Author: Stuart Maidment (Page 2 of 34)

St Albans City v Dartford

Dartford go in search of their first win of the season when they take on St Albans City on the weekend.

The Darts travel to Clarence Park this Saturday after a loss on the opening day and a draw on Tuesday night. The Saints are also looking for a first victory since relegation to the Isthmian Premier.

High Expectations

Both sides are among the bookies favourites to take the Isthmian Premier title. The Darts and the Saints were sitting just behind Billericay Town in the pre-season odds. Whilst Adrian Pennock’s team are hoping to go one better than last season, St Albans City are aiming for an immediate return to the National South.

Playoff Heartbreak to Isthmian Premier

It wasn’t long ago both sides were vying for a place in the National League via the playoffs. A semi-final meeting at Princes Park was decided in penalty drama with St Albans City holding their nerve. The Saints went on to lose the final, meaning the Darts and the Saints missed out on promotion.

Last time Dartford visited Clarence Park they lost 1-0 with Mitchell Weiss scoring the winner. The Darts were unlucky not to score with Lewis Manor and Harvey Bradbury on two occasions both striking the crossbar.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

St Albans City dished out a heavier defeat in the reverse fixture three months later. The Hertfordshire side scored twice in four second-half minutes through Shaun Jeffers and Michael Clark. A late Harun Hamid goal made the score convincing for the visitors.

The Darts went on to suffer relegation at the end of that season and St Albans City would follow a year later. Although the Saints took survival to the final day last term, they were unable to beat National South champions Truro City to stay up.

A Better Display

After a terrible opening day for the Darts, in which they lost 4-0 at Dulwich Hamlet, Pennock’s side got off the mark with a well earned point against Billericay Town.

The Dartford boss made three changes with Michael Olarewaju not involved. Goalkeeper, Jonny Henly took the captain’s armband for the opening match at Princes Park. Dan Smith, Luther Williams and Jez Pinder started with Ikechi Eze and Eddie Dsane dropping to the bench.

Halfway through the first half Sam Odaudu put in a long throw which Billericay Town failed to clear. The ball fell to Olly Box at the far post who opened his and Dartford’s account for the season in his 50th start for the club. At the break the hosts deserved to be ahead and could have had a bigger lead after missed opportunities.

At half time the Blues made a triple change bringing on three former Darts, Femi Akinwande, Liam Nash and Tyrell Miller-Rodney. Billericay Town put the Darts under pressure for most of the second half. With half an hour to play Nash made a breakthrough for the visitors to level at 1-1. In the end Dartford were left clinging on and their hard work earned their first point of the campaign.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Slow Start for Saints

St Albans City’s 0-0 home draw with Chatham Town was the only game without a goal on the opening weekend of the Isthmian Premier season. Alex Wall featured for the Saints after signing for his 13th different club in March. The former Dartford striker had three spells at Princes Park scoring 23 goals in 74 appearances. Manager, Ian Culverhouse introduced nine new signings last Saturday with a further three debutantes coming off the bench.

On Tuesday night, the Saints gave up the lead twice to lose against newly promoted Brentwood Town. The evening in Essex got off to a good start when Sam Smart nodded the visitors in front. Louie Johnson equalised for the hosts, but St Albans City were back ahead when Zane Banton scored a penalty. Two second half goals from the Blues turned the game around. First, Benas Vaivada netted, then Johnson grabbed his second of the night.

Manager’s view

Pennock was delighted for his team after a difficult opening day. The Dartford manager believes the draw and performance against Billericay Town has set the standard. The Darts boss spoke to Dartford FC TV after the Tuesday night fixture and said: “I loved the game from start to finish. I think, arguably, we could have gone in two or three nil up. We had some really good chances and it was very deserved”.

He commented: “I’m very proud because it wasn’t a good day on Saturday, we were very poor. That was more of us tonight”, he added: “It makes me more angry now because why didn’t we do that Saturday, but that’s gone now and we’ve got to look forward. We showed a lot of character tonight”.

Billericay Town took control in the second-half with a trio of substitutes at half time. Pennock responded to stop the attacking threat posed by the visitors, he explained: “I had to make a change because when they were on top I wanted to get an extra midfield player on and we nullified them in the end”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

St Albans City manager, Ian Culverhouse was disappointed with his side’s performance against newly promoted Brentwood Town. After the loss on Tuesday he told St Albans City FC youtube channel: “I think we were particularly poor, we lost to a side that wanted it more than us. That hurts me to say because we didn’t show enough desire.”

The Saints boss feels his team shouldn’t take anything for granted even though they are now playing in a lower league, he commented: “I expect better. We need to work harder, we’ve no right, no entitlement to anything, you have to earn everything”.

Defeat to Brentwood Town, who were two divisions below St Albans City last season, is an example of how competitive opponents are in the Isthmian Premier. Culverhouse believes his players need to heed the warning, he said: “It’s about the players standing up, we’ve got to smell the coffee now”.

Team News

Ben Frempah is suspended for his red card at Dulwich Hamlet. Dean Nayler is a long term absentee. Sam Okoye and Sammie McLeod have been working on regaining their fitness after being out with injuries.

If Denzelle Olopade and Callum Jones are selected in the starting eleven, the pair will both reach 50 starts for the Darts.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 12 / St Albans City wins: 8 / Draws: 7

Previous Six Meetings

Dartford 0 – 3 St Albans City (23/12/2023 – National South)
St Albans City 1 – 0 Dartford (09/09/2023 – 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 won 5-3 on penalties

Statistics

  • Dartford are winless in their last three matches against St Albans City (D1*, L2) * – lost on penalties
  • The Darts have lost just one of their last four league games at Clarence Park (W2, D1)
  • Dartford have failed to score in their last two matches against St Albans City. The last time they went three in a row without a goal versus the Saints was from April 2016 to March 2017
  • The Darts have gone 17 matches without a clean sheet against the Hertfordshire club stretching back to February 2016 (W6, D3, L8)

On This Day

Dartford last won on 16 August when they beat Eastbourne Borough in the first home match of the 2011/2012 season. Charlie Sheringham and Adam Green scored in a 2-1 victory. Since then the Darts lost 1-0 at Kidderminster Harriers 11 years ago in the National League. In the National South they drew 0-0 at home to Gosport Borough in 2016 and six years later lost 2-1 to Havant and Waterlooville at Princes Park.

The Darts also played their first ever Isthmian Premier match on this day 17 years ago. Tony Burman’s side were given an early lesson losing 3-0 at Hendon not helped by Paul Guest receiving a red card. On the road, Dartford have yet to score on 16 August in four attempts.

Dartford v Billericay Town

Dartford host Isthmian Premier League favourites Billericay Town under the Princes Park lights on Tuesday night.

A mouthwatering contest early in the fixture list pits two of last season’s title challengers against each other. The Darts finished a place and three points behind Ricay in April after a dramatic final day.

Unfinished Business

Dartford and Billericay Town feel they have unfinished business in trying to return to the National South.

The league title went right down to the wire four months ago. The Darts and the Blues led the table between them for 12 weeks heading into the last game. With both sides level with Horsham the Isthmian Premier was still up for grabs. Whilst the Darts lost, Billericay Town won. However, three points wasn’t enough for the Essex side. Horsham climbed to the top for the first time all season, outscoring the Blues by a single goal.

Getting Over the Blues

When Adrian Pennock’s side were beaten 4-0 by Billericay Town ten months ago they could have easily felt sorry for themselves. The Kent side had just lost three league games in a row and slipped down to tenth. Last October, goals from former Dart, Tom Bender, Frankie Merrifield, Moses Emmanuel and Matt Johnson pushed Dartford down to tenth.

The Darts later recovered with a 21 match unbeaten run. So by the time the reverse fixture at Princes Park came around Pennock’s side were the form team.

In one of Dartford’s best performances of last season they returned the favour beating Billericay Town by the same 4-0 scoreline. The result demonstrated how far the rebuilt squad had come.

Olly Box put the hosts ahead after just six minutes and George Whitefield doubled the lead. The Darts added to their tally with goals from former Billericay striker Callum Jones and Eddie Dsane. That afternoon Dartford recorded an eighth consecutive league victory. The run would extend to ten in a row in the weeks that followed.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Opening Day Defeat

The Darts suffered their first and heaviest opening day defeat in six years on the weekend. Former player, Luke Wanadio once againg haunted his old side, this time with a hat-trick.

Pennock handed debuts to Jonny Henly in goal, Sam Smith and Ben Frempah in defence and Ikechi Eze in midfield. Michael Olarewaju started his first game as captain.

Dartford’s campaign got off to a poor start falling behind on 12 minutes and it didn’t get any better. Hamlet led when new signing Lonit Talla scored and five minutes later Wanadio scored his first of the afternoon.

Two minutes into the second half Frempah was sent off on debut. From the resulting free-kick Wanadio caught out Henly. The Hamlet forward added another to his list of goals against Dartford when he made it 4-0, his fifth in four matches against the Darts.

Former Darts Shine

Billericay Town manager, Gary McCann could thank two former Dartford players on the weekend. An opening day 2-1 win over Wingate and Finchley got the Essex club off to a good start.

It took just six minutes for new signing Jack Evans to open his account. Evans had a short spell with the Darts in 2012/2013. Late in the second-half substitute, Tyrell Miller-Rodney scored from the edge of the box. The ex-Dartford midfielder was part of the 2023/2024 squad relegated from the National South. The Blues were unable to hold on to a clean sheet after Ada Okorogheye netted a very late consolation.

Five other Blues were given their first starts for the club. Ryan Scott, Ryan Blackman, Ike Orji, Tyrese Owen and Troy Howard al making their debuts. Whilst former Dartford academy player Jay Porter made the starting lineup. On the bench another pair of ex-Darts were named, Femi Akinwande and Liam Nash. Not included in the squad was Jazzi Barnum-Bobb.

Manager’s view

Pennock is looking forward to Tuesday’s game as it gives his side an opportunity to put things right. The Dartford boss was less than impressed with how the opening day went. He spoke to Dartford FC TV after the defeat and said: “Everything that could go wrong, went wrong. I thought, especially the first half, we just did the opposite of everything we were telling them to do”.

He continued: “As a team we wasn’t good enough. When you go down to ten men just after the second half kicks off it makes it even harder. We showed a lot of character in the last twenty minutes, but it was too late”.

Pennock is determined to put Saturday’s result behind them. He commented: “We’ve got an opportunity to bounce back on Tuesday”, he added: “We’ve got to prepare properly. We’re hurting, but we’ve got to take it on the chin and move on”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In contrast, Blues manager Gary McCann was pleased his side claimed their first win. He told Billericay Town TV: “It wasn’t an easy game on a hot day, on a sticky pitch. I think both teams struggled, it wasn’t the best sepctacle”, he continued: “Of course we want to put on a display, of course we want ot perform to the highest order, but the most important thing is the win and we’ve managed to achieve that”.

Team News

Samir Carruthers and new signing Dan Smith started on the bench against Dulwich Hamlet. The pair have been recovering from pre-season injuries. Carruthers is managing a groin issue, whilst Smith suffered concusion. Sam Okoye
is still waiting to get involved after missing pre-season. Dean Nayler is a long term absentee. Ben Frempah is available until his supension starts on the weekend.

Denzelle Olopade made his 50th appearance for Dartford on Saturday. He will be joined by Jez Pinder and Callum Jones if they feature on Tuesday night. If selected in the starting eleven, Olly Box will make his 50th start for the club.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 8 / Billericay Town wins: 3 / Draws: 1

Previous Six Meetings

Dartford 4 – 0 Billericay Town (25/01/2025 – National South)
Billericay Town 4 – 0 Dartford (08/10/2024 – National South)
Billericay Town 0 – 2 Dartford (15/04/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Billericay Town (04/12/2021 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 0 Billericay Town (12/01/2021 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 2 Billericay Town (14/12/2019 – National South)

Statistics

  • Dartford have won four of their last five games against Billericay Town keeping clean sheets in each victory
  • The Darts are currently on a run of five consecutive home victories against Ricay
  • Both sides set a record winning margin in this fixture last season (4-0)
  • In their first home league games of the season, Dartford were nine unbeaten before last year’s defeat against Potters Bar Town (W5, D4)

On This Day

Dartford have never won on 12 August and have only scored once in the six previous matches on this day. Each of those fixtures have also been away from home.

In the National South, two years ago the Darts lost at Weymouth and four years earlier they were beaten at Chelmsford City. In 2017, Dartford earned a goalless draw against Havant and Waterlooville.

You have to go back 11 years for Dartford’s only goal. It came in the National League when Rory McAuley put the Darts in front at Woking, only for Giuseppe Sole to level in second-half injury time. Thirty years ago, Dartford drew 0-0 on the opening day of the Kent League season at Herne Bay. In 1972 they lost 1-0 in a Southern League Premier opener at Bedford Town.

Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford

Dartford begin their Isthmian Premier campaign with an away trip to Dulwich Hamlet this weekend.

The Darts will be determined to go one better this season after defeat in the playoff final three months ago. A third place finish last time out puts Adrian Pennock’s side among one of the favourites to return to the National South.

Dulwich Hamlet will be the first competitive test for the Darts this term. Extra interest in this fixture not only comes from the fact the two clubs are just 16 miles apart, but Hamlet have a number of former Dartford players within their ranks.

Last Season’s Trilogy

Luke Wanadio is one of those players. The winger was the difference maker when Hamlet knocked the Darts out of the F.A Trophy last season. He has top scored for the London side in the previous two campaigns. Last year Wanadio won the Players and Supporters Player of the Year awards. In his three spells with the Darts he made 99 appearances and scored 18 goals.

Dartford’s last visit to Champion Hill was comfortable in the end. It took until halfway through the first half for the Darts to break the deadlock. Hayden Bullas opened the scoring with a clean strike. Callum Jones doubled the lead before the interval and the striker netted another early in the second half to seal the victory. 

The sides met three times during 2024/2025 and the spoils were shared across those games. At Princes Park, the Isthmian Premier fixture finished 2-2. Jones and Wanadio were on the scoresheet again. Hamlet took the lead through the now departed Ralfi Hand. Olly Box made sure the Darts did enough to save a point.

Pre-Season

Over the last month the Darts have tested themselves against higher league opposition. Although they lost to Football League sides, Charlton Athletic and Gillingham, they did beat Eastbourne Borough and drew with rivals Ebbsfleet United. Dartford also finished level in games against Herne Bay and Faversham Town.

Dulwich Hamlet beat Basingstoke Town in pre-season and former Darts, Wanadio and Jordan Wynter scored. During his time with Dartford, Wynter played 147 games scoring twice. Hamlet also travelled out to Germany to take on Altona 93 and won on penalties. The Londoners did manage to beat Sevenoaks Town as well as Bracknell Town. However, they were also beaten by Farnham Town, Margate and Eastbourne Borough. Another former Dart, Danny Mills netted in the loss against the Sports. The forward scored seven goals in 26 appearances in his spell at Princes Park.

Manager’s view

Adrian Pennock is pleased with this summer’s preparations, but there is nothing like competitive football. He spoke to Dartford FC TV after the Ebbsfleet United draw and said: “Overall, collectively as a squad, everyone has done really well. There has been some really good performances”.

The Dartford boss addded: “It’s a long season, a really long, long season and of course we want to get off to a really good start. But it’s never going to be easy, every game will be difficult. I can’t wait”.

Pennock is relishing the challenges ahead and the visit to Champion Hill, he commented: “We know it’s a very difficult place to go, it’s an away game and then matches are coming thick and fast, which I’m really looking forward to because that’s our bread and butter”.

Hamlet manager, Mark Dacey echoes those comments from the Dartford manager. Dacey spoke to Dulwich Hamlet TV after their win over Bracknell Town and said: “I’m excited because pre-season is great and it’s an opportunity to try different things out, but ultimately win, lose or draw you’re only really looking at performance because you don’t lose sleep over the result”, he added: “The beauty of it now comes from every team that plays competitvely, it means something. Now all of a sudden there is a table to look at”.

The Hamlet boss is confident his side will be up for the season’s opener, he commented: “We’ve got a very hard first game, but we’re not hiding from anybody and we will take the game to Dartford as fully as I’m expecting them to bring it to us”.

Team News

Pennock will hand out some debuts this weekend after signing six new players. Jonny Henly is likely to start in goal having arrived from Folkestone Invicta. In defence new arrivals include Ben Frempah and Sam Smith. Whilst in midfield Ikechi Eze and Sammie McLeod bolster the numbers. Dan Smith suffered concussion against Herne Bay, but should be ready to face his former side. The striker played for Hamlet during the 2022/2023 season.

Academy graduate, Dean Nayler will be a long term absentee. The defender suffered a knee injury versus Eastbourne Borough and needed an operation. Sam Okoye will be building up his fitness having missed all of pre-season. Samir Carruthers limped off in the final friendly with a groin strain.

Dulwich Hamlet’s new man in the dugout, Mark Dacey has overhauled Hamlet’s squad over the summer. Nyren Clunis and Anthony Cook have returned to the club. Amadou Kassarate will know all about Dartford’s Henly and the two Smith’s. All four played for Folkestone Invicta last term.

Toby Bull and Geoffrey Okonkwo have moved up from Sussex. Bull was at Lewes and Okonkwo at Whitehawk. Tom Chambers, Giovanni Palmer and Alfie Payne are also new arrivals. As well as Joseph Adewunmi, Gaspar Mico and Mannie Mensah. After impressing during pre-season Lonit Talla and Sol Baugh complete the new signings.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 7 / Dulwich Hamlet wins: 4 / Draws: 5

Previous Six Meetings

Dulwich Hamlet 0 – 2 Dartford (29/03/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 2 – 2 Dulwich Hamlet (14/12/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 0 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (05/10/2024 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 3 – 0 Dulwich Hamlet (01/04/2023 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 2 Dartford (08/10/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (08/01/2022 – National South)

Statistics

  • Dartford are unbeaten in eight league games against Dulwich Hamlet (W5, D3)
  • The Darts have won the last three league games at Champion Hill and are unbeaten in the last four
  • Dartford are unbeaten in their last five opening day fixtures (W4, D1)
  • The Darts only opening day defeat in the last nine was in 2019 (W5, D3)
  • When opening the season on the road, Dartford have won their last three

On This Day

Dartford have only started their season twice on this day both against Welsh clubs. The Darts beat Merthyr Tydfil 1-0 in 1969 to begin the Southern League campaign. In 2014, Dartford lost 2-1 at home against Wrexham with Tom Bradbrook scoring for the hosts. The only other fixture on this day was an Eastern Floodlit Cup semi-final. The Darts drew 0-0 with Hastings United before winning the second leg 2-1 on the way to winning the competition.

Season Preview 2025/2026

Wingate and Finchley

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

2024/2025 Season
Isthmian Premier: 11th
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 3rd Qualifying Round
County Cup: 3rd Round
League Cup: 3rd Round
Top League Scorer: Ogo Obi (23 goals)

At one stage Wingate and Finchley were aiming for a playoff place. The Blues were second in the table thanks to a run of one defeat in ten between September and November. However, that challenge was short lived as they gained a single point from their next nine games. Wingate and Finchley returned to earlier form from late January. Chichester City were the only side to beat the Blues from then to late March. An inconsistent final six matches left the North London side mid-table.

Manager – Ahmet Rifat

A long serving former Wingate and Finchley player, Ahmet Rifat come through the academy at Reading as a midfielder. At the age of 33 he broke the record for most Wingate and Finchley appearances when he reached 460 games. After hanging up his boots, Rifat turned manager in October 2022. A couple of seasons ago he guided the club to their first playoff campaign in 13 years.

Summer Transfers

The Blues bided their time when it came to gransfers this summer. The first arrival was announced towards the end of July. Mackye Townsend-West and Johnny Allotey arrive from Ware. Kyron Horsley-McKay remains in the Isthmian Premier having played for Carshalton Athletic. Helping Uxbridge to promotion last season, Ada Okorogheye will be hoping to lead the front line. Coming from Royston Town, Demaray Anyadike is another addition. Alkeo Bani returns to the Blues from Hendon. So does Sam Cornish, who was with Welling United last term.

Alfie Cutbush is a Blue having joined from Heybridge Swifts. Former Dartford loanee, Adam Lovatt will bring experience to the midfield from Hastings United. Lovatt played for the Darts five times in 2022. Caoilan McGettigan and Isaac Stones were at Hadley last season. The pair team up again hoping to add more firepower to the Blues.

Ben Frempah had two seasons with Wingate and Finchley, made 91 appearances and scored seven goals. The defender is on his way to Princes Park to work under Ady Pennock at Dartford. Arthur Iontton also leaves and joins Cheshunt. Bobby Webb is now at Potters Bar Town. Top scorer, Ogo Obi moved to Farnham Town. Daniel Emovan, Jaiden Drakes-Thomas, Zack Newton and Toby Byron have also departed.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Wingate and Finchley wins: 3 / Draws: 2

Previous Six Meetings

Wingate and Finchley 1 – 2 Dartford (18/01/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 2 – 2 Wingate and Finchley (19/10/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 1 – 0 Wingate and Finchley (26/04/2008 – Isthmian Division One North)
Wingate and Finchley 0 – 2 Dartford (03/11/2007 – Isthmian Division One North)
Wingate and Finchley 3 – 2 Dartford (18/03/2006 – Southern League Div 1 East)
Dartford 2 – 1 Wingate and Finchley (17/12/2005 – Southern League Div 1 East)

Next Meetings

Wingate and Finchley v Dartford – Saturday 8th November 2025
Dartford v Wingate and Finchley – Saturday 7th March 2026

Statistics

  • Dartford have won four of their last six games against Wingate and Finchley (L2)
  • The Darts have lost just one at home against the Blues (W2, D1)
  • Dartford have won the last two at Wingate and Finchley

Match Highlights – 2024/2025

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Season Preview 2025/2026

Whitehawk

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

2024/2025 Season
Isthmian Premier: 16th
F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 3rd Qualifying Round
County Cup: Quarter-Final
Top League Scorer: Harry Bridle (10 goals)

A mediocre first seven games had the Hawks in tenth place, but then a dreadful run saw the Hawks dive. They picked up just two points from the next 30 available and went six league games without a game. In fact, during that spell the Hawks scored just once. Then Shaun Saunders was back. The club went on a run of one defeat in ten and that was against an in-form Dartford. It was enough to keep relegation at bay. In the end Whitehawk didn’t look threatened by the drop, despite losing four of their last five heading into the final day.

Manager – Shaun Saunders

Just over a year ago Shuan Saunders left Whitehawk for personal and family reasons. Six months after his departure he returned to the Hawks after Ross McNeilly left last season. Saunders has enjoyed plenty of success starting with honours won with Peacehaven and Telscombe. He won the club’s eighth County League title in 2013 and then a year later the Isthmian Division One South and Sussex Senior Cup in a record-breaking season. In 2016 Saunders won promotion with Haywards Heath Town at the first attempt to reach the Southern Combination Premier, where they finished second the following season after a vital points deduction. Under Saunders, the Blues went on to win the Premier Division title in 2018 to reach the Isthmian Division One South East. At Whitehawk he won the 2023 playoff final to return the Hawks back to the Isthmian Premier, before stepping down.

Summer Transfers

The Hawks are getting a band back together with familiar faces returning to the Enclosed Ground. After a successful playoff win with Burgess Hill Town, Nathan Cooper is back at Whitehawk. The defender played 44 times in the Hawks promotion season in 2022/2023. Joel Daly won the Isthmian Premierlast season at Horsham. He is another returnee after previously graduating through Whitehawk’s academy. Another player from the youth system, Alfie Rogers has returned after a spell with Newhaven where he netted 57 goals in two seasons. Charlie Harris, also played at the Enclosed Ground scoring the playoff winner in May 2023. The midfielder signs from East Grinstead Town. 

Former Dartford goalkeeper, Bailey Vose is now a Hawk. The shot stopper had two spells at Princes Park and made 32 appearances for the Darts. Jack Meeres arrives from Lewes.  Iffy Allen was due to drop down a division anyway with St Albans City, but instead he will be a Hawk. Rob O’Toole has committed to another season and has been named club captain.

Geoffrey Okonkwo and Hawks Player of the Season, Mannie Mensah moved to Dulwich Hamlet. Jordan Maguire-Drew makes the short journey to Lewes and so does Billie Clark.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 7 / Whitehawk wins: 3 / Draws: 0

Previous Six Meetings

Whitehawk 0 – 1 Dartford (12/04/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 4 – 1 Whitehawk (04/01/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 1 Whitehawk (27/01/2018 – National South)
Whitehawk 0 – 4 Dartford (05/09/2017 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 1 Whitehawk (04/02/2017 – National South)
Whitehawk 1 – 0 Dartford (10/08/2016 – National South)

Next Meetings

Whitehawk v Dartford – Tuesday 9th September 2025
Dartford v Whitehawk – Tuesday 14th October2025

Statistics

  • Dartford have won their last five games against Whitehawk
  • The Darts have won their last three home games against the Hawks
  • Dartford have won three out of four at Whitehawk (L1)

Match Highlights 2024/2025

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Season Preview 2025/2026

Welling United

A regular in the National League during the mid-eighties and through the nineties, Welling United have flitted between the top two tiers of non-league. A year after losing the National South playoff final in 2012 the Wings went on to win the league. Lasting three campaigns in the National League, Welling United were relegated. In the following nine National South campaigns the Wings reached the playoffs once. Predominately they have recorded lower half finishes including last season’s showing.

2024/2025 Season
National South: 22nd
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 2nd Round
Kent Senior Cup: Winners
London Senior Cup: Quarter-Final
Top League Scorer: Gene Kennedy (8 goals)

Last season was going okay pre-Christmas with Welling United nine points clear of the relegation places. From February the Kent side went ten games without a win and that put them under serious pressure. An impressive win at home to Worthing gave the Wings hope. However they collapsed in the final run losing four of their last six and drawing twice. Those defeats saw Welling United concede 18 goals as they ended up with the worst defence in the division.

Manager – Lee Martin

Lee Martin’s playing career started in the academy at Manchester United and he made three senior appearances. Loan spells included Royal Antwerp, Glasgow Rangers, Stoke City, Plymouth Argyle, Sheffield United and Nottingham Forest. He later moved to Ipswich Town where he played over 100 games over a four year period. Martin also had another loan spell with Charlton Athletic. Before non-league football he played at Millwall, Northampton Town, Gillingham and Exeter City. In non-league Martin represented Ebbsfleet United, Dover Athletic, Ashford United and Ramsgate, where he won the Isthmian South East title.

Summer Transfers

Lee Martin has been busy this summer to mould his squad together. In goal the Wings will have Slav Huk, Burgess Hill Town’s Supporters Player of the Year last season. Former Dart academy winger, John Ufuah comes in from Chatham Town. Ufuah racked up 27 goal involvements last term. The first of the summer signings was 31-year-old Jack Paxman. His experience has earned him the captain’s armband.

Reuniting with Martin from Ebbsfleet United is Greg Cundle. The 28-year-old was on loan at Maidstone United last term. Brothers, Tom Leahy and Jack Leahy will team up on the same side this season. Tom is a 21-year-old forward from Millwall who spent time with Woking and Maidstone United last season. Jack is a year older coming from Cray Wanderers. Luke O’Neill will provide experience to the squad having played for various Football League sides.

Henry Sinai helped Sittingbourne to the F.A Trophy quarter final last season and has joined the Wings. Lekan Majoyegbe picked up end of season awards at Sheppey United and made his move to Welling United. Attacking midfielder James Dyer scored 47 times in 97 games at Erith Town, he gets a chance at a higher level. Lee Lewis joins from Merstham. Sao Tome and Principe international, Gil Carvalho is another arrival from Sittingbourne. Former Exeter City academy graduate, Scott Simmons joins after a stint with Whitehawk.

Improving defensive options, Dan Vaughan makes the step up having played for Glebe last season. German left back, Eric Wilhelm comes in from Broadbridge Heath. The 21-year-old started out in the third tier of German football with TSV Havelse. Also moving to Park View Road is Keegan Bloom, who won the Player of the Year award at Harrow Borough. New signing, Ruben Shakpoke is another Maidstone United connection, the striker started last campaign at Enfield Town.

Following successful trials, Freddie Norman signs from Leyton Orient, Aaron Williams-Bushell from Dulwich Hamlet and Hamilton Antonio from Northwood. Logan Dobbs has agreed a loan deal until January from Gillingham. George Penn and George Evans also arrive on loan from Bromley.

Harvey Walker was due to play in the Isthmian Premier anyway after relegation last term. The forward has decided to sign for Chatham Town. Defender, Jack Burchell heads to Sussex to play for Lewes. Anthony Grant joins newly promoted Ramsgate.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 26 / Welling United wins: 11 / Draws: 13

Previous Six Meetings

Dartford 1 – 1 Welling United (30/12/2023 – National South)
Welling United 0 – 1 Dartford (26/12/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 3 Welling United (16/09/2023 – F.A Cup)
Welling United 2 – 2 Dartford (04/02/2023 – National South)
Dartford 5 – 1 Welling United (01/11/2022 – National South)
Welling United 2 – 2 Dartford (26/04/2022 – Kent Senior Cup)*
* – Welling United won 5-3 on penalties

Next Meetings

Dartford v Welling United – Saturday 1st November 2025
Welling United v Dartford – Saturday 28th February 2026

Statistics

  • Dartford are unbeaten in ten league games against Welling United (W7, D3)
  • In the league, the Darts are unbeaten in nine home games (W7, D2) and have only lost one at home (W10, D3) versus the Wings
  • On the road, Dartford are unbeaten in four in the league (W3, D1) and have lost just one of the last ten league matches against Welling United (W4, D5)

Match Highlights 2023/2024

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Season Preview 2025/2026

St Albans City

It’s been just over a decade since St Albans City were last in the Isthmian Premier League. Then they stayed in the division for three years before returning to the National South. The Saints were relegated last term, just two years on from their playoff final defeat. Had they won the final it would have seen St Albans City in the National League for only their second ever season. The Hertfordshire club have 18 county cups and last won an Isthmian League title way back in the twenties.

2024/2025 Season
National South: 21st
F.A Cup: 3rd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 2nd Round
County Cup: Quarter-Final
Top League Scorer: Ken Charles (9goals)

St Albans City managed to take survival in the National South to the final day. Unfortunately they were playing one of six teams aiming for the title, the eventual champions Truro City. As Salisbury City picked up a point, the Saints were beaten and that point was the difference. One point in the opening seven fixtures put the Herfordshire club on the back foot. The Saints finall managed a win on matchday 11. Just two wins on the road and a division high 18 draws counted against St Albans City as they dropped out of the National South.

Manager – Ian Culverhouse

Part of Tottenham Hotspur’s UEFA Cup winning squad in 1984, Ian Culverhouse is more synonymous with Norwich City. The Canaries won the old second division and challenged the top flight’s elite when the defender was there. Culverhouse was part of the Norwich City team that famously knocked out German giants Bayern Munich in the 1993/1994 UEFA Cup.

His non-league management career started in 2017. He led King’s Lynn Town to a runner up place in the Southern Premier before losing the playoff final. Culverhouse switched to Grantham for a short period but returned to the Linnets. In his second spell he took King’s Lynn Town to the National North through two playoff victories. In the following season the Linnets were promoted again by virtue of the best points per game record. After time at Kettering Town, he won another playoff promotion with Boston United. In November he was appointed the new St Albans City boss.

Summer Transfers

Former Dartford striker, Alex Wall has been around the block and is now with the Saints. Wall had three spells with the Darts in the past scoring 23 goals in 74 appearances in total. Longest serving player, Zane Banton is giving it another season at St Albans City. Banton joined on loan from Luton Town in March 2017 and has made 312 appearances for the Saints, scoring 62 goals over nine seasons. Winner of Northwood’s Supporters and Player of the Year, Troy Perez-Duah moves to the Saints. The midfielder netted 13 goals in 27 games for Northwood last season. Another new addition is Ryley Scott from Dulwich Hamlet.

Experienced former Stevenage centre back, Michael Bostwick reunites with Culverhouse, who was his manager at Boston United. He also played for Peterborough United, Lincoln City and Burton Albion in the Football League. Another player to work with the Saints boss again is Samuel Smart, who spent last season at Farnborough and Matlock Town. George Sippetts swept up some annual awards last term. The forward joins from Hayes and Yeading United where he scored 14 goals. He also netted another six for Colney Heath. The relegation of Bognor Regis Town means Jasper Mather gets another shot at the Isthmian Premier with the Saints this time. Haziz Kone is a new arrival from Aylesbury United. 

Leo Sery finished last season at Hendon and after relegation from the Isthmian Premier the striker is now a Saint. Montserrat international, Alex Dyer brings plenty of experience to St Albans City. A couple of injuries at Carlisle United and Oldham Athletic resulted in limited games for new signing Magnus Norman. The goalkeeper signs from Dorking Wanderers in search of more time on the field.

More experience comes through the door via Jamal Fyfield who drops to the Isthmian Premier. Lewis Page also has higher league pedigree having played for Cambridge United, Coventry City and Charlton Athletic.

Goalscorer, Shaun Jeffers leaves the Saints after 117 goals in 218 games for the club. Goalkeeper, Michael Johnson departs after five years and 171 appearances. Also leaving the Saints are Iffy Allen who has joined Whitehawk, Josh Castiglione, Alfie Payne is now at Dulwich Hamlet. Tafari Moore, Brandon Mason, Gio Rasulo and David Longe-King have also departed.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 12 / St Albans City wins: 8 / Draws: 7

Previous Matches

Dartford 0 – 3 St Albans City (23/12/2023 – National South)
St Albans City 1 – 0 Dartford (09/09/2023 – 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 won 5-3 on penalties

Next Meetings

St Albans City v Dartford – Saturday 16th August 2025
Dartford v St Albans City – Saturday 20th December 2025

Statistics

  • Dartford are winless in theior last three matches against St Albans City (D1*, L2) * – lost on penalties
  • The Darts have won two of the last three league games at home versus the Saints (L1)
  • Dartford have lost just one of their last four league games at Clarence Park (W2, D1)

Match Highlights – 2023/2024

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Season Preview 2025/2026

Ramsgate

Isthmian Division One South East champions Ramsgate had been getting closer and closer to promotion and finally got over the line. The Rams were twice runners up only to lose two playoff semi-finals in the two campaigns before last season’s triumph. The Kent side return to the Isthmian Premier for the first time since 2008/2009 and claimed their first league title in 19 years, when they went back-to-back as Kent League, then Isthmian Division One champions. It will be some feat if the Rams were to achieve successive titles again.

2024/2025 Season
Isthmian South East: 1st
F.A Cup: 3rd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 3rd Qualifying Round
County Cup: 1st Round
League Cup: 2nd Round
Top League Scorer: Joe Taylor (40 goals)

Worthy champions with 109 points, the most goals, the biggest goal and an almost unbeaten home record. The Rams won their opening eight league matches and were finally beaten on matchday 18. In that time the Kent club had just dropped two points. Another 14 without defeat and Ramsgate were well on their way, they just needed to shake off Sittingbourne. The consistency was incredible, so much so that even their closest rival passed a century of point and goals. The Rams scored four or more goals in 18 league games. The only minor blip was the one home defeat, their last home game of the season against rivals Margate.

Manager – Ben Smith

The Isthmian Division One South East winning manager, Ben Smith was originally the Rams boss two years ago. He lasted 12 months before leaving by mutual consent, but when Tony Russell quit after just 25 days, Smith was put back in charge.

Previously he had success at Canterbury City, where he was a former player and youth team boss. He guided them to the F.A Vase semi-final in 2019. At the end of that season, Smith was controversially sacked with a game to go. Canterbury City’s loss was Herne Bay’s gain. He led the Bay to the 2022 Isthmian Division One playoff final and won. Back at Ramsgate he achieved the club’s record points haul last term and helped the Rams reach the F.A Cup second round for the first time ever.

Summer Transfers

The Isthmian South East champions were competing with three of their new signings last term. Full back, Donvieve Jones, striker Mitch May and forward Ryan Kingsford were part of the Sittingbourne side that pushed the Rams all the way. The trio make their switch to Ramsgate to test themselves in the Isthmian Premier.

With goalkeeper Tom Hadler facing a period on the sidelines through injury, the Rams have brought in Aidan Prall from Sheppey United. Former, Maidstone United defender Raphe Brown left the Stones after five years and will bring his experience to Ben Smith’s team. TJ Jadama will become the new captain after signing a new contract. Relegated to the Isthmian Premier with Welling United last season, Anthony Grant joins a team going in the other direction. The midfielder has over 500 Football League appearances to his name and six caps for Jamaica. Jerome Binnom-Williams was captain at Dulwich Hamlet last season. The former Maidstone United man also has plenty of Football League experience. Harry Webster has agreed a loan deal from Gillingham.

All time top scorer for the club, Joe Taylor scored 103 goals in two seasons for the Rams and he joined Hornchurch this summer. Lee Martin takes his first managerial role at Welling United and Joe Ellul has signed for Ashford United.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 12 / Ramsgate wins: 7 / Draws: 3

Previous Six Meetings

Ramsgate 0 – 3 Dartford (05/04/2011 – Kent Senior Cup)
Ramsgate 2 – 2 Dartford (10/11/2009 – Isthmian League Cup)*
Dartford 4 – 0 Ramsgate (18/04/2009 – Isthmian Premier)
Ramsgate 0 – 1 Dartford (30/12/2008 – Isthmian Premier)
Ramsgate 2 – 1 Dartford (31/02/2006 – Kent Senior Cup)
Ramsgate 2 – 1 Dartford (21/08/1999 – F.A Cup)
* Dartford won 5-4 on penalties

Next Meetings

Ramsgate v Dartford – Monday 25th August 2025
Dartford v Ramsgate – Saturday 3rd January 2026

Statistics

  • Dartford are unbeaten in their last four matches against Ramsgate (W3, D1)
  • The Darts have never lost a home game against the Rams (W7, D2)
  • Dartford are unbeaten in three away matches versus Ramsgate (W2, D1)

Match Highlights 2008/2009

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Match Highlights courtesy of sonytino

Season Preview 2025/2026

Potters Bar Town

Runners up of the Isthmian Division One North in 2018 earned Potters Bar Town promotion to the Isthmian Premier for the first time. A year earlier the Scholars switched from the Southern League to begin a second spell in the Isthmian. The Herfordshire club have spent five full campaigns in the Premier finishing between thirteenth and sixteenth in each season.

2024/2025 Season
Isthmian Premier: 14th
F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 1st Round
County Cup: Runners Up
League Cup: 3rd Round
Top League Scorer: Brandon Adams and Steve Cawley (12 goals)

The season couldn’t have got off to a worse start for Potters Bar Town. At first the Scholars played their home games at King’s Langley until the new 3G pitch was laid. Their first outing there ended in an 8-0 thrashing to Dover Athletic. Yet the Hertfordshire club bounced back beating Dartford and winning five of their next seven. The rest of the campaign was inconsistent. They suffered some heavy losses to Horsham and Hashtag United. They also handed out some beatings, putting five past Lewes and Hendon.

Manager – Max Mitchell

Last season was Max Mitchell’s second full campaign in charge at Potters Bar Town. He joined the club in December 2022 on an interim basis from Welwyn City Garden. After a successful spell with the Citizens his position was made permanent in April 2023. Mitchell previously managed Walthamstow and St Margaretsbury in the Essex Senior League. He also had a spell in the Southern League with Hertford Town.

Summer Transfers

It took until the early part of July for the Scholars to announce their first summer signing. Then more followed well into pre-season. The first of the new arrivals were Ryan Doherty and Jack Berman from Biggleswade Town. Berman will have competition in goal with the returning Fred Burbidge, who sigend from Ware. On dual registration last term, Dylan Adjei-Hersey is now a Scholar having been at Enfield Town. Reece Beckles-Richards has taken the same route as Adjei-Hersey.

Mitchell has look towards Cheshunt for a trio of new signings. An award winner with the Ambers a couple of season’s ago, Nathaniel Orafu moves to Potters Bar Town. Fin Titchmarsh won Player of the Year for the Scholars in 2022/2023 and returns. Jack Munns is the third former Cheshunt player to sign.

Scorer of 77 goals for the Scholars, Josh Hutchinson is another to return and is fourth on the club’s all-time scoring list. In defence Bobby Webb signs from Wingate and Finchley. Winger, Lindell Stewart scored ten goals last term for Dover Athletic and Tilbury and is now a Scholar. Isaac Pedro comes in from one of Mitchell’s former clubs Hertford Town. Young striker, Reiss Webber joins from Wormley Rovers. Coming through the club’s summer talent identification camp, Richesse Mvioki impressed and used to play for Chipstead and Fisher. Matas Skarna has three Lithuania under 17 caps and arrives from Grays Athletic.

One Supporter Player of the Year is staying, and the other is going. At 41-years-old, Ronnie Henry remains with the Scholars this season. Meanwhile, Prosper Keto who shared the award is departing the club for Cray Wanderers. Players’ Player of the Year, Joe Re will remain a Scholar as will Young Player of the Season, Harry Brant. Joint top scorer, Brandon Adams has also committed to the club. Former assistant manager, Leigh Rose has stepped down from his role to aid his recovery from injury. Rose is intending to make a recovery and return to the first team squad. Defender, Rickie Hayles has retired after two seasons with the club.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 2 / Potters Bar Town wins: 2 / Draws: 2

Previous Meetings

Potters Bar Town 1 – 1 Dartford (05/11/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 0 – 1 Potters Bar Town (13/08/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Potters Bar Town 2 – 2 Dartford (05/04/2008 – Isthmian Division One North)
Dartford 4 – 0 Potters Bar Town (27/10/2007 – Isthmian Division One North)
Dartford 1 – 2 Potters Bar Town (11/03/2006 – Southern League Div One East)
Potters Bar Town 1 – 4 Dartford (08/10/2005 – Southern League Div One East)

Next Meetings

Dartford v Potters Bar Town – Saturday 18th October 2025
Potters Bar Town v Dartford – Saturday 14th February 2026

Statistics

  • Dartford are winless in three games against Potters Bar Town (D2, L1)
  • The Darts hae won one of the three home games versus the Scholars (L2)
  • Dartford are unbeaten in their three visits to Potters Bar Town (W1, D2)

Match Highlights 2024/2025

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dartford v Ebbsfleet United

The Darts play their final pre-season friendly at Princes Park this weekend against local rivals Ebbsfleet United.

Adrian Pennock has already watched his squad take on higher league opposition losing to Charlton Athletic and Gillingham, but beating Eastbourne Borough. The Darts boss has also prepared his side with further matches versus Herne Bay and Faversham Town picking up draws in both away games.

Ebbsfleet United are preparing for life back in the National South and have so far picked up wins against a West Ham United under 21 side and Gillingham. The Fleet drew with Aveley and King’s Lynn Town and have been beaten by Punjab United and Leyton Orient. On Wednesday they visited St Albans City and were beaten by the Hertfordshire side.

Suprisingly, since Princes Park opened this will be just the third friendly between the two rivals. On both previous occasions the match has ended in a 1-1 draw in 2013, then six years later. In competitive action there has been plenty of history in with this fixture being played over 150 times.

In recent times Dartford enjoyed a festive double over the Fleet winning 4-1 at Stonebridge Road on Boxing Day in 2022. The Darts began the following year even better with an impressive 4-0 triumph at Princes Park. Although Dartford claimed the local bragging rights, Ebbsfleet United went on to win the National South title. Since then both sides have suffered relegation, Dartford the following season and Ebbsfleet United almost four months.

The Darts begin their Isthmian Premier campaign next weekend away at Dulwich Hamlet. On the same day, Ebbsfleet United start their National South season at fellow relegated side Dagenham and Redbridge.

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