them in the table. Jack Smith and Luke Allen were introduced to the side with Alex Wall and Taylor Maloney dropping to the bench. Oliver Box was still missing from the squad with an ankle injury, Sam Odaudu has been a long-term absence and Jordan Greenidge served the last of his two-game suspension. Both defences held firm in the 0-0 draw, which saw Dartford claim their first clean sheet since Boxing Day.

Dartford have suffered in this fixture recently from late goals, comebacks and former players making an impact. The last visit to the Melbourne Community Stadium wasn’t the prettiest encounter, but the hosts didn’t mind when Louis Dunne scored a minute from time with an inswinging cross which skimmed the head of Tom Bonner and into the far corner. Victory for the hosts extended their unbeaten home run against the Darts to six stretching back to 2016, when a Tony Burman side progressed in a F.A Cup tie.

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Just over a year ago the Clarets did another number on the Darts at Princes Park. Neat interplay between Samir Carruthers and Jack Smith set up Luke Coulson to give the hosts a half-time lead. In the second-half Coulson hit the post and Dartford looked good with seven minutes to go, until former player Ody Alfa scored with an unstoppable strike. There was time for another ex-Dart to find the back of the net in injury time, Giovanni McGregor curled home the winner.

That summer Carruthers switched allegiances and earlier this season it was the midfielder’s turn to score against the Darts. Once again, the Darts went in front on home soil when this time Maxwell Statham opened the scoring. With the break approaching Joash Nembhard conceded a penalty and up stepped Carruthers to make it all square. Ten minutes into the second-half Charlie Ruff put the visitors ahead to give Chelmsford City a third consecutive win over the Darts.

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Robbie Simpson’s side have made huge strides this season and are aiming for promotion to the National League for the first time. The Clarets have played a game more than league leaders Yeovil Town and need to make up a seven-point deficit over the next five matches. The odds are against the Essex club to snatch the title, but they are comfortably in second for now, eight points clear of county rivals Braintree Town.

On the weekend Chelmsford City showed plenty of character and did a favour for the Darts. Clarets top scorer Charlie Ruff scored to injury time goals to see his side come from 2-1 down at Taunton Town to win 3-2. Former Dart, Jazzi Barnum-Bobb captained the team, the defender played 18 times for Dartford in the 2020/2021 campaign. George Alexander came off the bench, the striker was on loan at Princes Park this term scoring twice in ten matches. Victory was their second in consecutive weekends against a Somerset side as the Clarets also beat Bath City 3-1 at home, a game that featured Ody Alfa. Since the Christmas period Chelmsford City have gone from seventh to second and have tasted defeat just three times.

Current League Form

Dartford (LLLLDD) Chelmsford City (WWWLWW)
Truro City A 0-0 Taunton Town A 3-2
Hemel Hempstead H 1-1 Bath City H 3-1
Maidstone United H 0-2 Maidstone United A 0-2
Braintree Town A 0-2 Truro City A 4-1
Torquay United A 1-4 Worthing H 1-0
Aveley H 1-2 Aveley A 2-0

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 41 / Chelmsford City wins: 58 / Draws: 23

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 1 – 2 Chelmsford City (07/11/2023 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 2 Chelmsford City (25/03/2023 – National South)
Chelmsford City 1 – 0 Dartford (03/12/2022 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Chelmsford City (15/03/2022 – National South)
Chelmsford City 0 – 0 Dartford (25/10/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Chelmsford City (06/10/2020 – National South)

Statistics

  • Chelmsford City were one of three teams to complete a double over the Darts last season.
  • The Darts are winless in six league trips to Chelmsford City last winning there in December 2015 (D2, L4). That victory is the only away win in the league against the Clarets in 12 attempts (D3, L8)
  • In all competitions Dartford have won just twice in their last 14 visits to the Melbourne Community Stadium (D4, L8)

On This Day

Dartford’s last outing on this day is their only win in the last six. Struggling at the wrong end of the National League table, the Darts claimed a 2-1 win over Macclesfield Town to provide hope of staying up. The Silkmen led through Paul Turnbull’s volley. However, the hosts fought back when Danny Harris scored before half-time and Max Cornhill claimed the winner with nine minutes remaining. A future Dartford legend showed his capabilities 16 years ago when Brentwood Town visited Princes Park. Lee Noble was in the side that beat the Darts 1-0 on this day in 2008. The midfielder went on to sign for Dartford in May 2008 and spent 12 years as a Dart making over 450 appearances.

Truro City v Dartford

March 26, 2024 / / 0 Comments

A neutral venue will host Dartford’s long trip west to face Truro City in a relegation six pointer on Tuesday night.

For the Darts, the journey to Gloucester City’s Meadow Park shortens their travelling time compared to the fixture that was postponed back in January, when the match was due to be played in Plymouth. Truro City, who face 12 games in 24 days will be making the 195 mile jaunt just to play at ‘home’.

Victory in Gloucestershire will ensure the Darts climb out of the relegation zone and finish the evening above the White Tigers. Dartford have won just one in their last eight National South games. Truro City have secured two victories in their last 11 outings, both those triumphs came in the last four matches. Although last time out they were beaten by Tonbridge Angels despite going in front.

New Dartford boss, Adrian Pennock picked up his first point at the helm on the weekend to halt a run of four straight league defeats for the club. Having fallen behind some could see the draw as a precious point gained. However with relegation rivals slipping up around the Darts, it was also an opportunity missed against a struggling Hemel Hempstead Town side.

Pennock was pleased with the character shown by his players at the end of a difficult week for the club on and off the field. The passing of co-chairman Dave Skinner was respected prior kick off with a minute applause.

On the field the Darts were without Brandon Barzey who is on international duty for Montserrat. Jordan Greenidge is suspended, for the red card picked up in the 2-0 loss versus Braintree Town and will be unavailable on Tuesday night. Goalkeeper, Billy Terrell was also sent off against Maidstone United, so his ban forced Pennock into signing Rhys Byrne on loan from Leyton Orient. Oliver Box was in contention to feature against Hemel Hempstead Town on Saturday, but an ankle injury prevented the youngster making his 15th appearance for the team. Sam Odaudu is recovering from a long term injury.

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Byrne became the sixth keeper used by Dartford this term in all competitions. The loanee was given his debut alongside Harrison Sodje, also from Leyton Orient and Oliver Bray, from Aldershot Town. Bray also had a spell with Truro City earlier this season, scoring once in seven appearances for the White Tigers. The trio were part of four changes to the last starting eleven in the league. Alex Wall was the other alteration to the side replacing the suspended Greenidge.

Dartford had enough chances to beat Hemel Hempstead Town, who were led by former manager Alan Dowson. The opening ten minutes saw Fumnaya Shomotun weave through the Tudors defence only for former Dartford goalkeeper Craig King to save. The visitors went in front with their first major effort, Michael Folivi was played through on goal and the striker calmly finished. Early in the second half the Darts were wasteful in front of goal until man of the match Paul Rooney equalised to earn the hosts a point. Although Dartford gained a small amount of ground on Taunton Town, Truro City and Welling United they remain in the bottom four.

Meadow Park will be the third different venue Dartford have visited to play Truro City. In those five previous matches, the Darts have won just one and that was 5-0 in October 2016 at Treyew Road. Keaton Wood, Andy Pugh and Duane Ofori-Acheampong all scored in the first half. Ofori-Acheampong netted again in the second forty-five as did Alex Brown.

The last visit was six years ago to the day played at Torquay United’s ground, Plainmoor. After three unanswered goals Dartford scored a last-minute consolation. Tyler Harvey opened the scoring before hitting the woodwork. The striker then scored on the stroke of half-time and moments later Nick Grimes added a third. Kudus Oyenuga headed in a 90th minute goal for the visitors as it ended 3-1.

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Truro City manager Paul Wotton is ‘taking each game as it comes’ in assessing which of his players are available and fit. The busy fixture schedule caused by waterlogged pitches at Plymouth Parkway’s Bolitho Park and Taunton Town’s Wordsworth Drive have left the White Tigers needing to play three games a week and they still need to rearrange the abandoned fixture versus Eastbourne Borough.

On Saturday, the Cornwall side looked good for maximum points in Kent after Josh Hinds scored his first goal for the club just past the hour mark. However, Tonbridge Angels left it very late to steal all three points when Jordan Higgs levelled six minutes from time and Jamie Fielding netted the winner in the 93rd minute.

A week earlier Truro City recorded their first away win since January. Andrew Neal and Adam Porter were on target in a 2-1 win at St Albans City. Their next fixture, last Tuesday against Eastbourne Borough, was abandoned after a serious injury to Sports defender Alex Finney.

Potentially the reverse fixture could be decisive in who stays in the National South. Dartford play Truro City again on the final day of the season at Princes Park.

Current League Form

Dartford (DLLLLD) Truro City (LLWLWL)
Hemel Hempstead H 1-1 Tonbridge Angels A 1-2
Maidstone United H 0-2 St Albans City A 2-1
Braintree Town A 0-2 Chelmsford City A 1-4
Torquay United A 1-4 Taunton Town H 2-0
Aveley H 1-2 Welling United A 2-3
Taunton Town H 1-1 Bath City A 1-2

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Truro City wins: 5 / Draws: 2

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 1 – 1 Truro City (30/03/2019 – National South)
Truro City 3 – 1 Dartford (27/10/2018 – National South)
Dartford 4 – 1 Truro City (24/02/2018 – National South)
Truro City 3 – 1 Dartford (11/11/2017 – National South)
Dartford 5 – 3 Truro City (18/03/2017 – National South)
Truro City 0 – 5 Dartford (08/10/2016 – National South)

Statistics

  • The last seven meetings between the two sides have averaged 4.32 goals per game. Dartford have scored 17 to Truro City’s 14 (W3, D1, L3)
  • Dartford’s only win away at Truro City was 5-0 in October 2016, since then they have lost two in a row
  • The Darts are on their longest streak without a win in the league this season. It’s the second time this campaign in which Dartford have failed to record a victory in seven National South games.

On This Day

Dartford took a massive step towards winning the Kent Senior Cup on this day in 1973. The first leg of the final against Folkestone Town finished 6-2 to the Darts. Nine days later a 4-2 second leg win handed the county cup to Dartford in style. The Darts last outing on this day was a couple of years ago when Marcus Dinanga scored the only goal of the game at Hampton and Richmond Borough. Dartford hosted Lewes in 2011 and a goal from Danny Harris and a brace for Charlie Sheringham secured a 3-0 victory.

Dartford v Hemel Hempstead Town

March 22, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Dartford’s relegation battle continues on Non League Day when they host a Hemel Hempstead Town side managed by former boss Alan Dowson.

Adrian Pennock is searching for his first points as Darts manager in his fourth league game in charge. After exiting Princes Park, Dowson returns to the ground where he spent just over a year and a half in charge. The 53-year-old is also yet to get off the mark in his three games as Tudors boss.

A six pointer at the bottom end of the table could see Dartford move within three points of their opponents and drag them into the mix. At least one manager will break their duck and with both sides in poor form any points picked up will be crucial in their bid to remain in the National South.

When the two sides met in October they ended the day in 12th and 13th respectively, closer to the playoffs in terms of points. Now the Darts have won just once in 14 league games with the last home victory coming in November under Dowson, who departed in January. Hemel Hempstead Town have lost their last six and have one point to show in their last nine outings, resulting in Bradley Quinton leaving and being replaced by Dartford’s ex manager at the start of this month.

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Dartford approach Saturday’s game after a double header against Kent rivals Maidstone United. In the National South last weekend the Darts put in plenty of effort and after a promising first half they still went in at half-time a goal down once Liam Sole put the Stones in front. Goalkeeper, Billy Terrell was sent off ten minutes into the second-half and Maidstone United’s Matt Rush added a late second.

Brandon Barzey put in a good performance on the Dartford wing, but he will miss this weekend’s game after being called up to the Montserrat international squad for a World Cup qualifier. The winger spent some of this campaign on loan at Hemel Hempstead Town. His not the only current Dart who has turned out for the Hertfordshire club. Luke Allen, Joash Nembhard, Alex Wall and Charlie Sheringham also had spells at Vauxhall Road.

This week Pennock made a triple signing by bringing in players on loan. After Terrell’s red card and Tom Clifford returning to his parent club, the Dartford boss has brought in goalkeeper Rhys Byrne and defender Harrison Sodje from Leyton Orient. Ibby Akanbi and Elliott Romain have also finished their spells with the Darts leading to Oliver Bray arriving at Princes Park until the end of the season. The 20-year-old striker from Aldershot Town was at Willand Rovers in the Southern League Division One South before joining the Shots and spent time on loan at Truro City this season.

Pennock named eight homegrown players in the squad to face Maidstone United in Tuesday night’s Kent Senior Cup semi-final. Tom Wray started in goal, George Whitefield and Oliver Box were also selected, whilst the bench consisted of five youngsters from the academy. Ibby Akanbi returned after illness and Jordan Greenidge was rested despite his upcoming suspension.

Box has impressed since breaking into the senior side, scoring five goals in five starts and six substitute appearances. Featuring for the first time under Pennock, the academy graduate set up Alex Wall for only his fifth goal of the season to give the Darts a one goal advantage at the break. Senior debuts were also handed to Finley Sillince and Jeremiah Pinder in the second-half who came on as substitutes. Maidstone United levelled with 12 minutes remaining when they were awarded a penalty which Sam Corne dispatched. A 1-1 draw after normal time meant the tie was decided from the spot, the Stones won 4-3 on penalties.

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Five months ago, a frustrating afternoon saw Dowson sent off from the away dugout at Vauxhall Road. Dartford let a one goal lead slip to come home with nothing to show in a 2-1 defeat against Hemel Hempstead Town. Winger, Luke Coulson scored his first goal since the opening day from the penalty spot. Yet his first-half strike was cancelled out moments later when Reece Grant finished a one-on-one chance. The Tudors were awarded a penalty of their own in the second-half, which Joe Iaciofano scored.

Last season the away side won both games with Dartford taking the honours in Hertfordshire. Former Tudor, Samir Carruthers delicately curled the opener into the top corner from just inside the box. The 29-year-old added another scoring directly from a free-kick. The reverse fixture finished 3-1 to Hemel Hempstead Town at Princes Park. Jack Westbrook gave the away team the lead before Connor Essam’s equaliser. Approaching the interval, Kyle Ajayi scored a stunner and late in the match Jeremie Mukendi grabbed a third.

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Former Dart, Pierre Fonkeu scored in Hemel Hempstead Town’s last outing. The forward made 50 appearances, 20 as a substitute scoring 11 goals for Dartford last term. The 26-year-old equalised five minutes before the break, but Hampton and Richmond Borough scored again to claim a 2-1 win. Josh Hill was also in the starting eleven for the Tudors, the defender played 66 times for the Darts scoring seven. Craig King also had a spell at Princes Park featuring in 18 games. The shot stopper hasn’t played for the Tudors since late February. Dowson has made a few signings since arriving bringing in goalkeeper Jonathan McAuley and Junior Gyamfi on loan from Watford and Jamie Sendles-White from Yeovil Town.

Prior defeat at home to Hampton and Richmond Borough, the Tudors went three without scoring, away at Bath City and Eastbourne Borough as well as at home versus Havant and Waterlooville. With two of their last four defeats coming against teams in the drop zone, Hemel Hempstead Town are edging closer to the bottom four.

Current League Form

Dartford (LDLLLL) Hemel Hempstead Town (LLLLLL)
Maidstone United H 0-2 Hampton & Richmond H 1-2
Braintree Town A 1-2 Bath City A 0-2
Torquay United A 1-4 Eastbourne Borough A 0-1
Aveley H 1-2 Havant & Waterlooville H 0-2
Taunton Town H 1-1 Chelmsford City H 1-4
Slough Town A 2-3 Weston-super-Mare H 1-2

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 8 / Hemel Hempstead Town wins: 3 / Draws: 5

Last Six Meetings

Hemel Hempstead Town 2 – 1 Dartford (28/10/2023 – National South
Dartford 1 – 3 Hemel Hempstead Town (14/01/2023 – National South)
Hemel Hempstead Town 0 – 2 Dartford (29/08/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Hemel Hempstead Town (09/04/2022 – National South)
Hemel Hempstead Town 2 – 3 Dartford (20/11/2021 – National South)
Hemel Hempstead Town 1 – 3 Dartford (10/11/2020 – National South)

Statistics

  • Dartford are winless in their last four at home against Hemel Hempstead Town (D3, L1)
  • The Darts went 12 games unbeaten against the Tudors (W7, D5) before losing the last two meetings
  • Dartford are without a home win in six (D8, L8), their worst run since 2014/2015 (D3, L3)

On This Day

Dartford have lost just one of their last 14 games on 23 March and that was 14 years ago at home to Margate in the Isthmian Premier League. The most recent outing on this day saw Tyrell Miller-Rodney lining up against the Darts for Hampton and Richmond Borough. Dartford equalised twice in a 2-2 draw, Sheringham scored a penalty and Darren McQueen rescued a point in the last minute. In 2013 a Ryan Hayes masterclass helped the Darts to a rare win over Gateshead in the National League. The winger scored a brace and Sheringham added a third in a 3-0 victory. Dartford have won 11 of their last 14 matches on 23 March.

Dartford v Maidstone United

March 19, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Dartford are one game away from the Kent Senior Cup final when they host Maidstone United for a second time in three days.

The two most decorated sides in the competition go head to head for the seventeenth time in the county cup. Dartford are looking to close the gap in terms of lifting the cup having done so on thirteen occasions compared to Maidstone United’s eighteen.

Since 2011, the Darts have won the Kent Senior Cup four times and that was after a 23 year wait. The Stones have had a similar story and have been triumphant twice since 2018 having not featured in a final for 28 years.

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Ady Pennock will give a chance for those who didn’t feature in the weekend loss against Maidstone United as he concentrates on keeping the Darts in the National South. The Stones are in a similar position but at the other end of the table. They are pushing for a playoff place and a return to the National League.

Although the Darts remain focused on the league, a cup final will bring some cheer during a difficult campaign. Currently in the relegation zone Dartford will need to overcome a Maidstone United side who have already beaten them three times this season, a fourth win in a single campaign in this fixture will set a new record.

Just three days ago the Stones claimed Kent derby honours in a 2-0 National South win at Princes Park. Dartford made four changes to the side that also lost 2-0 at Braintree Town a week ago. Pennock brought back Paul Rooney, Jordan Wynter, Taylor Maloney and Brandon Barzey to replace Tyrell Miller-Rodney, Manny Adebowale, Jack Smith and Ibby Akanbi, who was unavailable due to illness.

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Open “DARTFORD VS SEVENOAKS TOWN | KENT SENIOR CUP | 30/01/2024” directly
Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Once again the Darts put in plenty of effort and after a promising first half they still went in at half-time a goal down. Luke Coulson and Jordan Greenidge tested the Stones goalkeeper and Barzey also came close. Billy Terrell was called into action saving Muhammadu Faal’s effort, but as the interval approached the Stones led through Liam Sole’s injury time goal. Terrell’s afternoon worsened when ten minutes into the second-half he was red carded, Dartford’s seventh sending off this season and second in the last two outings. Maidstone United went on to control the match for last half an hour and Matt Rush secured the away win.

The reverse fixture in the National South was Alan Dowson’s final game in charge of the Darts. Coulson gave Dartford the lead from the penalty spot. However, the Kent derby turned in the space of five second-half minutes. Harry Kyprianou and Rush scored for the Stones to hand the hosts the three points. The two sides also met in the F.A Trophy second round back in November and Levi Amantchi’s last minute winner sent the Stones into the next round.

Dartford won the last Kent Senior Cup tie against their Kent rivals back in 2020. Like this season, the pair had already met three times two months earlier with a draw in the league and a week later a stalemate in the F.A Trophy. The Stones went on to win the replay, but the Darts avenged defeat in the county cup with a 1-0 victory in January. Ky Marsh-Brown scored the decisive goal to take a Steve King side to the last eight. Dartford ended up going all the way winning the delayed final 6-1 against Whitstable Town.

A year earlier midfielder Ben Greenhalgh ended up in goal as the Darts almost held out for a quarter-final win. Maidstone United were holders at the time and fell behind when Charlie Sheringham scored a penalty. The Stones won a spot kick shortly afterwards, which Bailey Vose saved. However, his evening was cut short when he was sent off early in the second half. Greenhalgh almost kept a clean sheet until former Dart, Elliott Romain scored a late equaliser. After an incredible 15 successful penalties, Dan Johnson had his effort from 12 yards saved and Maidstone United progressed with a 8-7 shoot-out win.

Despite such success in this competition by both clubs they have only met in the semi-final once. In 1989, a 0-0 draw sent the tie into a replay and the two couldn’t be separated after a 1-1 draw at Watling Street. Once again it was Maidstone United who went through on penalties.

Story so far

Round Two
Dartford 5 – 1 Bromley
All level at the interval, the Darts ran riot in the second-half. Sheringham scored from the spot, but a poor defensive error gifted Bromley an equaliser. Luke Allen put the hosts ahead soon after the break. A third goal involvement from Sheringham arrived when he finished Alex Wall’s cross and Barzey wrapped things up with a brace.

Maidstone United 2 – 0 Gillingham
The Stones took on a young Gills side that featured Matty MacArthur, who was on loan at the Darts earlier in the season. Sole was brought down to earn a penalty in the first-half, which Devonte Aransibia dispatched. Five minutes before the break Sol Wanjau-Smith-Smith doubled the lead.

Quarter-Final
Dartford 3 – 2 Sevenoaks Town
The Darts ended the evening with a win and a new player. Whilst Olly Box ended with a first start for the club and his first goal. Box scored the opener and Matthew Attenborough-Warren equalised in the first-half. Manny Adebowale put Dartford back in front in the second-half and Coulson’s penalty extended the lead. Attenborough-Warren scored a late consolation, but it was Fumnaya Shomotun who impressed and the winger signed for the Darts.

Maidstone United 0 – 0 Punjab United
Up against a Southern Counties East side, the Stones, like the Darts made hard work of reaching the last four. No goals in normal time sent the tie to spot kicks. Harley Earle saved two to avoid an upset and send Maidstone United through 4-3 on penalties.

Current Form

Dartford (LDLLLL) Maidstone United  (LWDLWW)
Maidstone United H 0-2 Dartford A 2-0
Braintree Town A 1-2 Chelmsford City H 2-0
Torquay United A 1-4 St Albans City H 1-2
Aveley H 1-2 Bath City H 2-2
Taunton Town H 1-1 Dover Athletic A 1-0
Slough Town A 2-3 Coventry City (FAC) A 0-5

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 50 / Draws: 19

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 0 – 2 Maidstone United (16/03/2024 – National South)
Maidstone United 2 – 1 Dartford (09/01/2024 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/11/2023 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/04/2022 – National South)
Maidstone United 4 – 0 Dartford (11/12/2021 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 3 Dartford (02/10/2021 – F.A Cup)

Statistics

  • Dartford have lost just once in the last nine Kent Senior Cup ties against Maidstone United in normal time (W5, D3)
  • The Stones have knocked the Darts out of the competition in their last three visits to Watling Street/Princes Park (1981, 1989 and 2019)
  • Dartford have had a different manager for each Kent Senior Cup tie this season. Alan Dowson was in charge against Bromley, Tony Burman was in the dugout versus Sevenoaks Town, now Ady Pennock is at the helm.

On This Day

Dartford reached the Kent Senior Cup final on this day in 1955. The Darts beat Dover Athletic 2-1 in front of 3668 fans. In 1990 they beat Welling United 2-1 in a quarter final replay. You have to go back six games to 1994 for Dartford’s last win on this day. In the Kent League the Darts beat Tunbridge Wells 1-0. The last two fixtures on 19 March have been against Havant and Waterlooville. In 2022, Kory Roberts scored in a 1-1 draw at Princes Park. Six years earlier the Darts lost 2-0 at Westleigh Park.

Dartford v Maidstone United

March 15, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Dartford slipped into the relegation zone this week and will be desperate to pick up points against Kent rivals Maidstone United.

The Darts are searching for a first home win in the league since November and will be up against a Stones side looking to move into a playoff place. Ady Pennock has lost both games since taking charge at Princes Park and has a big challenge on his hands to guide Dartford to safety. Maidstone United have enjoyed a tremendous F.A Cup run to the fifth round this season and are now concentrating on finishing in the top seven. Three days later the Darts will be hosting the Stones again in the Kent Senior Cup semi-final.

Pennock made his second signing just ahead of Tuesday night’s fixture at Braintree Town. Ronny Nelson was part of Torquay United’s squad last weekend and was an unused substitute against the Darts. Now the central defender will be wearing a Dartford shirt after signing for a month from League Two side Colchester United. The 20-year-old joined the Essex club from Leicester City’s academy.

Dartford’s boss made one change to the side that tasted defeat in Devon. Nelson was put straight into the lineup to replace Joash Nembhard, who was on the bench. Midfielder, Jack Smith made his 50th appearance for the club. Jordan Wynter served the last of his two-match suspension and could face his former side this weekend. Sam Odaudu is still recovering from injury and Elliott Romain’s loan spell has come to an end.

Dartford slipped into the bottom four with a 2-0 defeat in Essex, an eighth loss in their last ten league games. Early bouts of pressure from Braintree Town and a series of corners were too much to handle for the Darts, the hosts finally took advantage through Shaq Coulthirst twenty minutes in. In the second-half Dartford stayed in the game, but a late red card to Jordan Greenidge dashed hopes for an equaliser. That hope was extinguished in stoppage time when Tom Blackwell clinched a second for Braintree Town.

Since Dartford’s last home victory in the National South, at Princes Park they have drawn three and lost four and are currently on a three-game losing streak in the league on their own patch. Four points from the last 33 available home and away has seen the Darts slide into a relegation battle. The situation was worsened on Tuesday night with Taunton Town winning against Torquay United to put Pennock’s side beneath the relegation line.

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Open “MAIDSTONE UNITED VS DARTFORD | NATIONAL LEAGUE SOUTH | 09/01/2024” directly
Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Next up is the tricky prospect of Maidstone United who Dartford lost to in January at the Gallagher Stadium. Goalkeeper, Billy Terrell made his debut between the sticks in Alan Dowson’s final game as boss, but the loanee from AFC Bournemouth was unable to stop the Darts falling to defeat despite taking the lead. Luke Coulson gave Dartford the lead from the penalty spot. However, the Kent derby turned in the space of five second-half minutes. Harry Kyprianou and Matt Rush scored for the Stones to hand the hosts the three points. Terrell is still waiting for his first clean sheet after making ten appearances so far.

Saturday’s clash will be the third time the Darts have taken on their Kent rivals this season. The pair were drawn together in the F.A Trophy second round back in November Dartford fell to a last gasp goal to Kent rivals Maidstone United in the second round. Another goalkeeper made his debut in this game when Ryan Sandford lined up against his former club. Moussa Diarra came the closest for Dartford in the first half by hitting the woodwork. The hosts had opportunities in the second-half often missing the target. Both goalkeepers were not really troubled until a stoppage time winner from Maidstone United striker Levi Amantchi, who has since made a move to Bromley.

The Stones have got the better of Dartford in recent times winning the previous four meetings. Another triumph will secure a league double over the Darts, which they also achieved last time the two sides were in the same division in 2021/2022. Maidstone United went up as champions in that campaign but made a swift return to the National South after relegation last term. In that title winning season, the Stones came to Princes Park and won 1-0. The main protagonist that day was former Dart, Jack Barham who netted the only goal of the game to end Dartford’s unbeaten home run of 17 games. The striker also claimed the match ball in the reverse fixture with a hat-trick in a 4-0 Maidstone United victory.

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Open “Dartford vs Maidstone United – National League South – 18/04/2022” directly
Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

George Elokobi’s side hit the headlines this season in the F.A Cup. The Stones went on an historic run to the fifth round to record their best performance in the competition and the best by a tier six team since Blyth Spartans in 1978. In total Maidstone United played eight ties beating Steyning Town, Winchester City and Torquay United to qualify for the first round proper. They went on to knock out Chesham United before defeating three Football League sides Barrow, Stevenage, Ipswich Town. Eventually their run came to an end with a 5-0 loss at Championship club Coventry City.

Since the last meeting between Dartford and Maidstone United, the Stones have been inconsistent in the National South, perhaps down to the distraction of their cup run. After winning at Princes Park two months ago they occupied third spot, but four wins and defeats plus three draws have seen Elokobi’s side fall out of a top seven place.

Maidstone United aim to get back on track and on Tuesday night they picked up an eleventh home win of the season by beating second place Chelmsford City. Two goals in the final ten minutes from Sam Corne and Matt Rush made the difference. Corne scored from the spot, whilst Rush added his 14th National South goal of the campaign, for Aveley and the Stones. Victory has put the Maidstone United level on points with Bath City, who are in seventh place and was just the tonic after suffering only their third home league defeat of the season on the weekend against St Albans City.

Current Standings

Team Played Points GD
Torquay United 37 41 -3
Taunton Town 33 40 -11
Welling United 37 40 -16
Truro City 32 38 -7
DARTFORD 37 38 -11
Eastbourne Borough 37 34 -26
Havant and Waterlooville 38 32 -27
Dover Athletic 37 22 -31

Current League Form

Dartford (WLDLLL) Maidstone United  (DLWDLW)
Braintree Town A 1-2 Chelmsford City H 2-0
Torquay United A 1-4 St Albans City H 1-2
Aveley H 1-2 Bath City H 2-2
Taunton Town H 1-1 Dover Athletic A 1-0
Slough Town A 2-3 Aveley A 0-2
Dover Athletic A 2-1 Hemel Hempstead H 1-1

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 49 / Draws: 19

Last Six Meetings

Maidstone United 2 – 1 Dartford (09/01/2024 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/11/2023 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/04/2022 – National South)
Maidstone United 4 – 0 Dartford (11/12/2021 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 3 Dartford (02/10/2021 – F.A Cup)
Maidstone United 0 – 2 Dartford (14/11/2020 – National South)

Statistics

  • Dartford are on their longest winless home run in all competitions against Maidstone United, three draws followed by three defeats. One of those draws ended in a penalty shoot-out loss.
  • In the league, Dartford’s current streak of three without a home victory against the Stones (D2, L1) is their longest since 1922 to 1923 (D2, L1)
  • The Darts set an unbeaten record by either side of eight league games in this fixture between 2008 and 2020 (W6, D2). Since then, Dartford have lost three in a row, a fourth would equal a losing league streak set 122 years ago.

On This Day

Dartford have been beaten on this day on the last three occasions with the most recent against Torquay United in 2019, Jamie Reid scored both goals. In the National League six years earlier, the Darts lost 1-0 at Hyde. The last home match on this day was back in 2010 when Boreham Wood won 2-1, Lee Burns the Dartford goalscorer. Prior those three losses, the Darts had lost just one in ten on 16 March. In 1972 they reached the Kent Senior Cup final with a 2-0 victory against Sheppey United.

Braintree Town v Dartford

March 12, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Dartford face a tough task in their relegation battle when they cross the Thames to take on Braintree Town on Tuesday night.

The Darts have won just one of their last twelve in the National South. The Iron are unbeaten in their last eleven and occupy a playoff place. Only once have Dartford came home with a victory from Cressing Road and that was twelve years ago.

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Open “BRAINTREE TOWN VS DARTFORD | NATIONAL LEAGUE SOUTH | 18/02/2023” directly
Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Braintree Town are six unbeaten in this fixture on home soil, yet Dartford have managed to pick up three draws in their previous four visits. Last season’s trip to Cressing Road saw the Darts pick up a creditable point. Under Angelo Harrop the Iron have an impressive record on their own patch. Blair found the back of the Dartford net again before Jernade Meade netted the equaliser.

Dartford lost the reverse fixture against Braintree Town in November when Aaron Blair hit a double for the Iron. Blair’s brace came in the second-half after Rooney had been sent off for the Darts in the first-half. Baris Altintop was in Dartford’s side four months ago, since then he has returned to the Iron. The 23 year-old made 24 appearances during his half a season with the Darts scoring once.

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Open “DARTFORD VS BRAINTREE TOWN | NATIONAL LEAGUE SOUTH | 21/11/2023” directly
Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Ady Pennock named his first lineup as Dartford boss on the weekend with Jordan Greenidge making his first start since rejoining the club from Tonbridge Angels. Joash Nembhard completed his suspension so returned to the side and Tommy Block was back from injury. Former Braintree Town midfielder Luke Allen was in action again after making a substitute appearance. Olly Box missed out from the matchday squad as did Paul Rooney who picked up an injury in Dartford’s last outing. Jordan Wynter was suspended and will serve his second game of his two match ban on Tuesday night. Sam Odaudu was still sidelined.

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Open “HIGHLIGHTS: United 4 – 1 Dartford” directly
Highlights courtesy of Official TUFC TV

A positive start and first half from the Darts included an Fumnaya Shomotun effort that struck the post just three minutes in. However the visitors were unable to take their opportunities in the opening forty five and were arguably the better side. Defensive mistakes led to Dartford unraveling during a four minute collapse in the second half. For a consecutive game the Darts conceded quickfire goals and fell to another defeat. At home to Aveley they let in two late goals in three minutes to give up a one goal lead. This time with the scores level Dartford shipped in three goals in five minutes in a 4-1 loss at Torquay United.

Aaron Jarvis scored a penalty, Arkell Jude-Boyd added a second and a goal by Bradley Ash saw the hosts race ahead. Ibby Akanbi pulled one back for the Darts to record his first goal for the club. To rub salt into the wound, former Dart, Duane Ofori-Acheampong added another to Torquay United’s haul.

With Welling United, Eastbourne Borough and Taunton Town all winning, the Darts are edging ever closer to the relegation zone and are just a point clear of the bottom four.

Team Played Points GD
Welling United 37 40 -16
Truro City 32 38 -7
DARTFORD 36 38 -9
Taunton Town 32 37 -14
Eastbourne Borough 36 33 -26
Havant and Waterlooville 37 29 -28
Dover Athletic 37 21 -31

Braintree Town started the year with a Essex derby defeat to Chelmsford City. The Iron had a sense of deja vu as they suffered the same fate on Boxing Day by losing to the Clarets 3-0 in both festive fixtures. Since then Angelo Harrop’s side have gone unbeaten, are in fifth spot and are on course to reach the playoffs. The Iron currently have a three point cushion over eighth place.

On the weekend they were held to a 1-1 draw against fellow playoff chasers Slough Town. Blair scored in his fourth consecutive match to put the hosts in front. Then Slough Town substitute Trae Cook-Appiah was introduced and levelled for the visitors.

It was the second game running in which Braintree Town picked up a point. A week earlier they drew 2-2 at a rejuvenated Welling United. The Iron came from behind twice in the first-half. The Wings took a tenth minute lead through Jack Burchell. Late in the opening forty-five equalised through Blair Then it was a tale of two penalty kicks, Anthony Grant netted for Welling United and Shaq Coulthirst for the Iron.

Despite not being able to pick up maximum points in each of their last two outings, Braintree Town won seven in a row leading up to the pair of draws. To close February they went to Bath City and claimed a 2-1 victory, the four games before that all ended in 1-0 wins against Worthing, Tonbridge Angels, Torquay United and Chippenham Town. The start of last month began with a convincing 3-0 triumph at home to Dover Athletic and January finished with a 2-1 win versus Truro City.

Current League Form

Dartford (LWLDLL) Braintree Town (WWWWDD)
Torquay United A 1-4 Slough Town H 1-1
Aveley H 1-2 Welling United A 2-2
Taunton Town H 1-1 Bath City A 2-1
Slough Town A 2-3 Worthing A 1-0
Dover Athletic A 2-1 Tonbridge Angels H 1-0
Chippenham Town H 0-1 Torquay United H 1-0

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Braintree Town wins: 9 / Draws: 6

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 0 – 2 Braintree Town (21/11/2023 – National South)
Braintree Town 1 – 1 Dartford (18/02/2023 – National South)
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)

Statistics

  • Dartford have recorded just two victories in the last 15 matches against Braintree Town (D5, L8)
  • The Darts have gone 13 games without a clean sheet against the Iron. Their last clean sheet was in a 0-0 draw in 2013.
  • Jack Smith could make his 50th Dartford appearance. The midfielder has made 41 starts, eight substitute appearances and scored four goals for the club
  • The Iron have won 23, drawn 13 and lost just 4 at home in the National South since Angelo Harrop has been in charge

On This Day

Dartford won five in a row on this day between 1983 and 1997, but since then they have not won in just as many attempts. During the Kent League days, the Darts beat Slade Green twice in the nineties (1994 and 1996) on 12 March before a 1-0 win against Buckingham Town in the Southern League Southern Division in 1997. The only point picked up by Dartford in the last five outings on this day came in a 2-2 draw versus Basingstoke Town 13 years ago. Future Dart, Delano Sam-Yorke scored either side of goals from Ryan Hayes and Danny Harris. The Darts were humbled at home in a 6-1 loss to Barking and East Ham United in 2005. The last two matches on this day have ended in 4-2 defeats against Whitehawk in 2016 and Chippenham Town two years ago.

Torquay United v Dartford

March 8, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Adrian Pennock takes charge of his first Dartford game this weekend when his new side takes on Torquay United.

The new boss has been keeping an eye on recent performances prior his appointment and will put his knowledge and experience to the test on Saturday. Pennock is looking for a positive approach as the Darts get ready to fight to remain in the National South. A run of just one win in 11 games has left Dartford with ’11 cup finals’ to play according to the former Gillingham and Barrow manager.

Torquay United are on a run akin to the Darts with just one victory in 13 attempts. The Gulls solitary league win in that sequence was against bottom of the table Dover Athletic, the only side Dartford have beaten in the league since Boxing Day. The Gulls have since announced they are struggling financially, have seen Gary Johnson leave the club and replaced in the dugout by Aaron Downes.

Dartford claimed their first ever win over Torquay United in the meeting earlier this season. A 12 minute spell at the end of the first half put the Darts in control. Three players opened their goalscoring account for the club. Richard Chin’s return to the club went perfectly well and he put the hosts in front with a curling shot into the top corner. George Alexander scored on debut with a delightful turn and shot. Finally, Moussa Diarra volleyed his side further ahead in a 3-0 win.

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Open “DARTFORD VS TORQUAY UNITED | NATIONAL LEAGUE SOUTH | 25/11/2023” directly
Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The Darts had four previous failed attempts at victory over the Gulls. The first fixture between the two sides came in August 2014 at Princes Park. Elliot Bradbrook skimmed the top of the crossbar from a penalty in a 0-0 draw. Eight months later at Plainmoor, James McQuilkin broke the deadlock from 20 yards. With eight minutes to go, Jordan Chiedozie equalised from close range.

After both sides were relegated to the National South, in different seasons, their paths crossed again during the 2018/2019 campaign. Torquay United came out on top on both occasions winning 2-0 home and away. At Princes Park, the Gulls went top of the league thanks to two goals in the final quarter of the match. Ruairi Keating crashed a volley into the roof of the net and Jamie Reid sealed maximum points. By the time the reverse fixture came around, Torquay United were battling for the title. Gary Johnson’s side were reduced to ten men as early as the 13th minute when Jean-Yves Koue Niate was sent off. Despite having a man advantage Dartford couldn’t make it count. Instead, Reid scored another two goals against the Darts to complete a double.

The Darts are perilously close to the relegation zone after a late capitulation over a week ago against Aveley. Dartford now have a four-point cushion, but those on their tails have games in hand which could see Pennock’s side drop into the bottom four. The 52-year-old will use his experience and contacts to try and guide his latest club towards safety. He has already secured the return of Jordan Greenidge from Tonbridge Angels. The striker was on loan at Dartford during the 2020/2021 season where he managed six goals in eight appearances.

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Once again, crucial points were dropped from a winning position in Dartford’s last outing. In Tony Burman’s last game as interim manager, he made three changes to the starting lineup. Tyrell Miller-Rodney and Olly Box returned to the side at the expense of Maxwell Statham, who picked up a knock and Elliott Romain, whilst Manny Adebowale replaced the suspended Joash Nembhard at the back. Brandon Barzey was named on the bench after recovering from a hamstring injury he picked up over a month ago. Tommy Block, Sam Odaudu and Luke Allen were still on the injury list.

Dartford put in a good performance for most of the game and were rewarded when Fumnaya Shomotun scored his second in as many games. Rooney was forced off injured leaving defensive options dwindling, which Aveley took advantage from. With ten minutes to go and against the run of play Nana Kyei equalised. A couple of minutes later Billy Terrell conceded a penalty and Siju Odelusi completed the turnaround.

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Torquay United are facing financial problems off the pitch which has seen them serve notice of their intention to appoint administrators. At present that just means the Gulls are looking to find new owners. However, should the club enter administration then a ten-point deduction and transfer embargo will be imposed. Since the announcement Gary Johnson departed as manager and in his place is Aaron Downes. His first game was against Aveley in which he witnessed a two-goal lead vanish either side of half-time. Aaron Jarvis and Bradley Ash netted their tenth goals of the season to put Torquay United in command. However, Siju Odelusi pulled one back from the spot just before the break. Eduino Vaz equalised early in the second-half to secure a 2-2 draw.

Last weekend Torquay United secured a third consecutive draw in a 1-1 stalemate at Weymouth. Arkell Jude-Boyd scored his first goal for the Gulls to put Torquay United ahead. Once again, Downes’ side let the lead slip and conceded just before half-time when Ezio Touray made it 1-1.

The start of Torquay United’s current run of draws, which also includes a 1-1 stalemate with Farnborough, ended a sequence of five straight defeats against playoff chasing opponents. The Gulls were beaten by Worthing, St Albans City, Maidstone United, Slough Town and Braintree Town. In 2024, the only victory tasted by the Devonshire side was at home versus bottom of the table Dover Athletic. That triumph is their only one in 14 attempts in all competitions stretching back to mid-December.

Torquay United’s current run of form, like Dartford’s is concerning. Only the Devonshire club have a 14-point cushion over the relegation zone and are just ten points away from the playoffs. So, the off-field issues may have a huge impact on how their season pans out. A points deduction will drag them into a battle at the bottom and a fight for survival. Should Torquay United find investors then they are likely to have enough to remain in the National South.

Current League Form

Dartford (LLWLDL) Torquay United (LLLDDD)
Aveley H 1-2 Weymouth A 1-1
Taunton Town H 1-1 Aveley H 2-2
Slough Town A 2-3 Farnborough A 0-0
Dover Athletic A 2-1 Braintree Town A 0-1
Chippenham Town H 0-1 Slough Town H 3-4
Bath City A 0-1 Maidstone United A 2-3

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 1 / Torquay United wins: 2 / Draws: 2

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 3 – 0 Torquay United (25/11/2023 – National South)
Torquay United 2 – 0 Dartford (16/03/2019 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 2 Torquay United (04/12/2018 – National South)
Torquay United 1 – 1 Dartford (04/04/2015 – National League)
Dartford 0 – 0 Torquay United (23/08/2014 – National League)

Statistics

  • Only Torquay United and Dover Athletic (3) have picked up fewer points in the last eight games than Dartford (4)
  • Goalkeeper, Billy Terrell has yet to keep a clean sheet in his nine appearances since joining the club on loan

On This Day

Dartford have won their last six fixtures on 9 March and are unbeaten in their last ten. The run includes two F.A Trophy quarter-final wins, a Kent Senior Trophy triumph and a Southern League Cup semi-final draw. One of those F.A Trophy victories was on route to reaching Wembley in 1974. Thanks to an own goal, the Darts beat Weymouth 2-1 on the road.

Three years later Dartford drew 1-1 with Kettering Town in the Southern League Cup semi-final first leg. The return fixture at Watling Street finished 4-2 to send the Darts into the final where they beat Yeovil Town 3-1 on aggregate.

In 1996 Dartford had an almighty title tussle with Furness eventually losing out on goal difference. The two sides met on this day in the Kent Senior Trophy semi-final and Dean Bowey scored the winner. Steve Robinson went on to lift the trophy after the Darts beat Chatham Town 3-0 in the final.

Lee Burns scored the winner against Maidstone United in the Isthmian Premier League Kent derby in 2010. The Darts claimed a huge scalp in the National League beating Wrexham 2-1 in 2013. Burman’s side came from behind after Danny Wright opened the scoring at Princes Park. Jack Evans equalised for the hosts and Elliot Bradbrook netted a stoppage time header. Dartford’s last game on this day was four years ago when Phil Roberts scored a stunning volley and Charlie Sheringham converted from the spot.

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