Author: Stuart Maidment (Page 17 of 35)

Weston-super-Mare v Dartford

January 5, 2024 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford begin the year with a cross country trip to Weston-super-Mare this weekend in the National South.

The Darts picked up just one win in December to finish an inconsistent twelve months in thirteenth place. Over the festive period Alan Dowson’s side managed to add four points to their tally against local rivals Welling United. This weekend’s opponents had back to back matches against Weymouth and gained just one point.

Dartford’s festive double header with Welling United saw them win on the road and draw back at Princes Park. On Boxing Day, the Darts claimed a maximum at Park View Road. Richard Chin scored the only goal of the game just before the hour mark.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In the reverse fixture, Dowson made no changes to the starting eleven for the first time in almost two months. However, injuries to Luke Allen and Chin meant the pair were unable to finish the game. As a result, Chin’s loan spell has come to an end for now with an option of returning once fit to play again. After coming back to the club, Jack Smith was named on the bench and made his first appearance since returning. Once again, the Darts went ahead when Luke Coulson volleyed Paul Rooney’s cross. With minutes left of the Kent derby, Welling United salvaged a point in the 97^th minute when Ike Orji’s cross went in off Moussa Diarra.

Weston-super-Mare started this year as they ended the last with plenty of goals. During December the six games involving the Seagulls produced 28 goals. In the F.A Trophy they knocked out Dowson’s old club Woking winning 3-2. They also lost by the same scoreline in the league at home to Truro City the week after, then on Boxing Day versus Weymouth. Scott Bartlett’s side began last month by hitting four in consecutive games beating Welling United 4-2 and Worthing 4-0. The Saturday before Christmas was a relatively low scoring affair. The Seagulls were defeated 2-1 at Hampton and Richmond Borough.

On New Year’s Day the reverse fixture against Weymouth ended 3-3. Another entertaining game left Weston-super-Mare disappointed down in Dorset. The Somerset club twice had a two-goal lead but failed to hang on. Bartlett made two changes to the side that lost against the Terras six days earlier, Jordan Bastin and Alex Fletcher making a start. Dayle Grubb set up Sam Avery for Weston’s first, then a minute later Fletcher scored. In first half-stoppage time Brandon Goodship’s penalty halved the deficit for the hosts. Reuben Reid restored a two-goal cushion ten minutes after the interval with his eighth league goal of the season. However, Goodship and Ezio Touray completed the comeback to leave the match all square. The Seagulls are now two points behind the Darts with a game in hand.

In October, Dartford beat the Seagulls at Princes Park. The first meeting between the two sides in four and half years produced six goals. In a game full of action, Coulson was involved in three goals, Mitchell Beeney saved a penalty and Alex Wall netted and received a red card.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Halfway through the first half Reuben Reid put the visitors ahead. Six minutes later Weston-super-Mare were awarded a spot kick, which was kept out by Beeney. Coulson set up Rooney before half-time as the sides went in level at the break. In the second-half it was Dartford’s turn to win a penalty, but this time Coulson scored. Wall added a third and the striker made it four after finishing Coulson’s cross. Luke Pearce scored a late consolation for the Seagulls in an entertaining match.

Dartford’s last two trips to Weston-super-Mare have ended in defeat. On both occasions the Darts conceded three times. In April 2019, Ryan Hayes scored a consolation. The Seagulls were three up before half-time. In September 2017, Weston-super-Mare scored three without reply.

League Form

Dartford (WDLLWD)			Weston-super-Mare (WWLLLD)
Welling United	H	1-1	Weymouth	A	3-3
Welling United	A	1-0	Weymouth	H	2-3
St Albans City	H	0-3	Hampton & Richmond	A	1-2
Tonbridge Angels	A	0-4	Truro City	H	2-3
Yeovil Town	H	2-2	Worthing	H	4-0
Torquay United	H	3-0	Welling United	H	4-2

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 10 / Weston-super-Mare wins: 4 / Draws: 4

Previous Meetings

Dartford 4 – 2 Weston-super-Mare (31/10/2023 – National South)
Weston-super-Mare 3 – 1 Dartford (06/04/2019 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Weston-super-Mare (29/09/2018 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 1 Weston-super-Mare (07/04/2018 – National South)
Weston-super-Mare 3 – 0 Dartford (23/09/2017 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 2 Weston-super-Mare (17/01/2017 – National South)

Statistics

The home side has won each of the last six league games in this fixture. The Darts recorded the last league away win in August 2016
The Darts have lost in their last two league visits to the Woodspring Stadium
Dartford have won four of their last six opening games of the year (D1, L1)

On This Day

Dartford have not lost on 6 January for 62 years. Unbeaten in seven on this day, the Darts have drawn their last two. Ben Greenhalgh scored in a 1-1 draw with Concord Rangers in 2018, tbhe last time Dartford played on this day. The previous outing was a goalless affair with Greenwich Borough 28 years ago in the Kent League. Prior the pair of draws the Darts had won five in a row beating Moor Green 4-1 in 1990, Fisher Athletic and Nuneaton Borough 1-0 in 1987 and 1975 respectively and Dover 2-1 two years earlier. The winning streak started against Folkestone with another 1-0 win in 1968. The Darts have only lost twice on this day winning nine and drawing three.

Dartford v Welling United

December 29, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford end the year at home to local rivals Welling United in the National South this weekend.

Just four days since their Boxing Day clash both sides are looking to pick up vital points in the league. Dartford’s inconsistent campaign can go a variety of ways in a tight division. Optimistic in chasing a playoff place, the Darts are hoping to move up the table. Welling United have the same ambitions, but victory for them will help them in their current relegation battle.

The Darts edged the Boxing Day clash thanks to Richard Chin’s third goal of the season. Alan Dowson made two changes to the side that collapsed against St Albans City in their last home game. In came Paul Rooney and Luke Allen to replace Jordan Wynter and Harvey Bradbury. At Park View Road, in a poor first half there wasn’t much between the two sides, the hosts just about the better team. However, Dartford approached the second-half with much more energy and were rewarded just before the hour. George Alexander was put through on goal, but his effort was saved. Chin kept pace and he stroked home the rebound into an empty net.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The first away clean sheet since August helped Dartford to three important points. Victory moved them up five places into thirteenth. Meanwhile, Welling United remain in the relegation zone eight points from safety.

Ahead of Dartford’s final game of 2023, Dowson has re-signed midfielder Jack Smith. The 22 year-old returns after a spell with National North side King’s Lynn Town. He made 35 appearances whilst on loan with the Darts last season scoring four goals.

In Kent derbies Dowson had excelled, winning nine of his first ten in league. Welling United were the only team to stop the Darts with a draw, until defeat at Tonbridge Angels a fortnight ago. The unbeaten Kent derby run in the National South ended emphatically when Dartford were handsomely beaten by the Angels. However, Dartford do have an excellent record in league competition against the Wings.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Yet it was Danny Bloor’s side who won last time out at Princes Park when they met in September. For a second season in a row the Darts exited the F.A Cup at the first hurdle. Antony Papadopoulos was Welling United’s hat-trick hero as the Wings came to Princes Park and won 3-2. Dartford twice took the lead through Lewis Manor. However, Papadopoulos had the answer to send Dowson’s side out of the competition.

Dartford last hosted Welling United in the National South just over a year ago when they were on a crest of a wave. During Dowson’s best spell since his appointment, they won 5-1. Racing into a three-goal lead before the break Pierre Fonkeu, Davide Rodari and former Wing, Maxwell Statham scored the goals to put Dartford well in command. Former Dart, Ade Azeez pulled a goal back for the visitors, but the advantage was later stretched when Jack Smith and Luke Coulson wrapped up a fine display.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The reverse fixture saw the Darts twice go a goal down to come away with a point. George Alexander, now on loan at Dartford scored for the Wings to open the scoring. It took a while for the away team to get going and they were level through another former Wing, Charlie Sheringham. The hosts went back ahead after Ade Azeez smashed a shot in off the underside of the crossbar against his old side, but Malachi Napa confidently finished to level the match at 2-2.

Former players facing their old side is common in this fixture and this term it’s no different. As well as Sheringham, Statham and Alexander, Harvey Bradbury also had a spell at Park View Road. The striker spent some of the 2020/2021 campaign with Welling United scoring twice in eight appearances. Lining up against Dartford could be goalkeeper Charles-Cook and full back Rob Howard. Both spent a short amount of time with the Darts, Charles Cook made nine appearances and Howard seven.

Welling United had a terrible start to their campaign with an opening day thrashing at newly promoted Truro City. The Wings went on to lose their first four matches before getting their first victories. Incredibly Welling United went on a ten-match winless streak involving seven draws. An entertaining 4-3 win at home to Slough Town ended that run before a 4-1 reverse to Braintree Town. Bloor’s side shocked league leaders Yeovil Town with a 4-1 home triumph a month ago, but they are still in need of points as they approach the New Year. One point in their last five outings and no goals in the last three has put the Wings under more pressure.

League Form

Dartford (LWDLLW)			Welling United (WLDLLL)
Welling United	A	1-0	Dartford	H	0-1
St Albans City	H	0-3	Bath City	A	0-4
Tonbridge Angels	A	0-4	Eastbourne Borough	H	0-2
Yeovil Town	H	2-2	Aveley	A	2-2
Torquay United	H	3-0	Weston-super-Mare	A	2-4
Braintree Town	H	0-2	Yeovil Town	H	4-1

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 26 / Welling United wins: 11 / Draws: 12

Previous Meetings

Welling United 0 – 1 Dartford (26/12/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 3 Welling United (15/09/2023 – F.A Cup)
Welling United 2 – 2 Dartford (04/02/2023 – National South)
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 won 5-3 on penalties

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in nine league games against Welling United (W7, D2)
At home, the Darts have taken 22 out of the last 24 points available versus the Wings (W7, D1) and have only ever lost one league match to Welling United in December 2013 (W10, D2)
Dartford have lost just one in the last 17 league matches against Welling United (W11, D5)

On This Day

It’s been 15 years since Dartford played on 30 December. The Darts ended 2008 with a win at Ramsgate, Jamie Day scoring the only goal in the Isthmian Premier League contest. At Princes Park, two years earlier Ryan Hayes scored twice in a 4-2 victory over Whyteleafe. Ryan Briggs and Brendon Cass also netted in the Isthmian Division One South fixture. In 1989, Dartford also defeated Crawley Town 2-0 in the Southern Premier League at Watling Street. Another win to close 2023 will make it four in a row on this day.

Welling United v Dartford

December 24, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford’s last game on the road this year takes place on Boxing Day when they visit local rivals Welling United in the National South.

The Darts’ last Kent derby ended Alan Dowson’s near perfect league record against fellow county opponents. Prior defeat at Tonbridge Angels, the Wings were the only Kent side to have taken points from Dartford since Dowson’s appointment in a draw ten months ago.

In that game, Welling United had the better of the first half with former Dart, Ade Azeez hitting the post. Just before the break George Alexander, now at Dartford scored on his Wings debut. A better second half showing for the Darts saw Charlie Sheringham equalise against his former club. However, the hosts were back in front when Azeez smashed a shot in off the underside of the crossbar. The points were shared when substitute Malachai Napa made an impact by curling home the equaliser.

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Highlights courtesy of Welling United FC Official

Dartford were dominant in the reverse fixture last season. At Princes Park the Darts ran out 5-1 winners. Pierre Fonkeu and Davide Rodari scored to set up a fine performance for the hosts. Former Welling United defender added a third before half-time. Azeez may have pulled a goal back for the visitors, but Jack Smith and Luke Coulson wrapped up a resounding victory.

Boxing Day will be the second time Dowson’s side have faced Welling United this term. The pair were drawn out in the F.A Cup second qualifying round three months ago. The Wings progressed with a 3-2 win and their first triumph at Princes Park in almost ten years. Antony Papadopoulos grabbed the headlines with a hat-trick. Dartford took the lead twice through Lewis Manor though, but the Wings fought back before netting a winner fifteen minutes to go.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In the last dozen visits to Park View Road, the Darts have lost just once in normal time. However, seven of those meetings have ended all square including the last two. Four of Dartford’s trips to DA16 have been on Boxing Day. The most memorable of those a last minute 3-2 victory in 2017 in which Alfie Pavey scored a stunner. Most recently, four years ago Dartford won 3-0 courtesy of Darren McQueen and Elliot Romain. The Wings won the 2018 fixture 2-0, whilst back in 2011 it finished 1-1.

Yet Dartford approach this Kent derby having lost their last two, conceding seven without reply. After the 4-0 loss at Tonbridge Angels, Dowson made two changes to the side that faced St Albans City at home. Tyrell Miller-Rodney and Luke Coulson were back in the starting eleven. Once again, the Saints were thankful for Shaun Jeffers scoring against the Darts. His strike with twenty minutes remaining opened up the hosts, the visitors went on to win 3-0.

Slipping to eighteenth in the division, Dartford are now six points off the playoffs and the relegation zone. Dowson will need to find a way to instill some confidence in his players over a crucial period for his side’s season.

There are now three Kent clubs in the bottom seven and Welling United are one of those. The Wings suffered a heavy loss at Bath City on the weekend to leave them third from bottom and five points from safety. Only Havant and Waterlooville have conceded more goals than Danny Bloor’s team this term, the Wings have let in two or more six of their last seven outings.

League Form

Dartford (WLWDLL)			Welling United (LWLDLL)
St Albans City	H	0-3	Bath City	A	0-4
Tonbridge Angels	A	0-4	Eastbourne Borough	H	0-2
Yeovil Town	H	2-2	Aveley	A	2-2
Torquay United	H	3-0	Weston-super-Mare	A	2-4
Braintree Town	H	0-2	Yeovil Town	H	4-1
Worthing	A	4-3	Braintree Town	A	1-4

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 25 / Welling United wins: 11 / Draws: 12

Previous Meetings

Dartford 2 – 3 Welling United (15/09/2023 – F.A Cup)
Welling United 2 – 2 Dartford (04/02/2023 – National South)
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)
* – Welling United won 5-3 on penalties

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in eight league games against Welling United (W6, D2)
The Darts are unbeaten in their last three league games at Park View Road (W2, D1)
Dartford have lost just once in their last nine league visits (W3, D5)

On This Day

Dartford have won five of their last six Boxing Day matches with only Welling United beating them in 2018. A year ago, the Darts went to Stonebridge Road and thrashed eventual champions Ebbsfleet United. It sealed a first North West Kent derby victory away at the Fleet since 1979. Luke Allen scored after 45 seconds to set the tone, Luke Coulson doubled the lead on five minutes and Maxwell Statham added a third with just eleven on the clock. Alex Wall netted just before the break and there was still time for Ebbsfleet United to get off the mark prior half-time.

The last home game on this day was also against Ebbsfleet United in 2016. Tom Bonner and Duane Ofori-Acheampong put the Darts in command. Craig Tanner halved the deficit for Fleet, but Dartford held out for a 2-1 triumph. The three fixtures between the two clashes with Ebbsfleet United were against Welling United.

This will be Dartford’s 79th Boxing Day game and their 51st at home. In total the Darts have won 30, drawn 21 and lost 25. Two fixtures have been abandoned on this day. The infamous 1959 clash with Gravesend and Northfleet and a 1985 National League match at Maidstone United.

Dartford v St Albans City

December 22, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford play their penultimate home game of the year when they host St Albans City this weekend in the National South.

The Darts had their hearts broken last time the Saints visited Princes Park. A penalty shoot-out defeat in the playoff semi-final ended any hope of promotion. This season neither side have hit the same heights, however both teams have plenty of time to make their way into the top seven.

In a tightly congested mid-table, Dartford are looking for the consistency that will give them a nudge up the table. Last weekend, their run of home matches was split up with a short away trip to Tonbridge Angels. Alan Dowson made two changes to the side, Archie Woods came in for Tyrell Miller-Rodney and Harvey Bradbury returned from suspension. Luke Coulson wasn’t available due to personal commitments.

Dowson’s unbeaten record in league Kent derbies ended emphatically at Longmead. The Dartford boss had won ten and drawn one against his local rivals in the National South. Last weekend his side were three down by half-time as the Angels scored three goals in eleven minutes. Former Dartford striker, Jordan Greenidge got the scoring underway, Lewis Gard doubled the lead and Tariq Hinds added another. To give the scoreline extra gloss for the hosts Greenidge scored again on a miserable afternoon for the Darts.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Defeat leaves Dartford five points from a playoff spot and six points above the relegation places. St Albans City are close behind trailing the Darts by a point. Last term the two sides were hardly separated in the head to head record, winning a game each and drawing the other. Latest form over the last six fixtures is also similar. Dartford may have had two excellent results over Torquay United and Yeovil Town, but they came back down to earth with last weekend’s loss.

The Saints came from behind in their last outing beating Chelmsford City. Former Dart, Ody Alfa set up Callum Watts to put the Clarets ahead. David Noble’s side were given an advantage when Luke Jenkins prevented Shaun Jeffers a goalscoring opportunity. Jenkins was dismissed and Jeffers scored the penalty. St Albans City struggled to find a breakthrough until Ryan Blackman’s late winner.

St Albans City last National South fixture on the road ended in an entertaining 4-4 draw versus Worthing. Another late goal earning the Hertfordshire club something from the game. Four points from their last two games has put behind their defeat at Truro City to start the month.

Dartford have already visited St Albans City this term back in September and lost 1-0. The squad looks stronger now with new signings and fewer players on the treatment table. Three months ago, in extremely hot conditions, Mitchell Weiss scored the winner just before the hour mark.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The Darts have won the last two league clashes at Princes Park against the Saints during the regular National South season. Weeks before that playoff exit, Dowson led his side to a 2-1 victory to secure a runner up spot. In his first spell with the Darts, Chin set up Samir Carruthers for the opener. Jeffers acrobatically equalised in the second-half before Pierre Fonkeu won it for Dartford. In April 2022, the Darts won 3-1 with Keiran Murtagh getting a brace and Marcus Dinanga adding a third.

Current League Form

Dartford (LWLWDL)			St Albans City (LLWLDW)
Tonbridge Angels	A	0-4	Chelmsford City	H	2-1
Yeovil Town	H	2-2	Worthing	A	4-4
Torquay United	H	3-0	Truro City	A	1-3
Braintree Town	H	0-2	Maidstone United	H	3-2
Worthing	A	4-3	Weston-super-Mare	H	0-1
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Tonbridge Angels	H	2-3

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 12 / St Albans City wins: 7 / Draws: 7

Previous Meetings

St Albans City 1 – 0 Dartford (23/09/2023 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 St Albans City (07/05/2023 – National South Playoffs)*
Dartford 2 – 1 St Albans City (22/04/2023 – National South)
St Albans City 1 – 1 Dartford (22/10/2022 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 1 St Albans City (23/04/2022 – National South)
St Albans City 1 – 3 Dartford (14/08/2021 – National South)
* – St Albans City won 5-3 on penalties

Statistics

At Princes Park, Dartford have won the last two in the National South against the Saints
In this fixture, the Darts have lost just one in the last six league matches at home (W4, D1)
In normal time at home, Dartford have fared better in this fixture losing just twice in 14 meetings (W7, D5)
St Albans City have scored in each of their last 16 games against the Darts

On This Day

Dartford have drawn five of their last six matches on this day. Six years ago, the Darts hosted Braintree Town. Andy Pugh put the Darts in front only for Marcel Barrington to level in the second-half. In 2006, Ryan Hayes and Jay May scored in a 2-2 draw at Walton Casuals in the Isthmian Division One South. An away game at Histon ended 2-2 back 23 years ago. Dartford’s only victory in the last six on this day was in the F.A Trophy. The Darts won a replay versus Merthyr Tydfil 4-2 in 1986. Exactly 16 years earlier the same two teams had a Southern League First Division match abandoned after 37 minutes.

Tonbridge Angels v Dartford

December 15, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

The first of three Kent derbies over the festive period is on the horizon for Dartford as they host Tonbridge Angels on the weekend.

Alan Dowson has a near impeccable record when it comes to local league fixtures. After recent positive results and the introduction of three new faces, the Darts look like they have renewed energy. Tonbridge Angels are a point ahead and two places above Dartford. Under Jay Saunders they have put a decent run together since visiting Princes Park almost three months ago.

When Paul Rooney scored the only goal of the game in September it left the Angels down in twentieth. Now this weekend’s opponents are sitting in tenth and like the Darts aiming for a playoff position. The 1-0 victory was Dowson’s ninth Kent derby win in the National South since joining the club. The only dropped points came in the draw at Welling United last season.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The one thing Dartford have been this season is consistent in their inconsistency. Alan Dowson has attempted to address this issue with the signings of Ryan Sandford in goal, Richard Chin and George Alexander. The trio have breathed life into the side, when speaking to Pure DFC the Dartford boss said: “The three new signings we’ve made have been a massive benchmark. Our keeper has been outstanding, Chin has, and I think George has. So, the three new signings we’ve made have made a massive difference to the way we play”.

To conclude November, the Darts deservedly beat Torquay United 3-0 at home. Chin’s return went perfectly well, his curling shot found the top corner. Alexander then scored on debut with a delightful turn and shot. Finally, Moussa Diarra scored his first for the club as well. The Darts added another win with a much-changed side in the Kent Senior Cup beating Bromley 5-1.

A first clean sheet for Sandford was followed up by a Player of the Match performance against league leaders Yeovil Town last weekend. After the opening ten minutes it felt like it could be a long afternoon for the Darts. The Glovers took the lead from the spot through Rhys Murphy but could have already scored a few times. Somehow Dartford went in at the break level, former Tonbridge Angel midfielder Luke Allen set up Alexander for his second in as many games. Dowson agreed with Sandford’s reward for an excellent display, he commented after the match: “Ryan’s got man of the match for a reason because he saved our blushes in the first half. We could have come in 4-1, 5-1, 6-1 down”.

In the second half the hosts improved. Chin netted in consecutive matches to give the Darts a shock lead with twenty minutes remaining. However, the Glovers showed why they are topping the table when Jordan Young equalised to leave the score all square. Despite a difficult start to the game, the Dartford boss was pleased with the response after the break. He praised his side’s battling qualities and work rate, adding: “Second half we were miles better and I thought we looked quite comfortable”.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The Darts will see striker Harvey Bradbury available against Tonbridge Angels. Dowson believes his return from suspension will provide better options, he stated: “We got Harvey coming back in, we need his pace and power. It gives us more options and that is what we need around the pitch”. Although the Darts manager would like to see the defence tighten up more, he feels the last few performances have been positive, he said: “If we show the same attitude and the same desire, we’re scoring a lot of goals at the minute, just cut out conceding and we will be fine”.

Out of the current clubs in the division, Dartford have probably had the most joy against Tonbridge Angels. Just one defeat in the last seventeen competitive meetings, the Darts have won the last four and kept three consecutive clean sheets. The Angels have picked up a solitary point in the league against Dartford out of the last 21 available. Their only victory in this fixture since March 2009 brought the end to Dartford’s joint manager experiment. Shortly after the 3-2 loss at Longmead four years ago, Adam Flanagan and Jamie Coyle left the club.

Since that defeat, the Darts have visited Longmead twice reversing the scoreline in January 2022. Danny Leonard scored a brace before Tommy Wood halved the deficit. Dartford restored the two goal cushion when Jack Jebb scored a free-kick. With the game almost over Ibrahim Olutade netted a consolation. The last trip to TN10 came in April this year and the visitors came out on top again. A long ball from goalkeeper Ben Dudzinski found its way to Malachai Napa who grabbed the only goal of the game.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Tonbridge Angels ended up in ninth last season, their highest position since the seventies. This campaign they are on target to challenge that finish. Yet they were languishing just above the relegation zone after the reverse fixture at Princes Park. Since September, the Angels have only tasted defeat twice in the National South. Saunders has guided the Kent club to five wins and five draws in that time.

One of those losses came in their last league outing bringing an end to a seven-match unbeaten run in the National South. A 2-1 defeat down in Devon against Torquay United leaves Tonbridge Angels, a point ahead of Dartford and a win from a top seven place. In their last home game, they beat Havant and Waterlooville 4-1 with former Dart, Jordan Greenidge scoring his sixth of the season. The striker had a prolific spell with the Darts scoring six goals in just eight appearances. Jernade Meade is another ex-player who could be up against he Darts. The full-back played 40 times for Dartford scoring one goal.

Current League Form

Dartford (LWLWLD)			Tonbridge Angels (DWWDWL)
Yeovil Town	H	2-2	Torquay United	A	1-2
Torquay United	H	3-0	Havant & Waterlooville	H	4-1
Braintree Town	H	0-2	Aveley	A	1-1
Worthing	A	4-3	Eastbourne Borough	A	3-0
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	St Albans City	A	3-2
Weston-super-Mare	H	4-2	Hampton & Richmond	H	0-0

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 73 / Tonbridge Angels wins: 38 / Draws: 25

Previous Meetings

Dartford 1 – 0 Tonbridge Angels (23/09/2023 – National South)
Tonbridge Angels 0 – 1 Dartford (15/04/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 0 Tonbridge Angels (15/10/2022 – National South)
Tonbridge Angels 2 – 3 Dartford (29/01/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Tonbridge Angels (11/09/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Tonbridge Angels (05/01/2021 – National South

Statistics

Dartford have won ten of their last 12 league games against Tonbridge Angels (D1, L1)
In all competitions, the Darts have lost just once against the Angels in the last 17 matches (W14, D2)
Dartford have won six of the last seven at Longmead in all competitions (D0, L1)
The Darts have kept clean sheets versus Tonbridge Angels in each of the last three games

On This Day

Dartford held National League side Boreham Wood to a 1-1 draw six years ago. Ricky Shakes gave the Wood the lead at Princes Park. Tom Murphy levelled for the Darts in the F.A Trophy tie. The hosts played the final quarter with ten men after Alex Brown was sent off, but held out for a replay.

The Darts drew in their fifth ever match at Princes Park back in 2006. Richard Avery and Ryan Hayes were on the scoresheet in the 2-2 stalemate with Metropolitan Police. Dartford’s last away game on this day was back in 1995 when they won 5-0 at Tunbridge Wells in the Kent League.

Dartford v Yeovil Town

December 7, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford return to National South action this weekend welcoming league leaders Yeovil Town to Princes Park.

Almost 34 years since the last meeting in the F.A Trophy, the pair have drawn four of the last five league matches against each other. Both fixtures in the 1984/1985 Conference season finished level with Dartford drawing 1-1 at home and 2-2 away. However, the last time the Darts took on the Glovers was five years later in the F.A Trophy. Yeovil Town went on to win the first round tie 2-1 at Watling Street.

the two sides and The Darts will be on home soil for a fifth consecutive game this weekend and hope they can cause an upset. Alan Dowson’s side have racked up eight goals in their last two outings. Surprising Torquay United in their last league fixture, they also beat Bromley in the cup. Yeovil Town have set a club record already this season and top the table. The Glovers won 14 consecutive games in all competitions to reach the summit.

Despite an away win at Worthing almost four weeks ago, the Darts lost three on the trot at home. Chelmsford City, Maidstone United and then Braintree Town all came to DA1 and went home with a victory. However, Dartford bounced back in style and perhaps unexpectedly pulled out an excellent 3-0 win against Torquay United.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The additions of Richard Chin and George Alexander made an immediate impact. Both scored against the Gulls and Moussa Diarra also opened his account. Dowson made a move to improve results and for that game changed five of the starting line-up. Victory has kept a run of six league games going in which the Darts have alternated between a win and a defeat. It’s that inconsistency the Dartford boss wants to stamp out to make a push for the playoffs.

Respite from league competition followed just three days later with a Kent Senior Cup tie. Drawn against National League side Bromley, Dowson decided to rest players making eleven changes. Mitchell Beeney played his last game for the club after being released. Academy graduates Jayden Boulton and George Whitefield were selected. The Ravens choose to test out their squad by going with a young team.

It was all level at the break, but the Darts turned it on in the second-half to run out 5-1 winners. Charlie Sheringham scored from the spot in only his second start this season. A poor defensive error gifted Bromley an equaliser which Kido Taylor-Hart dispatched. Sheringham assisted Luke Allen to put the hosts ahead soon after the break. A third goal involvement from Sheringham arrived when he finished Alex Wall’s cross. Brandon Barzey wrapped things up with a brace, first taking advantage of a goalkeeping error. Then the winger was on the end of a quick move to net Dartford’s fifth.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Paul Rooney will be available despite a red card against Braintree Town. Dartford appealed against the decision and his suspension has been overturned. Striker Harvey Bradbury picked up a fifth caution in the win over Torquay United. Tommy Block is on the road to recovery after a long term injury.

Former Championship side, Yeovil Town went down last season even though they had a top ten defence. However, scoring goals was an issue and too many draws saw them relegated. In August, the Glovers suffered a surprise opening day loss at Hemel Hempstead Town. To finish off their first month in the National South they were unexpectedly beaten 4-3 at Havant and Waterlooville.

Ending August in seventh, Mark Cooper’s side were about to embark on an incredible winning streak. Draws at home to Chelmsford City and Chippenham Town sandwiched 14 straight victories, ten of those in the league. The Glovers reached the F.A Cup second round in that time taking on Wrexham in front of the television cameras on the weekend. Yeovil Town were unable to extend their record of 21 F.A Cup upsets as a non-league side losing 3-0 to the Welsh club.

Yet it was their last away trip to Kent that ended their unbeaten run before defeat to Wrexham. Travelling across the country to face a struggling Welling United, the Glovers lost 4-1 on the road. On Wednesday night they made a shorter journey to Bath City. A late Morgan Williams goal gave the Glovers their first win in five in all competitions. Victory has opened up a six point lead at the top, Cooper’s team also have a game in hand.

Current League Form

Dartford (DLWLWL)			Yeovil Town (WWWDLW)
Torquay United	H	3-0	Bath City	A	1-0
Braintree Town	H	0-2	Welling United	A	1-4
Worthing	A	4-3	Chippenham Town	A	1-1
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Farnborough	H	4-2
Weston-super-Mare	H	4-2	Dover Athletic	H	2-0
Hemel Hempstead	A	1-2	Torquay United	A	3-1

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 23 / Yeovil Town wins: 30 / Draws: 32

Previous Meetings

Dartford 1 – 2 Yeovil Town (13/01/1990 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 1 – 1 Yeovil Town (23/02/1985 – National League)
Yeovil Town 2 – 2 Dartford (22/12/1984 – National League)
Yeovil Town 0 – 1 Dartford (12/09/1984 – Bob Lord Trophy)
Dartford 1 – 3 Yeovil Town (04/09/1984 – Bob Lord Trophy)
Yeovil Town 1 – 1 Dartford (24/02/1984 – National League)

Statistics

The Darts have lost just one in the last seven home league games against the Glovers (W2, D4).
The last home win against Yeovil Town was in December 1981 when Dartford won 5-0 in the National League.
Dartford have scored in their last 11 league games against the Glovers

On This Day

Dartford have only ever won once on 9 December and that came in 1995. Donning black and white halves, the Darts beat Ramsgate 3-0 at Park View (groundshare with Erith and Belvedere). At the end of the campaign Dartford won promotion after losing one league game. Finishing runners up on goal difference, the Darts returned to the Southern League.

The other 19 fixtures on this day have ended in eight draws and 11 defeats. Although Dartford are unbeaten at home in three on 9 December. Either side of the Ramsgate win, the Darts drew 1-1 with Dunstable Town in 1967 and with Dover Athletic in 2006, Brendon Cass scoring at Princes Park.

Six years ago, Dartford were beaten 1-0 at Hungerford Town. In 2008, Bromley knocked the Darts out of the Kent Senior Cup. Rob Haworth and Cass netting in a 4-2 defeat. Maybe this year the black and white halves will provide Dartford with good luck!

Dartford v Bromley

November 28, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

The Darts begin their Kent Senior Cup campaign on Tuesday night hosting National League side Bromley.

Dartford have won two of the last three editions of the county competition. After defending their title successfully they relinquished the crown last season. Now they will start their quest to reclaim the silverware against the side they beat in the final twelve years ago.

This will be the first meeting between the two sides in the competition since the 2011 final. Tony Burman led the Darts to a 4-1 victory with Elliot Bradbrook opening the scoring in the first-half. After the break Ryan Hayes doubled the advantage. Goalkeeper, Craig Holloway fumbled into his own net for the third. Then Hayes set up Danny Harris to put Dartford out of sight. Bromley’s Warren McBean scored a consolation for the visitors.

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Highlights courtesy of sonytino

The following year Dartford won promotion to the National League where they stayed for three years. Bromley remained in the National South until reaching the top flight of non league in 2015. So paths have rarely crossed with only five meetings since.

Dartford have won five of the last six against Bromley, which has included a National South double, an F.A Trophy win and a F.A Cup victory. Bromley’s only win in that time came in the F.A Cup. Yet it was the very same competition in which they last met nine years ago.

Drawn in the first round, the Darts set up a tie with Bradford City after beating Bromley 4-3 at Hayes Lane. Louis Dennis put the hosts ahead inside a minute before Harris levelled. Then Dartford went in front twice through Hayes and Bradbrook. However, the Ravens equalised on each occasion after Moses Ademola and then Danny Waldren scored. A Tom Bradbrook header nine minutes from time made sure the Darts progressed into round two for the first time in 30 years.

Now it is Bromley who are in the National League and Dartford in the division below. The Darts may have come close to joining their opponents but playoff heartbreak has denied them. This season Alan Dowson’s side have yet to get going, however on the weekend they entered the top ten.

Taking on Torquay United, Dowson made five changes to the side that lost to Braintree Town. The Dartford boss gave George Alexander his debut after joining on loan from Bromley. The striker has scored seven times for the Ravens in 44 appearances. In the National South the 22-year-old has found goalscoring a bit easier. In his loan spells at Welling United and Slough Town he has managed 15 goals in 33 league games. Richard Chin made his first start for the Darts since the playoff semi-final defeat to St Albans City. On loan for a second time from Charlton Athletic he has now made nine appearances for Dartford. Tyrell Miller-Rodney was back in action after recovering from a slight injury. Harvey Bradbury started up front and Jordan Wynter in midfield after the pair finished serving their suspensions.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

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. The new loan signings grabbing the headlines. Chin’s return went perfectly well and he put the hosts in front with a curling shot into the top corner. Alexander scored on debut with a delightful turn and shot. Finally, Moussa Diarra volleyed his side further ahead in a 3-0 win. A first ever victory over Torquay United and a first clean sheet for over a month helped Dartford move up to tenth.

Alexander isn’t the only Dartford player who has played for Bromley. The most notable is Luke Coulson, who made 135 appearances for the Ravens. Part of the F.A Trophy winning side, the winger joined the Darts in the summer of 2022. Paul Rooney, who was sent off against Braintree Town had six games on loan at Hayes Lane. Jordan Wynter made 14 appearances and Alex Wall played 19 times for the Ravens.

Bromley are now in their ninth season in the National League. Under Andy Woodman they won the F.A Trophy in 2021 beating Wrexham. In May, they were defeated in the playoff semi-finals. Before Woodman arrived, the Ravens also lost a F.A Trophy final to Brackley Town in 2018 and had previously reached the playoffs as well.

Progress has continued under Woodman during this campaign. Second in the National League they are 11 points behind leaders Chesterfield, who beat them in the playoffs six months ago. The Ravens gave a good account of themselves in front of the television cameras earlier this month losing 2-0 to League One side Blackpool.

On Saturday, they faced a long journey to the North East to take on Hartlepool United. The visitors got off to a great start when Michael Cheek put the visitors ahead after four minutes. He scored again to record his tenth of the season just before half-time. The Pools halved the deficit before Ben Krauhaus and Olufela Olomola secured a 4-1 victory.

After Dartford’s homecoming in 2006, the Darts have added four Kent Senior Cup triumphs taking them to 13 in total. Six times winners Bromley last won the tournament in 2007.

Current Form (all competitions)

Dartford (WLWLLW)			Bromley (WLDWLW)
Torquay United	H	3-0	Hartlepool United	A	4-1
Braintree Town	H	0-2	Aldershot Town	H	2-3
Maidstone United (FAT)	H	0-1	AFC Fylde	H	1-0
Worthing	A	4-3	Boreham Wood	A	1-1
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Blackpool (FAC)	H	0-2
Weston-super-Mare	H	4-2	Redbridge (LSC)	H	4-2

FAT – F.A Trophy / FAC – F.A Cup / LSC – London Senior Cup

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 25 / Bromley wins: 28 / Draws: 12

Previous Meetings

Bromley 3 – 4 Dartford (08/11/2014 – F.A Cup 1st Round)
Dartford 4 – 2 Bromley (12/01/2013 – F.A Trophy 3rd Round)
Bromley 1 – 2 Dartford (09/04/2012 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 2 Bromley (29/10/2011 – F.A Cup 4th Qualifying Round)
Dartford 3 – 1 Bromley (29/08/2011 – National South)
Dartford 4 – 1 Bromley (02/05/2011 – Kent Senior Cup Final)

Statistics

The head to head in the Kent Senior Cup is all level. The Darts have won 10, lost 10 and drawn 5 against Bromley
Dartford’s only win in the last five against the Ravens in this competition was the cup final in 2011
The Darts have won the last three in the county cup when drawn at home to Bromley
Dartford have lost just one of the last ten in all competitions versus the Ravens (W7, D2)

On This Day

Jacob Berkeley-Agyepong’s brace completed a comeback against Hungerford Town on this day three years ago. Ryan Seager put the Crusaders in the lead. Then two goals 13 second-half minutes from Berkeley-Agyepong earned all three points.

Eight years ago plenty of future Dartford connections and former players were on display. Losing 2-1 in the F.A Trophy at home Whitehawk, the Darts were up against Steve King, Craig Braham-Barrett, Paul Lorraine, Jake Robinson, Danny Mills and Dave Martin. On the substitutes bench that day was also David Ijaha.

The only previous Kent Senior Cup tie played by Dartford on the 28 November was a 5-2 win over Sittingbourne in 1978.

Dartford v Torquay United

November 24, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford will attempt to beat Torquay United for the first time when they meet at Princes Park this weekend.

Saturday will be the fifth time the Darts have taken on the Gulls and they have yet to pick up maximum points. In fact, Jordan Chiedozie’s goal in April 2015 is the only time Dartford have scored against their opponents.

The first meeting 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, Chiedozie equalised from close range.

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Highlights courtesy of sonytino

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 to give the visitors the lead. One became two when Jamie Reid sealed maximum points for the Devonshire club.

By the time the reverse fixture came around, Torquay United were battling for the title with Dowson’s Woking. Gary Johnson’s side were reduced to ten men as early as the 13^th 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 over their opponents.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dartford hosted Braintree Town on Tuesday night off the back of two straight home defeats. The Darts were beaten by late goals against Chelmsford City in the league over a fortnight ago. Then last week Maidstone United scored with almost the final kick of the game to knock Dartford out of the F.A Trophy. However, splitting up those losses, Dowson’s side went to Worthing and won 4-3.

The Dartford boss made three changes to the team that exited the trophy. Lewis Manor was back up front partnering Alex Wall for the first time. Sam Odaudu made his first start in almost a month and Paul Rooney returned to the lineup. The midfielder could be up against one of his former sides this weekend. Rooney had his first taste of non-league football with Torquay United on loan in December 2016. The 26-year-old made six national League appearances with the Devonshire side scoring once.

Rooney picked up his second red card as a Dartford player. Previously sent off in pre-season, the former Gull was dismissed just before half-time against Braintree Town. The Darts have now had five sending offs since the beginning of their National South campaign. Two second half goals by Aaron Blair condemned Dartford to a third consecutive home loss.

Harvey Bradbury and Jordan Wynter were both suspended mid-week, but will be available this weekend. Brandon Barzey will be back from international duty with Montserrat. Tyrell Miller-Rodney was rested on Tuesday after a slight injury. Tommy Block is still in recovery having missed almost two months of action.

Dartford have scored 30 times in the league this term and hope to add to that tally after consecutive blanks. Loan signing George Alexander will be hoping to get off the mark after joining this week. The striker scored against the Darts last season with Welling United and back in September whilst at Slough Town. The 22-year-old moved to Bromley after a youth career with Millwall. In the National South he has scored 15 in 33 appearances during his loan spells with Welling United and Slough Town. Dowson has also brought back Richard Chin from Charlton Athletic on a loan deal. The defender made eight appearances for the Darts last season during his temporary spell at Princes Park.

Torquay United have been here before in the National South. Last time they managed to bounce back to the National League straight away. One of three former Football League sides in the division, they were among the favourites at the start of the campaign. That tag was justifiable nine games into the season when the Gulls were a point behind the leaders in third. Johnson led his team to six wins from seven at one stage, the only blemish a surprise defeat at Aveley.

Since that run Torquay United have slipped down the standings with losses against Hemel Hempstead Town, Maidstone United, Weston-super-Mare and Hampton and Richmond Borough. A convincing 5-1 home victory over Welling United in the middle of those defeats being the bright spark. In November, the Gulls have defeated Bath City, lost against league leaders Yeovil Town and won at basement boys Havant and Waterlooville. In the F.A Trophy they gained revenge over the Glovers with a 2-1 victory.

Current League Form

Dartford (DLWLWL)			Torquay United (WLLWLW)
Braintree Town	H	0-2	Havant & Waterlooville	A	2-0
Worthing	A	4-3	Yeovil Town	H	1-3
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Bath City	H	1-0
Weston-super-Mare	H	4-2	Hampton & Richmond	A	1-3
Hemel Hempstead	A	1-2	Weston-super-Mare	A	2-3
Eastbourne Borough	A	1-1	Welling United	H	5-1

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 0 / Torquay United wins: 2 / Draws: 2

Previous Meetings

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

Dartford have never beaten Torquay United, but have only played four times against the Gulls
The Darts have yet to score at Princes Park against Torquay United
Dartford’s only goal against the Gulls was scored at Plainmoor by Jordan Chiedozie in April 2015
The Darts have lost three in a row at Princes Park for the first time since August/September 2022. Under Dowson they have not been beaten in four consecutive home matches.

On This Day

Lee Noble scored the winner against his former club on this day in 2017. Dartford came from behind to win at Brentwood Town six years ago. The Isthmian Division One North side took the lead and a F.A Trophy upset looked on. Elliot Bradbrook equalised with a looping header with 15 minutes left. Noble sent the Darts into the next round with a long range shot two minutes from time.

At home Dartford are winless in five on this day. Their last victory came in a friendly when they beat Finnish side Grankulla IFC 4-1 in 1977, Geoff Bray scoring a hat-trick. In the seventies it was not unusual for the Darts to take on a foreign side in a friendly. Six years earlier they beat German Division Three side FC Gelsenkirchen 07 by the same score.

One of the few times Dartford have taken on Football League opposition also came on 25 November 1961. The Darts had beaten Exeter City of Division Four in a replay and were handed a tie with Bristol City. Unfortunately, the second round F.A Cup tie finished in an 8-2 defeat to the Division Three club in front of just over 13000 supporters.

Dartford v Braintree Town

November 21, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford hope to get back to winning ways when they host Braintree Town at Princes Park on Tuesday night.

Alan Dowson’s side have been beaten in their last two home games in all competitions. Victory against the Iron will move the Darts ahead of their opponents in the National South. On the road Braintree Town have recorded just one triumph all season. The Iron have lost their last three on their travels in league and cup. Yet both sides are within a win of the playoff places, Dartford are three points adrift, Braintree Town are just one point away.

A break from National South action on Saturday ended in F.A Trophy defeats for the Darts and the Iron. Dartford fell to a last gasp goal to Kent rivals Maidstone United in the second round. Moussa Diarra came the closest for the Darts 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.

Dowson handed keeper Ryan Sandford his debut against his former club. The impressive Archie Wood kept his place in the side with Paul Rooney making way. Brandon Barzey was on international duty, Harvey Bradbury suspended and will miss the Braintree Town game and Tommy Block injured. Joash Nembhard returned from suspension. Ollie Box was named on the bench after his recall from a loan spell at Margate.

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Dartford did manage to claim all three points in their last league game, down at Worthing. Victory mid-week will make it back to back wins in the National South for the first time since the end of September and start of October. A topsy-turvy game in Sussex ended 4-3. A prolific spell at the end of the first-half turned a one goal deficit into a 3-1 lead. The Darts capitalised on poor defending from the hosts as Alex Wall, Luke Coulson and Jordan Wynter found the back of the net. The Rebels fought back to level the game, but Tyrell Miller-Rodney won it for Dowson’s side.

Dartford also scored four last time they played host to Braintree Town. Charlie Sheringham netted from the spot five minutes after the break before Tom Bonner was sent off. Coulson scored a stunning volley and after the Iron pulled a goal back, Samir Carruthers scored a late brace.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The reverse fixture at Cressing Road, where Braintree Town have lost just three times in 33 league games under Angelo Harrop, the Darts picked up a creditable draw. The hosts took the lead in the first-half. Baris Altintop, now with the Darts set up Aaron Blair. Slick football led to the equaliser with Jernade Meade finishing off a neat team goal.

Altintop spent a season with the Iron after he signed for the Essex club from King’s Langley. The defender has since made 18 starts for Dartford this term. Another former Iron in the Darts ranks is Luke Allen. The midfielder spent two campaigns with Braintree Town scoring a playoff goal against Dartford. Allen will make his 105th appearance for the Darts if selected on Tuesday night

If Braintree Town could recreate their home form they would be challenging for the top places in the division. Instead their struggles on the road leave them outside the top seven. Their latest setback was in the F.A Trophy as they were beaten 3-0 by National North side Gloucester City.

The Iron had a slow start to their league campaign winning just once in August. Finishing the opening month two places above the drop zone, they have since climbed the table. A 4-0 win over Worthing provided confidence to begin September. Although the next four were drawn they went on to record back to back victories.

Braintree Town lost their first game in eight when they took on league favourites Yeovil Town. However, the Essex side bounced back at home with two convincing wins. First, Havant and Waterlooville were beaten 4-0, then St Albans City 4-1. Yet another away defeat held the Iron back after losing to Eastbourne Borough just under a fortnight ago.

Prior the F.A Trophy exit on the weekend, Harrop led his team to third consecutive home triumph scoring four times once more. This time it was against Welling United. Shaq Coulthirst, Blair and a Matt Ward brace earned another 4-1 win.

Current League Form

Dartford (WDLWLW)			Braintree Town (WLWWLW)
Worthing	A	4-3	Welling United	H	4-1
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Eastbourne Borough	A	1-3
Weston-super-Mare	H	4-2	St Albans City	H	4-0
Hemel Hempstead	A	1-2	Havant & Waterlooville	H	4-1
Eastbourne Borough	A	1-1	Yeovil Town	A	0-2
Havant & Waterlooville	H	2-0	Hemel Hempstead	A	2-0

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Braintree Town wins: 8 / Draws: 6

Last Six League Meetings

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)
Dartford 2 – 1 Braintree Town (24/08/2019 – National South)

Statistics

The Darts have recorded just two victories in the last 14 matches against Braintree Town (D5, L7)
Dartford’s 4-1 win last November was their biggest victory against the Iron and the first time they scored more than twice in a game versus the Essex club
The Darts are unbeaten in two matches against the Iron (W1, D1), their best streak since four without defeat between 2011 and 2013 (W2, D2)
Only Maidstone United and Chelmsford City (18) have conceded fewer goals than Braintree Town (19) this season
Only Yeovil Town (37) and Bath City (35) have scored more goals than the Iron (31) this season

On This Day

Chris Dickson’s five minute brace early in the second half handed Dartford victory on this day. The Darts hosted Slough Town three years ago and won 2-0. Dickson scored a minute after the interval and moments later doubled the lead. The former Charlton Athletic striker played eight times for the Darts scoring three.

Three years earlier, Dartford were involved in a six goal thriller at home against Wealdstone. Alfie Pavey scored a pair of equalisers as the Darts fell behind twice. Andy Pugh put the hosts ahead for the first time, yet the Stones levelled from the spot with three minutes remaining. In stoppage time Lee Noble was sent off with the match tied at 3-3.

Dartford v Maidstone United

November 17, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Alan Dowson aims to secure a first major cup victory as Dartford boss against Kent rivals Maidstone United this weekend.

The Darts have yet to clear the first hurdle in the F.A Trophy or F.A Cup since Dowson took charge. Although victories have arrived in county competition, Dartford will relish the opportunity to progress in a Kent derby. Maidstone United will be keen to improve on last season’s run to the last eight. The Stones will also hope to repeat their trophy win over the Darts four years ago.

During the Covid hit season, Dartford visited the Gallagher Stadium and fought back twice to force a replay. Former Maidstone United striker Elliott Romain scored both goals after Dan Wishart and Justin Amaluzor put the hosts in front. Back at Princes Park, the Darts were narrowly beaten by an Iffy Allen strike.

In cup competition Dartford have claimed the last two victories. During the same campaign as the F.A Trophy exit, Ky Marsh-Brown scored the winner in the Kent Senior Cup. The Darts went on to lift the county cup for that season almost two years later. In the F.A Cup, Dartford enjoyed a 3-0 away win in October 2021. Noor Husin fired in from long range, Danny Leonard added a second and Ade Azeez put the icing on the cake.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The Stones and former Dart, Jack Barham hit back in the league two months later with a convincing 4-0 win. Barham claimed the match ball with a hat-trick and Michael Phillips added the fourth. Maidstone United’s last visit to Princes Park also ended in triumph, Barham netting the decisive goal.

Dartford have never knocked their rivals out of the F.A Trophy. The previous three attempts ended in defeat. In 1972, the Stones won 1-0 and 15 years later they beat the Darts 5-1. Then there was the replay loss four years ago. This time Dowson’s side have home advantage and with no replay or extra time the result will be settled on the day.

After last weekend’s postponement, Dartford had a week to rest before their trip to Worthing on Tuesday night. Dowson was forced to make two changes with Harvey Bradbury and Joash Nembhard serving a one match ban. The Dartford boss also decided to leave out Lewis Manor. Coming in to the starting eleven were Archie Woods, Luke Allen and Alex Wall. Winger, Brandon Barzey was away on international duty and Tommy Block out injured.

In a topsy-turvy game the Darts came from behind, let a lead slip, but ended up winning 4-3. Worthing went in front when Danny Cashman scored. Then in the space of 15 minutes at the end of the first-half Dartford were 3-1 to the good. Wall capitalised on some poor defending to score his third in four appearances. Captain, Luke Coulson netted from the edge of the box. Jordan Wynter then grabbed a rare goal, his third in his 165th appearance. The hosts fought back with a superb strike from Ricky Aguiar before Ollie Pearce levelled the score. There was one more twist with six minutes to go, Tyrell Miller-Rodney put away the winner.

Wynter could face his former club on the weekend. The versatile defender and midfielder played eight times for the Stones during the 2018/2019. The only other connections between the two sides are both goalkeepers. Mitchell Beeney’s father played in goal for Maidstone United in the late eighties and into the early nineties. New signing Ryan Sandford had a loan spell with the Stones. He could become the fourth keeper used by Dowson this term. The shot stopper arrives after his short term deal ended with AFC Wimbledon.

The Stones are bidding to return to the National League at the first attempt. Relegated last term, the Stones have managed to put unbeaten runs together putting them in playoff contention. A five-game sequence of two wins and three draws followed the opening day triumph over Slough Town and defeat at Bath City. George Elokobi’s side suffered a surprise loss at home to Aveley before picking up another four victories and three draws.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In that time the Stones also progressed to the second round of the F.A Cup. Two months ago, they won 4-1 at Steyning Town of the Southern Combination Premier League. Then three consecutive 2-0 wins have seen the Stones into round two. They faced Southern League Premier South side Winchester City at the end of September, went to Plainmoor and beat Torquay United and a fortnight ago defeated Chesham United. Next up for Maidstone United will be League Two side Barrow.

On Tuesday, Elokobi’s side bounced back from their heavy 5-2 loss against Hampton and Richmond Borough. The Stones won a Kent derby against Dover Athletic. Levi Amantchi netted the decisive goal, his 16th of the season.

Current Form

Dartford (WDLWLW)			Maidstone United (DDWWLW)
Worthing	A	4-3	Dover Athletic	H	1-0
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Hampton & Richmond	A	2-5
Weston-super-Mare	H	4-2	Eastbourne Borough	H	2-0
Hemel Hempstead	A	1-2	Chesham United (FAC)	A	2-0
Eastbourne Borough	A	1-1	Weston-super-Mare	A	1-1
Havant & Waterlooville	H	2-0	Welling United	H	0-0

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 47 / Draws: 19

Last Six Meetings

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)
Maidstone United 0 – 1 Dartford (21/01/2020 – Kent Senior Cup)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (26/11/2019 – F.A Trophy)

Statistics

Dartford have lost their last two against Maidstone United. In their previous 13 they had just lost once (W8, D4)
The Darts have failed to win their last five against the Stones at home (D3*, L2)
This will be the 39^th cup meeting between the two sides with Dartford leading the head to head (W19, D5*, L14)
* – lost one on penalties
Wall could make his 50th Dartford appearance (29 starts, 20 substitute, 21 goals)

On This Day

Lyle Della-Verde scored twice in a 4-1 win over Gloucester City six years ago. The midfielder netted either side of half-time. Warren Mfula opened the scoring and Alfie Pavey added a fourth. The visitors grabbed a consolation late on.

Dartford’s only home defeat on this day was the first time they played on 18 November in 1899. The Darts were beaten 5-0 by Woolwich Arsenal Reserves in the Kent League. Since then, Dartford have gone ten unbeaten on their own patch with six wins and four draws.

One of those draws came in the F.A Cup first round at Watling Street in 1989. The Darts earned a replay against Football League opposition Exeter City. Andy Hessenthaler’s goal in front of over 3000 fans secured a 1-1 draw. Unfortunately, the Darts couldn’t cause an upset in the return fixture.

Author: Stuart Maidment (Page 17 of 35)

Weston-super-Mare v Dartford

Dartford v Welling United

Welling United v Dartford

Dartford v St Albans City

Tonbridge Angels v Dartford

Dartford v Yeovil Town

Dartford v Bromley

Dartford v Torquay United

Dartford v Braintree Town

Dartford v Maidstone United

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