Category: Match Preview (Page 20 of 26)

Chippenham Town v Dartford

September 2, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford can make it back-to-back away wins when they go west again to face Chippenham Town this weekend in the National South.

The Darts have already beaten Bath City and lost to Taunton Town on their travels and now face the side that beat them in last season’s playoff eliminator. Chippenham Town took until the Bank Holiday weekend to score their first goal and have five points from as many games.

After a third consecutive 2-1 defeat on the weekend, at the hands of Worthing, the Darts bounced back on Monday with a 2-0 victory over Hemel Hempstead Town, the only time Dartford haven’t travelled over to the west side of the country for an away game this term. Dowson made two changes to the side that threw away a goal lead at home to Worthing, opting to bring Jordan Wynter and Keiran Murtagh back into the starting eleven.

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Highlights – Hemel Hempstead Town v Dartford (29/08/2022) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Samir Carruthers has been an important player in midfield for the Darts this season and he scored twice against his previous club. Former Dartford goalkeeper, Craig King couldn’t stop the midfielder’s second-half double as the Darts picked up their third victory of the campaign. Early in the second-half, Carruthers delicately curled the ball into the top corner from just inside the box. Another followed, this time the 29-year-old scored directly from a free-kick bending the ball over the wall and in.

Speaking to Dartford FC TV after Monday’s game, Carruthers is confident in the side’s ability, he commented: “As long as we kept in the game in the first half, we knew our quality would come out in the second-half”, he continued: “We just need to have a bit more belief in ourselves. When we believe in ourselves and play football in the right way, defend, and work hard together we’re a good side. It will be difficult for a lot of teams to stop us”.

In both Bank Holiday weekend fixtures goalkeeper, Dan Wilks, Davide Rodari and Charlie Sheringham, who is yet to feature since his injury in pre-season have been sidelined. Dowson is confident Rodari and Sheringham could be ready as well as Alex Wall, who only played in the Worthing defeat. Sam Odaudu will be out for a couple of weeks; the midfielder is due an operation on his mouth.

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Interview – Alan Dowson’s thoughts on the win at Hemel Hempstead Town – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Last season’s meetings provided 12 goals in the league before the 0-0 playoff tie, which ended in Chippenham Town winning on penalties at Princes Park. A Hardenhuish Park last time out, the Bluebirds ran out 4-2 winners. On loan Jordan Greenidge scored his first league goal for the Darts, but Jordan Young equalised. Just before the interval Kieran Murtagh received a second yellow card and was sent off. Young, then Alefe Santos D’Abadia stretched the hosts lead and whilst Ade Azeez gave Dartford hope, Joe Hanks sealed a home win for the Wiltshire side.

The reverse fixture at Princes Park earlier in the campaign saw the two sides shared the points in an entertaining 3-3 draw. Dan Griffiths put Chippenham Town in front, but his goal was cancelled out by Azeez and then Noor Husin added a second. Ricky Aguiar equalised for the Bluebirds, and it stayed level until Azeez looked like he’d won the match for the Darts, but in the final minute Luke Russe scored the leveller.

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Highlights – Chippenham Town v Dartford (12/03/2022) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Chippenham Town started the season against the side who ended their last campaign. After beating the Darts in the playoff eliminator, the Bluebirds lost to Ebbsfleet United after extra time in May. Fast forward three months and they returned to Stonebridge Road and lost 3-0 in their opening game of the 2022/2023 season. After a couple of postponements, the Bluebirds waited a fortnight for their next game which ended 0-0 at Isthmian Premier League champions Worthing. A consecutive goalless draw in the rescheduled home game against Chelmsford City followed meaning Gary Horgan’s side had failed to score in a third match in a row.

Finally, the Bluebirds found the back of the net after 347 minutes without a goal. Russe’s winner in the 77^th minute was enough to earn victory against Hungerford Town as Chippenham Town kept another home clean sheet. Back on the road on Monday, Chippenham Town were beaten 3-1 by Southern Premier South champions Taunton Town. This time Russe scored in his own net to give the Peacocks an advantage. Chippenham Town’s Caine Bradbury was introduced at half-time and after five minutes he made an impact with an equaliser. Parity didn’t last long because two minutes later, Taunton Town scored again through Jake Wannell, then Ollie Chamberlain put the game out of Chippenham Town’s reach.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Chippenham Town wins: 2 / Draws: 4

Current League Form

Dartford (WWLLLW)			Chippenham Town (LDDWL)
Hemel Hempstead Town	A	2-0	Taunton Town	A	1-3
Worthing	H	1-2	Hungerford Town	H	1-0
Taunton Town	A	1-2	Chelmsford City	H	0-0
Havant and Waterlooville	H	1-2	Worthing	A	0-0
Cheshunt	H	2-1	Ebbsfleet United	A	0-3
Bath City	A	2-0

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 0 – 0 Chippenham Town (12/05/2022 – National South Playoff)*
Chippenham Town 4 – 2 Dartford (12/03/2022 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 3 Chippenham Town (06/11/2021 – National South)
Chippenham Town 1 – 2 Dartford (27/10/2020 – National South)
Chippenham Town 1 – 5 Dartford (01/02/2020 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Chippenham Town (26/10/2019 – National South)
* – Chippenham Town won 3-2 on penalties

Statistics

The Darts have gone three games without victory against Chippenham Town
Dartford were unbeaten in their first four visits to Hardenhuish Park (W3, D1), but lost away from home for the first time against the Bluebirds in their last trip there last season

On This Day

Adam Flanagan and Jamie Coyle suffered defeat in their last game in charge with the Darts three years ago. Dartford went to Tonbridge Angels and lost 3-2 despite equalising twice in the game. Josh Hill and Charlie Sheringham scored for the Darts, but two goals from Joe Turner and another by Tom Derry gave the Angels victory. The last league win on this day came in 1997 when Dartford beat Baldock Town 3-1 in the Southern League South. Since then the Darts have lost 3-1 to Boreham Wood in 2005, were beaten 3-2 at Basingstoke Town in 2011 and drew 0-0 with Maidenhead United in 2016. It’s not been a good day to travel for the Darts as they have won one (Wealdstone 2-0 in 1977), drawn one and lost eight of their away games on 3 September.

Hemel Hempstead Town v Dartford

August 28, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

The Darts will need to pick up some points at Hemel Hempstead Town on Bank Holiday Monday to end their barren spell in the National South.

Dartford’s run of defeats continued on Saturday as they conceded deep into injury time at home to Worthing. For a second game in a row, the Darts let slip a one goal lead to lose 2-1 to a newly promoted side. Connor Essam, once of Hemel Hempstead Town provided the Darts with an early lead after ten minutes, his header found the corner of the Worthing net. Despite Luke Allen and new loan signing Adam Lovatt having chances to extend the lead it remained 1-0 at the break. Six minutes into the second half and Worthing were level when Callum Kealy’s shot beat Young. After a spell of pressure from the visitors, Dartford came close when Campbell’s free-kick hit the crossbar just passed the hour. In the final minute of injury time the Rebels took home the three points after Joel Colbran scored the winner.

Goalkeeper, Dan Wilks was ruled out with an ankle injury meaning a debut was given to Joe Young. The Wolverhampton Wanderers academy goalkeeper is on loan until January and has represented England at various youth levels. Davide Rodari, who had scored in his previous two appearances was also missing through injury. Lovatt was also given his debut after coming in on loan from League Two side Sutton United. Dowson made a further three changes with Kristian Campbell returning from injury, whilst Alex Wall and Maxwell Statham made their first starts since signing in the summer.

A second consecutive home loss with an away defeat in between means Alan Dowson’s side have slipped to 13th place, after winning their opening two games of the campaign. However, the Darts can still be optimistic travelling to Vauxhall Road having won their last four there and are unbeaten in 11 against Hemel Hempstead Town.

The two clubs have formed links over the previous couple of years and that was demonstrated by this fixture last term. Tyrique Hyde was on loan at Hemel Hempstead Town from the Darts, but the midfielder was recalled prior the meeting between the two sides at Vauxhall Road. Hyde made an impact scoring twice in a 3-2 Dartford victory, Ade Azeez was the other goalscorer from the penalty spot. Alfie Cerulli had earlier equalised at 1-1 for the Tudors and he was also responsible for a late consolation.

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Highlights – Hemel Hempstead Town v Dartford (20/11/2021) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In the reverse fixture Dartford hosted the Tudors for the first time since 2019. The Darts had a difficult afternoon falling behind when Gus Scott-Moriss gave the visitors the lead. Under Steve King, the hosts were trying to maintain an unbeaten home run in the league that had stretched to 16 games. So, there was relief when it was extended to a 17^th match thanks to Marcus Dinanga’s last-minute equaliser. Samir Carruthers missed out that day as he was on loan from the Tudors, the midfielder could make his first start against his former side. Former Dart, Craig King was in goal for the Tudors in the draw and remains at the club, the goalkeeper made 18 appearances for Dartford before his move to Hertfordshire.

Over this summer, the Darts have signed striker Pierre Fonkeu from Hemel Hempstead Town and already he has netted four goals this season in five games. Just as productive in front of goal, Jordan Greenidge has scored three in his opening five appearances for Hemel Hempstead Town after signing from Weymouth. The striker was on loan at Dartford last season and scored six times in only eight matches. Kory Roberts also impressed on loan in his 22 appearances under Steve King, the defender joined the Tudors from Bromley. Finally, Jernade Meade could be up against his former side after switching clubs over the summer, the full back played 25 times for the Darts.

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Highlights – Dartford v Hemel Hempstead Town (09/04/2022) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The trio of former Darts have been part of Mark Jones’ newly assembled squad. The Tudors boss handed out nine debuts on the opening day, only Craig King and Charlee Hughes starting from the squad that was there last term. Roberts, Meade and Greenidge were all involved, and it was Greenidge who scored the winner in a 1-0 win over newly promoted Farnborough. The striker was at it again in the following outing putting the Tudors in front against Hampton and Richmond Borough. However, the Beavers equalised to share the points.

Like the Darts, the Tudors are on a three game losing streak, firstly defeat at Braintree Town where Hemel Hempstead Town were beaten 3-1, Ogo Obi scoring his first for the club since signing from Hanwell Town. Then a 4-2 loss against Welling United which saw the Tudors throw away a two goal lead given to them by Josh Castiglione and Greenidge’s penalty. The Wings hit back with three goals in six second-half minutes. Stefan Payne then Anthony Papadopoulos had the scores level and on the 55^th minute Payne scored what turned out to be the winner. On Saturday, the Tudors played their second of three games against Kent sides and were humbly beaten by Dover Athletic 4-0.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 7 / Hemel Hempstead Town wins: 1 / Draws: 5

Current League Form

Dartford (WWLLL)			Hemel Hempstead Town (WDLLL)
Worthing	H	1-2	Dover Athletic	A	0-4
Taunton Town	A	1-2	Welling United	H	2-3
Havant and Waterlooville	H	1-2	Braintree Town	A	1-3
Cheshunt	H	2-1	Hampton & Richmond	A	1-1
Bath City	A	2-0	Farnborough	H	1-0

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 1 – 1 Hemel Hempstead Town (09/04/2022 – National South)
Hemel Hempstead Town 2 – 3 Dartford (20/11/2021 – National South)
Hemel Hempstead Town 1 – 3 Dartford (10/11/2020 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Hemel Hempstead Town (31/08/2019 – National South)
Hemel Hempstead Town 1 – 2 Dartford (05/03/2019 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 0 Hemel Hempstead Town (11/08/2018 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in 11 games against Hemel Hempstead Town (W6, D5)
The Darts have won each of their last four visits to Vauxhall Road and are unbeaten in five.
Dartford have gone three games without a league point for the first time since April 2019. The Darts last lost four consecutive league matches in March 2016.

On This Day

Dartford were on the receiving end of Alan Dowson’s Hampton and Richmond Borough six years ago. The Darts were thumped 4-1 at the Beveree with Christian Jolley, now Dowson’s assistant at Princes Park getting the first goal. Danny Harris equalised, but goals from Michael Kamara, Nicke Kabamba and a Tom Bonner own goal completed the win for the Middlesex club. A year before, the Darts had a better afternoon in their Kent derby with Margate, goals from Lee Noble and Elliot Bradbrook secured a 2-0 victory. Bradbrook also netted in the 2011 triumph against Bromley, Charlie Sheringham and Harris also scored as the Darts recorded a 3-1 win. Two years earlier, Lee Burns found the back of the Wealdstone net in a 1-1 draw. Dartford’s biggest win on this day came in 1959 when they beat Kettering Town in the Southern Premier League, Tommy Huckstepp scored 37 goals in 43 games in that campaign.

Dartford v Worthing

August 26, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford hope to return to winning ways when they host Isthmian Premier League champions Worthing this weekend.

The Darts were victorious in their opening two fixtures, but have fallen short in their last two outings with a pair of defeats. Worthing are settling quickly in their first ever campaign in the National South and are one of four unbeaten teams in the division.

Alan Dowson needs to pick up his players after consecutive 2-1 losses, first at Princes Park against Havant and Waterlooville then at Taunton Town last weekend. Whilst the Hawks are expected to be challenging for promotion and currently in second place, Taunton Town are new to the division and still finding their feet. On Saturday down in Somerset, the Darts named an unchanged side for a third consecutive match and once again Davide Rodari’s goal wasn’t enough to earn any points. The man on loan from Crawley Town netted his second of the season to add to the one he scored against Havant and Waterlooville. Dartford now occupy tenth place thanks to their opening two wins at Bath City and Cheshunt in which Pierre Fonkeu grabbed a brace in each game.

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HIghlights – Taunton Town v Dartford (20/08/2022) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Four games into the new campaign and Dowson’s identified what is needed to improve the team, he spoke to Dartford FC TV after Saturday’s loss and said: “Last year’s team I’ve looked at them and the new signings I’ve looked at them and we need some legs in the team”, he added: “we haven’t got anybody to win the ball back. The two centre halves will get stuck in, but around the pitch I haven’t got anybody else who is going to win a battle for us”. Leading up to this weekend’s match, the Dartford boss has been looking for the ideal type of player to compliment a team who have shown they are more than capable in possession of the ball.

Pleased with the performances of the opening three games and up to the point Taunton Town turned a one goal deficit around, Dowson may make some changes to the line-up after selecting the same eleven for the last three outings, especially with two games coming up over the Bank Holiday weekend. Goalkeeper, Daniel Wilks played his 50^th game in goal for the Darts with an ankle injury and didn’t train with the team on Monday. Dowson is hopeful Wilks will be fit enough to start against Worthing. Goalscorer, Rodari limped off against Taunton Town after getting a knock on his knee, but the Dartford boss is optimistic the forward will be available. Meanwhile, Cameron Brodie has gone out on loan to Isthmian Premier League side Margate.

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Interview – Alan Dowson’s thoughts on the loss at Taunton Town – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Worthing claimed the Isthmian Premier title with three games to spare last term, scoring a century of goals and accruing 97 points. The momentum has continued under Adam Hinshelwood with two wins on the road and two draws on their own patch. The signing of former Dart, Jake Robinson may have caught the eye. However, after his debut goal the striker picked up a knee injury ruling him out of a Princes Park return and for most of the season. Robinson scored 17 goals in 32 games for Dartford including a hat-trick in the delayed Kent Senior Cup final.

Two of Worthing’s opponents were two divisions higher last season and the Reds have picked up four points in those meetings. The first points came on the opening day with Robinson responsible for Worthing’s first ever goal in the National South after just five minutes against Dover Athletic, but Lee Martin spoiled the party as it ended 1-1.

The Sussex side didn’t have to wait long for their maiden victory beating another Kent side, Welling United 4-2. Again, Worthing were fast out the blocks when Callum Kealy put the Reds ahead, the forward signed from Dorking Wanderers in the summer. Former Dartford midfielder Tyrique Hyde levelled two minutes later before Lewis White and Joe Rye gave Hinshelwood’s men a two-goal advantage. Another ex-Dart, Ade Azeez scored to put the Wings within touching distance, but Kealy’s second secured Worthing’s first ever National South maximum.

A second win followed over Weymouth, who were playing in the National League last term. The Reds swept the Terras aside with a 3-0 win, two goals from last season’s top scorer Ollie Pearce and another by Joel Colbran continued Worthing’s unbeaten start. Last weekend the Sussex club extended their current run and kept a second clean sheet in a row earning a 0-0 draw at home to Chippenham Town. Hinshelwood gave debuts to Sammie McLeod, Adam Adam and Daniel Bowry when the trio came off the bench as substitutes. After four outings Worthing sit in third place on eight points.

Since promotion Adam Hinshelwood has strengthened his squad with several players providing National South experience. Playoff winner, Kane Wills moved back to Worthing from Dorking Wanderers, Nodirbek Bobomurodov arrived from Hungerfod Town and Charlie Towning from Eastbourne Borough. Lewis White has made the step up from Carshalton Town, whilst Adam El-Abd gives Worthing plenty of Football League experience.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Worthing wins: 1 / Draws: 1

Current League Form

Dartford (WWLL)			Worthing (DWWD)
Taunton Town	A	1-2	Chippenham Town	H	0-0
Havant and Waterlooville	H	1-2	Weymouth	A	3-0
Cheshunt	H	2-1	Welling United	A	4-2
Bath City	A	2-0	Dover Athletic	H	1-1

Last Five Meetings

Worthing 1 – 2 Dartford (26/09/2009 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 2 – 1 Dartford (20/11/1982 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 3 – 0 Worthing (12/11/1927 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 1 – 0 Worthing (12/10/1921 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 0 – 0 Dartford (08/10/1921 – F.A Cup)

Statistics

Dartford have won both games played at home against Worthing
The Darts have not played the Rebels for 12 years and have never met in a league fixture
Dartford have only ever played Worthing in F.A Cup matches. The pair have been drawn out together four times, the Darts progressed in the competition on three occasions to Worthing’s one.
The Darts last lost three league games in a row in April 2019, towards the end of the 2018/2019 campaign

On This Day

Goalkeeper, Deren Ibrahim scored a long-range free kick six years ago on this day as the Darts beat Hungerford Town 2-0. Ibrahim opened the scoring with just over ten minutes remaining and when Alex Brown doubled the lead the points were made safe. Tom Bonner scored in 2018 when the Darts beat East Thurrock United 2-0 at Princes Park, Ben Greenhalgh wrapped up the victory. In 2012, Nathan Collier’s late looping winner at Cambridge United earned Dartford a famous win in the National League. Danny Harris put the Darts in front before James Jennings levelled for the hosts. Dartford have won five of their last six on 27 August with Chelmsford City the only side to take points off the Darts in a 0-0 draw 11 years ago. Jay May scored a Princes Park hat-trick in 2007 as Tony Burman’s Isthmian Division North title winning side beat Aveley 4-0, Brendon Cass scored the other. The same score was recorded six years earlier in the local derby against Erith and Belvedere.

Taunton Town v Dartford

August 19, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford’s second away game is back in the West Country this weekend when they take on Southern Premier South champions Taunton Town for the first time.

Successful in their first trip to Somerset on the opening day, the Darts will be aiming to bounce back from Tuesday night’s defeat and record a third win of the season. Taunton Town have yet to record a victory failing to score in their first three fixtures, the Peacocks will be hoping to record their first ever triumph in the National South.

Alan Dowson has opted for a stability in his selection policy making just one forced change to the starting eleven in the three games so far. Injured in the 2-0 win at Bath City on the opening day, Kristian Campbell has been out with Luke Allen starting the last two matches. The midfielder has impressed and has been linking up well in the centre of the pitch with Samir Carruthers. However, the pair were unable to help the Darts avoid defeat on Tuesday night against a strong Havant and Waterlooville side.

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Highlights – Dartford v Havant and Waterlooville (16/08/2022) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Jason Prior just loves scoring against Dartford and the Hawks striker was at it again giving the visitors an early lead. The Darts were level with Davide Rodari netting his first goal since joining from Crawley Town in the summer. Havant and Waterlooville’s, Oscar Gobern won it for the Hampshire outfit with a second half winner condemning Dowson’s men to their first loss of the campaign. Despite picking up no points at home and a ‘slow start’ the performance was still good enough according to the Dartford boss.

Striker, Pierre Fonkeu had netted all of Dartford’s goals leading up to Tuesday’s match so it was a relief to see Rodari open his account. Dowson has called upon his players to help out with increasing the goal tally so they don’t rely on Fonkeu too much. The Dartford boss feels improvement can be made in defence as well as attack and is hoping to look at the loan market to provide more competition within the squad.

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Interview – Alan Dowson talks to Dartford FC TV after the Havant and Waterlooville game

After two victories and a loss, the Darts turn their attention to a first ever trip to Wordsworth Drive. The long journey means the squad will be travelling down the day before to aid their preparations against Taunton Town.

The Peacocks claimed the Southern League South on the final day last season. A late winner versus Farnborough, who could have snatched the title was enough to see the Peacocks cross the finishing line in first place. The same two sides were up against each other on Tuesday night and it was Boro who came out on top this time, Omar Rowe scoring the winner for the Hampshire club.

Rob Dray’s side entered their first ever National South campaign with momentum winning 19 of their last 22 fixtures. However, the opening three games this term has yielded no goals and one point. A 0-0 draw in the first game against Welling United was followed up by a single goal defeat versus Concord Rangers. The Peacocks have used the summer transfer window to sign experienced players at this level including ex Bath City trio Dan Ball, Lloyd James and Dave Sims-Burgess. Another new signing, Nat Jarvis finally got international clearance in time to make his debut on Tuesday, the striker played for Chippenham Town before moving to Barry Town United.

Current League Form

Dartford (WWL)			Taunton Town (DLL)
Havant and Waterlooville	H	1-2	Farnborough	A	0-1
Cheshunt	H	2-1	Concord Rangers	A	0-1
Bath City	A	2-0	Welling United	H	0-0

Statistics

Dartford last won their opening two away games in consecutive seasons in 2005 and 2006.
The Darts have scored in their last 11 away games in all competitions stretching back to their F.A Trophy exit last season in February.
Dartford have failed to score in the league just once on the road in 2022, the North Kent Derby defeat to Ebbsfleet United on 2 January.
The Darts have kept three clean sheets in their last four away matches in the league.

On This Day

Dartford have won their last four fixtures on this day with the most recent in 2016 against Weston-super-Mare. Luke Wanadio and a Ryan Hayes goal six minutes from time helped the Darts to a 2-1 victory. In fact the last three matches on 20 August have ended with the same score. In 2011, Charlie Sheringham and Elliot Bradbrook netted first-half goals against Hampton and Richmond Borough. Future Dart, Jacob Erskine pulled a goal back for the Beavers at Princes Park. In the Southern League Division One East back in 2005, Dartford defeated Stamford Town and two years earlier they beat Burgess Hill Town 1-0. On the road, the Darts have won five and lost two on this day.

Dartford v Havant and Waterlooville

August 16, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 1 Comment

Dartford have made a perfect start to the season and will want to maintain their recent form against Havant and Waterlooville on Tuesday night.

The Darts have won their opening two National South fixtures and are currently on a run of seven unbeaten against the Hawks. At Princes Park, over the same number of games Dartford have not yet to lose to the Hampshire side. Havant and Waterlooville have to go back 22 years since their last win away from home in this fixture, a F.A Cup third qualifying round tie.

Last season the spoils were shared in a 1-1 draw with Alex Wall scoring the equaliser for Havant and Waterlooville. The striker made the switch to Dartford over the summer to begin his third spell with the club. So far this term, Wall has come off the bench in both fixtures and will be hoping to make an impact against his former side. Dartford had taken the lead in last season’s meeting through Kory Roberts and could have had a second, but Ade Azeez’s penalty was saved by Ross Worner. The reverse match ended in a Dartford victory with Luke Allen scoring the only goal of the game.

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Highlights – Dartford v Havant and Waterlooville (19/03/2022) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Allen made his first start of the campaign on the weekend coming in for the injured Kristian Campbell. That was the only change ahead of the first home game against newly promoted Cheshunt with Sam Odaudu filling in at left back. Defender, Maxwell Statham made his first competitive appearance as a late substitute. Despite the tweaking of the defence, the Darts almost came away with a consecutive clean sheet, but it was Pierre Fonkeu who grabbed the headlines again. The striker netted a brace to add to the two he scored at Bath City on the opening day. Cheshunt grabbed a late consolation when former Dartford academy graduate Dajon Golding made it 2-1.

Speaking to Dartford FC TV after the game, Martin Tyler said: “We won but we can do better”, he added: “When we get the ball we’ve shown we’re a pretty decent side, but we need to get the ball a bit more often. We’re still trying to get the blend right. We’ve not got that many players, so I think there is still that bit of scope for investment to strengthen the squad, but we’re doing okay”.

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Interview – Martin Tyler talks to Dartford FC TV after the Cheshunt win

Havant and Waterlooville were pipped to the final playoff place last season and this time out they have picked up four points in their two openers. A 3-1 victory at home on the first day of the season against Slough Town set them on their way with a stunning goal from Jake McCarthy followed by Gianni Crichlow’s first for the club, since signing from Braintree Town in the summer. Crichlow scored the equaliser for the Iron last season against the Darts in a 2-2 draw. After Ben Harris halved the deficit for Slough Town, Crichlow was involved again setting up Paul Rooney for a third.

On the weekend, the Hawks showed spirit to earn a point in their first away day of the campaign. Another former Dartford striker made an impact on the game, but not in a good way for the Hawks. Jason Prior retaliated and when he kicked out at a Braintree Town player he was shown a red card, leaving his side down to ten men for the remaining 70 minutes. Despite the disadvantage, the visitors went ahead when James Roberts hit his effort into the top corner, for his second in as many games. The hosts levelled in the second half, Levi Amantchi heading in the equaliser in a 1-1 draw.

Looking ahead to Havant and Waterlooville’s trip to Princes Park, Roberts spoke to HWFC Media after the draw, he commented: “Every game in this league is tough, every away game is tough and we go to one of the teams that expect to be up there”, he continued: “We had two really difficult games against Dartford last year so we know what to expect, we know they will be very, very good. We know that it will be a real challenge”.

Over the summer manager Paul Doswell made a few signings including the return of Jason Prior, who scored the championship winning goal in his previous spell with the Hawks denying the Darts the National South title on the final day. After scoring over 40 goals for Enfield Town last season, Muhammadu Faal has made the step up. Danny Wright and Jake Andrews moved from Torquay United and Joash Nembhard arrived from Hemel Hempstead Town. The centre back is likely to come face to face with former teammate’s Fonkeu and Samir Carruthers.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 7 / Havant and Waterlooville wins: 4 / Draws: 5

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 1 – 1 Havant and Waterlooville (19/03/2022 – National South)
Havant and Waterlooville 0 – 1 Dartford (09/02/2022 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Havant and Waterlooville (31/10/2020 – National South)
Havant and Waterlooville 1 – 2 Dartford (25/07/2020 – National South Playoff)
Dartford 1 – 1 Havant and Waterlooville (10/08/2019 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Havant and Waterlooville (13/01/2018 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in their last seven games against Havant and Waterlooville (W4, D3)
The Darts are also seven unbeaten at home against the Hawks (W4, D3)
Dartford have scored in their last six meetings versus the Hampshire side

On This Day

Charlie Sheringham and Adam Green scored against Eastbourne Borough on this day in 2011. The National South fixture at Princes Park finished 2-1, Dartford’s last victory on this day. Since then, the Darts lost 1-0 on the road to Kidderminster Harriers in the National League eight years ago. The most recent outing was a 0-0 home draw with Gosport Borough back in the National South two years later. After winning the Isthmian Division One North in 2008, the Darts were welcomed to the Isthmian Premier League with a 3-0 away humbling at Hendon on the opening day. Also on 16 August, Dartford played out a 3-2 victory against Great Wakering Rovers in 2005 and suffered their only home defeat on this day two years earlier against Bashley, the Darts have won four and drawn three of the other home fixtures.

Dartford v Cheshunt

August 11, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford will want to keep up their winning start in their first home game of the season against newly promoted Cheshunt.

The Darts made Princes Park a fortress last season going 17 league games unbeaten, their best home run from the start of a campaign since the 1925/26. However, home form towards the end tailed off as they lost two of their final three fixtures and also fell short in the playoffs on home turf. Dowson and his team will want to get back to the excellent home form that served Dartford so well last term and make it consecutive victories to begin 2022/2023.

Last weekend, new Dartford signing Pierre Fonkeu had a debut to remember in Bath. Likewise, the Cheshunt made a statement in their first ever National South fixture helped by two former Darts.

Alan Dowson gave first league starts to Davide Rodari, Sam Odaudu, and Fonkeu and was rewarded with a 2-0 victory in the opener against Bath City. It took Fonkeu 65 minutes to open his account and he was involved again forcing an own goal five minutes later. Goalkeeper Dan Wilks provided the assist for the first goal when he played a long pass into plenty of space from a free kick on the edge of his box. Fonkeu used his pace and strength to get through on goal and side footed a confident first time shot into the roof of the net. The second goal came from the striker setting Carruthers on a charge through the centre and after the ball found its way out wide, the midfielder continued his run, received the ball and squared it across to Fonkeu who applied enough pressure on Bath City defender Zac Bell.

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Highlights – Bath City v Dartford (06/08/2022) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Assistant manager, Christian Jolly was delighted with the way Dartford handled a tough Bath City side, he spoke to Dartford FC TV and said: “It was a professional performance, we were really pleased. We traveled overnight, we tried to do things as properly as possible, the boys were on board and they took on the information we gave them and they delivered”.

Jolly praised Fonkeu on his debut, commenting: “He had closest to the complete performance for ninety minutes. First half he did all of the dogged stuff and the ugly stuff. Second half, he then had the opportunity to show his quality and score some real individually quality goals”. The assistant boss also singled out the adaptability of Odaudu and Luke Allen in midfield. Allen had to replace Kristian Campbell at half-time who picked up a shoulder injury. Whilst Odaudu started out in midfield then filled in for Campbell at full back, whose injury will be assessed ahead of this weekend’s fixture. Striker, Alex Wall continued his return from injury with a substitute appearance, whilst Charlie Sheringham was not ready to make the squad.

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Interview – Christian Jolly after the Bath City victory – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Cheshunt arrive in the National South with momentum knowing they have already created history. The Ambers are guaranteed their highest ever league position and on the opening day were not deterred by the step up. Manager, Craig Edwards can be delighted with his team’s attitude last weekend after they went two down versus one of Dowson’s former clubs Hampton and Richmond Borough. It turned out to be one of the results of the day with Cheshunt staging a comeback in the final fifteen minutes.

Dajon Golding, once of Dartford’s academy set the Ambers on their way on his debut after signing from Worthing in the summer. The striker made two substitute appearances for the Darts and scored in the Kent Senior Cup almost seven years ago. The equaliser came from last season’s joint top scorer Rowan Liburd, another ex-Dart who made three appearances during a loan spell in 2019/2020. In the final minute, the other top scorer from last season, Reece Beckles-Richards netted a dramatic winner to get the Hertfordshire off the mark. There was one more Dartford connection in goal, Preston Edwards who was signed by the Darts as back up in July 2020.

Craig Edwards summed up the day when he spoke to www.cheshuntfc.com, he said he had: “Mixed emotions really. I was really disappointed with our first half performance. I thought we were timid, I thought we were off the pace. It looked like for the first time ever for this group, the occasion had got to us a little bit”. The Ambers boss was pleased with the change of attitude after the break, leaving him excited about the challenges ahead. Coming into this fixture on Saturday, Edwards said: “I expect 100% from the boys and 100% from me and the staff, giving it everything we’ve got. If we do that then we’ve got a chance with anyone”.

The Ambers came fifth in Isthmian Premier League South last term and won the Isthmian Promotion Final against Hornchurch to cap off a brilliant campaign. The Hertfordshire club won the county senior cup for the first time and reached the last sixteen of the F.A Trophy. It was only three years ago when they won the playoff final to get into the Isthmian Premier making it back to back promotions in their last two fully finished seasons.

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in their last seven home openers of the season winning their last two (W4, D3)
Charlie Sheringham could make his 100th start for the club if selected in the starting eleven

On This Day

Charlie Sheringham was on target twice in a convincing 4-0 opening day victory over Weston-super-Mare in 2011. Elliot Bradbrook scored the first of the afternoon and another current player, Tom Bonner also found the back of the net. That win made it four out of four on 13 August after a 2-1 win against Guildford City in 1969, a 3-1 triumph over Whitstable Town in 1994 and a 1-0 victory over Arlesey Town in 2005. The run came to an end in 2013 when the Darts lost 4-0 to Aldershot Town in the National League. Dartford drew their last game on this day six years ago against Chelmsford City. Luke Wanadio put the Darts ahead in Essex only for Shaun Jeffers to equalise.

Bath City v Dartford

August 4, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford kick start their National South campaign at Bath City this weekend with Alan Dowson taking charge of his first competitive game for the club.

The Darts will be hoping to recreate the last time they visited Twerton Park on the opening day when they came home with a 2-1 victory four years ago. Last season Dartford completed a league double over the Romans and knocked their opponents out of the F.A Trophy on penalties, meaning the Kent side have lost just one of their last 13 outings against Bath City.

Dowson is confident his players will be ready when it matters on Saturday after his side’s final pre-season fixture. The Darts lost to Canvey Island, but despite defeat the new boss believes the current squad is the strongest he has worked with for a while and is glad his players’ poor performance is out of their system. Midfielder, Luke Allen completed a full match and new signing, Alex Wall managed some game time to help the striker get fit after injury.

Wall will start his third spell at Dartford, in his first he scored six goals in 11 appearances, but his second failed to materialise after he was moved on before the season began. Charlie Sheringham, back for a fourth time missed the Canvey Island defeat after re-joining the Darts. Injured in the draw at Chatham Town, the striker has previously scored 54 goals in 119 appearances for Dartford.

Latest signing Pierre Fonkeu arrives from Hemel Hempstead Town, the forward scored in the pre-season draw against Boreham Wood whilst on trial with the Darts. The 25-year-old will be one of several players integrating into the squad, which includes Davide Rodari, Maxwell Statham and Luke Coulson. Fonkeu linked up with Samir Carruthers last term for a small period in February and March, the pair can form a partnership again now Carruthers has made a permanent switch to Princes Park.

Prior the final warm-up game, Dowson spoke to Dartford FC TV and is pleased with how the squad is shaping up, he said: “The lads have been brilliant in training, they have been excellent to work with, they’ve worked very hard. We’re trying to get the standards as high as we possibly can on the training ground which leads to on the pitch”. The 52-year-old is also highlighting the pathway for the academy by adding Cameron Brodie, Sam Odaudu and Marvin Herschel to the squad.

As the new era begins, Dowson is looking forward to the opener against Bath City, he commented: “It’ll be fantastic getting everybody ready for the first game of the season, everybody is excited, I’m excited as well and I’m looking forward to a good season hopefully”.

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Highlights – Bath City v Dartford (04/09/2021) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

A trio of now departed players found the back of the net the last time Dartford visited Twerton Park in the National South just under a year ago. Ade Azeez, now with local rivals Welling United opened the scoring and Jake Robinson, now at newly promoted Worthing doubled the lead. Bath City’s Alex Fletcher pulled a goal back, but George Porter, now at Dulwich Hamlet made it 3-1. The return fixture at Princes Park in February finished 2-0 to the Darts with goals coming from Kalvin Kalala, who joins Porter and Josh Hill at Hamlet and Marcus Dinanga, who is back with his parent club Altrincham. Other players moving on this summer include Jack Jeeb to promoted Dorking Wanderers, Danny Leonard returning to Sheppey United, Jernade Meade joining Hemel Hempstead Town and Olumide Durojaiye switching to Hereford, whilst Tyrique Hyde links back up with Azeez at Welling United.

Bath City manager, Jerry Gill is also pleased with how preparations have turned out for the new campaign, he spoke to Bath City Radio last weekend and said: “We look ready, the one thing I wanted was to have peace of mind that we’re fit. We’re strong, the shape looks good and we’re ready to go”. The Romans have had a good pre-season winning their last two warm-up games against Bristol City’s under 23 side then Yate Town, but Gill acknowledges that results only really matter when the league begins.

Summer signings provide extra depth to the squad that was perhaps missing last term, when the Romans recorded their lowest finish for seven years. Gill has delved into the Football League by bringing in seven players from higher divisions including Chris Lines from Stevenage and Scott Wilson from Dagenham and Redbridge. Both Zac Ball and Tommy Blackwell arrive from Bristol City, Joe Wright from Millwall, Luke Spokes from Grimsby Town and Jordan Dyer from Exeter City. Providing plenty of experience of National South football, Kieran Parselle made the switch from Chippenham Town and teams up again with Danny Greenslade, whilst Rex Mannings and Dan Hayfield join from lower league sides Frome Town and Tiverton Town respectively.

The Bath City boss is relishing the opportunity to take on the Darts on the opening day with a home crowd in support, he commented: “Dartford will be one of the favourites in the league. Dowse has built a strong squad down there, knows the National League South inside out, so he knows what players to bring in and his recruited well, so it’ll be a tough challenge. You have to play these teams at any point, we’re really excited we’re playing at home”.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 26 / Bath City wins: 46 / Draws: 20

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 2 – 0 Bath City (19/02/2022 – National South)
Bath City 0 – 0 Dartford (27/11/2021 – F.A Trophy)*
Bath City 1 – 3 Dartford (04/09/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Bath City (17/10/2020 – National South)
Bath City 3 – 0 Dartford (30/11/2019 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 0 Bath City (09/02/2019 – National South)
* – Dartford won 5-3 on penalties

Statistics

Dartford have lost just once in their last 13 games against Bath City (W10, D2)
In those 13 matches, the Darts have kept eight clean sheets and only once have the Romans scored more than one goal
At Twerton Park, Dartford have only been defeated once in their last eight visits (W4, D3)

Folkestone Invicta v Dartford

May 16, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Silverware is up for grabs for Dartford when they aim to retain the Kent Senior Cup against Folkestone Invicta on Tuesday night in Chatham.

On the way to winning the last edition of the competition the Darts beat Folkestone Invicta in the quarter-final. Steve King will be hoping for history to repeat itself and help Dartford lift the cup for the thirteenth time. Folkestone Invicta are in their sixth Kent Senior Cup final, but have yet to get their hands on the trophy.

For a second consecutive county cup campaign the Darts will be facing Invicta. In a last eight meeting just over two years ago, Dartford scored two goals in each half on their way to a 4-0 victory. Liam Nash set the Darts on their way with a goal just past the half hour mark. Tyrique Hyde, one of three in the current squad who started in the last game against Invicta, doubled the lead. Billy Crook and Elliot Romain extended Dartford’s advantage to send them into the final four where they beat Phoenix Sports 5-1. In the final played this season back in November, Jake Robinson scored a hat-trick in a 6-1 victory over Whitstable Town.

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Highlight’s of the Darts beating Invicta on the way to reaching the 2020 final – Dartford FC TV

Dartford will want to end their season in style after playoff heartbreak on Thursday night. King made just the one change to the side that thrashed Eastbourne Borough 7-2 on the last day of the regular season. Jernade Meade was back in the starting eleven replacing Jordan Wynter. The Darts were unable to find their scoring boots for a second home game in a row drawing another blank, this time against Chippenham Town in the National South playoff eliminator. Dan Roberts had the best opportunity early in the tie, but Dartford created little else at Princes Park. The visitors hit the woodwork and missed the rebound late on in normal time as it finished 0-0. Extra time followed and with both sides still unable to score it went down to penalties. Despite a pair of saves from goalkeeper Reice Charles-Cook in the shoot-out, the Darts lost 3-2 and will be playing National South football next season.

The Darts finished fourth in the league and having been knocked out of the playoffs it allows King to select a strong side for the Kent Senior Cup final. After a blistering start to the campaign the Darts lost touch with the front runners dropping too many points in October, November and January. A run of five straight victories in February put Dartford in with a chance, but disappointing defeats on the road and a spell of more draws left too much to do in the end. At Princes Park, King led his side to a 17-game unbeaten home run in the league, the best from the start of a campaign for 96 years. More recently on the road, Dartford have scored 13 in their last two outings beating Slough Town 6-0 before the emphatic victory at Eastbourne Borough.

Folkestone Invicta also had an outstanding start in their Isthmian Premier campaign and at one stage it looked like promotion was a possibility. Neil Cugley guided Invicta to a 12-game unbeaten run from the start of the season picking up 26 points early doors. However, just two wins in eight slowed Folkestone Invicta’s progress. Whilst results became consistently good again, the final run-in saw Invicta drop out of the playoff places after one triumph in their last nine outings, their last fixture an entertaining 4-4 draw with Haringey Borough. In the end they finished their Isthmian Premier League campaign in sixth, missing out on a playoff place.

Helping Folkestone Invicta to their second sixth place finish in a full season in a row, Luke Wanadio permanently signed for the club in February. The winger made 15 appearances and scored five goals since joining from Dartford initially on loan. Wanadio had three spells with the Darts making a total of 99 appearances and scoring 18 times. Defender Ryan Johnson also once donned a Dartford shirt back in the 2009/2010 Isthmian Premier winning campaign appearing 17 times for the club and scoring one goal. This season Johnson made 36 appearances to reach half a century for Invicta.

Story so far

Second Round
Dartford 2-1 Dover Athletic
Jordan Greenidge scored twice on debut to start Dartford’s defence of the Kent Senior Cup. The striker opened his account after eighteen minutes and added a second with fifteen minutes to go. Dover Athletic pulled a goal back, but the Darts went through to the last eight of the competition.

Folkestone Invicta 0-0 VCD Athletic (Folkestone Invicta won 3-2 on penalties)
Neither side could make the important breakthrough in a goalless draw after 90 minutes. So the tie went straight to penalties with Invicta making it into the last eight. Out of the four missed penalties all of them missed the target, VCD Athletic failing to score three of them. Invicta were more clinical from 12 yards securing a 3-2 shoot-out victory.

Quarter Final
Margate 2-4 Dartford
Luke Allen opened the scoring after just six minutes to get Dartford on the way, but Margate equalised six minutes later through James Bessey-Saldanha. The Darts pulled away in the second half with goals from Kalvin Kalala, Ade Azeez and Ody Alfa before Vance Bola pulled one back for the hosts.

Folkestone Invicta 3-1 Ebbsfleet United
Two first-half goals in the space of five minutes changed this tie in Folkestone Invicta’s favour. Club record goalscorer, Ian Draycott added to his career tally putting the hosts ahead, then Invicta went two goals up after David Smith scored one of his 34 netted this term. Rakish Bingham gave Invicta something to think about by getting one back for Fleet, but the tie was settled when Simo Mbonkwi scored on debut

Semi Final
Welling United 2-2 Dartford (Dartford won 5-3 on penalties)
The Darts had one hand removed from the cup they are defending when Welling United went two up. A brace from Henry Burnett had the Wings in control, but Jordan Greenidge got the Darts back in the tie. The returning Dan Roberts won a stoppage time penalty, up stepped Jake Robinson to force a penalty shoot-out. Dartford scored all five and Reice Charles-Cook made a save to see the Darts through to the final.

Hythe Town 0-2 Folkestone Invicta
Two first half strikes from Ade Yusuff and David Smith put Invicta in command, the pair ended up with 62 goals between them this season in all competitions. Over a thousand turned up to watch the semi-final as the kick off was delayed due to crowd congestion. Yussuf scored with a low drilled shot and Smith finished a well taken goal, which was enough to settle this semi-final.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 6 / Folkestone Invicta wins: 10 / Draws: 4

Current Form (all competitions)

Dartford (WDWLWD)			Folkestone Invicta (WDWLDW)
Chippenham Town* (NSPO)	H	0-0	Hythe Town (KSC)	A	2-0
Eastbourne Borough	A	7-2	Haringey Borough	A	4-4
Braintree Town	H	0-1	Margate	H	0-1
Slough Town	A	6-0	Leatherhead	A	1-0
Welling United (KSC)**	A	2-2	Corinthian Casuals	H	2-2
St Albans City	H	3-1	Ebbsfleet United (KSC)	H	3-1

NSPO = National South Playoff / KSC = Kent Senior Cup
* lost 3-2 on penalties
** won 5-3 on penalties

Previous Meetings (last six)

Dartford 4 – 0 Folkestone Invicta (25/02/2020 – Kent Senior Cup)
Folkestone Invicta 1 – 4 Dartford (07/12/2011 – Kent Senior Cup)
Dartford 2 – 2 Folkestone Invicta (12/09/2006 – Isthmian League Cup)*
Dartford 1 – 2 Folkestone Invicta (18/01/2005 – Kent Senior Cup)
Folkestone Invicta 0 – 1 Dartford (13/03/2004 – Southern League Division One)
Dartford 1 – 6 Folkestone Invicta (24/02/2004 – Southern League Division One)
*Dartford won 5-3 on penalties

Stats

Dartford have played five times against Folkestone Invicta in the Kent Senior Cup (W2, L3)
The Darts are three games unbeaten against Invicta (W2, D1) having lost the previous eight in a row between 1998 and 2005
The last four meetings have been cup ties and Dartford have won the last three

On This Day

Dartford have only played twice on this day with a record of one win and one defeat. The 1946/1947 Southern League campaign went on until mid-June, so even after the 1-0 loss at Hereford, the Darts still had six more games to go. Dartford ended the season in 11th place, a month earlier they won the Kent Senior Cup for the fifth time. Thirty years later, Dartford played their final home game of the 1976/1977 season beating Atherstone United 2-1, three days later they completed the Southern Premier League in 18th place. Silverware was also picked up that season when they beat Yeovil Town in the Southern League Cup in April.

Dartford v Chippenham Town

May 11, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford start their National South playoff campaign with home advantage against Chippenham Town on Thursday night.

The Darts signed off the regular season in style to bag a home tie in the eliminator round. A resounding 7-2 win on Saturday against an Eastbourne Borough side, who have also made the playoffs will give Steve King’s team confidence in their push for promotion to the National League. Finishing fourth means Dartford are up against Chippenham Town, who sneaked into the playoffs on the final day of the season.

Dartford ended the campaign strongly on the road scoring an incredible 13 goals in their final two away matches. The Darts beat Slough Town 6-0 and followed that up with a handsome win at Eastbourne Borough. Yet in between those victories they lost only their second match at home versus Braintree Town, a second defeat at Princes Park in three games after going an impressive 17 unbeaten on their own patch.

King made another six changes for the final game of the season in a campaign which has seen the Darts use 45 players in all competitions. Dan Roberts retuned to the starting eleven for the first time since November and first league appearance since he came on as a substitute against Ebbsfleet United in February, the forward has been on loan at Carshalton Athletic. Jordan Wynter also returned from injury, whilst Samir Carruthers, Kalvin Kalala, Kristian Campbell and Marcus Dinanga were also selected. Three of those managed to get on the scoresheet justifying King’s rotation policy on the weekend. Dan Roberts opened the scoring as early as the fourth minute, whilst Dinanga and Kalala both netted a brace. Kory Roberts and Jordan Greenidge also found the back of the Eastbourne Borough net on a fantastic afternoon for the Darts.

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Dartford sign off the National South campaign in style at Eastbourne Borough – Dartford FC TV

Dinanga approaches the playoffs in red hot form, the striker only joined Dartford in February on loan from Altrincham. In that time the 24-year-old has scored 13 goals in 15 appearances and ended up as Dartford’s top goalscorer in the league. Greenidge is another loanee after arriving from Weymouth, he has taken his opportunities when presented with them scoring six in eight appearances including three in his last two outings. King can also call upon Ade Azeez and Jake Robinson, the pair have scored 33 between them in all competitions since joining in the summer. Defensively, the Darts have managed 18 clean sheets and, in the league, boasted the second-best defensive record. Captain, Tom Bonner has marshalled the back line and since Conor Essam’s injury in March has struck up a good partnership with on loan defender Kory Roberts. Meanwhile, player of the season Dan Wilks has been out injured, but goalkeeper Reice Charles-Cook has been more than an adequate replacement in the final four games.

King, who has lost playoff finals with Dartford, Welling United and Whitehawk now has the dilemma of whether to stick with the players involved in the last two away wins or use his squad with the thought of a potential semi-final on Sunday. Although planning too far ahead would be foolish with Chippenham Town on the horizon. The Bluebirds have taken four points off the Darts this term.

Chippenham Town sneaked into the playoffs after some good form. The Bluebirds beat Havant and Waterlooville on the final day to take the last spot from their opponents. The Wiltshire club will be a tough prospect for the Darts having taken four points off them this term

The sides played out an entertaining 3-3 draw at Princes Park during the last meeting at Dartford’s home in November. The Darts came from behind to lead at the break, then twice gave up their advantage. Dan Griffiths put the visitors in front, but his goal was cancelled out by Ade Azeez. The now departed Noor Husin put Dartford in front before the interval and in the second-half Ricky Aguiar equalised again for the visitors. Azeez looked like he’d won the match for the Darts with thirteen to go, but in the final minute Luke Russe rescued a point for the Wiltshire club.

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The Darts last home meeting against Chippenham Town back in November – Dartford FC TV

In the return fixture Dartford needed victory to keep the pressure on at the top and keep their title aspirations alive. Having just beaten league leaders Dorking Wanderers a win for Steve King’s side would have put his side in with a really good shout for top spot. However, the Darts were stunned in a 4-2 defeat which saw Keiran Murtagh sent off. The midfielder is likely to miss the playoffs after picking up an injury at Slough Town.

Jordan Greenidge scored to give Dartford a seven minute lead, his first league strike for the club. Four minutes after Kieran Murtagh was cautioned, the hosts equalised through Jordan Young, then before the interval Murtagh received a second yellow card and was sent off. Chippenham Town made the man advantage count in the second period. First, Young put the Bluebirds ahead, then Alefe Santos D’Abadia stretched the hosts lead. Ade Azeez gave Dartford hope, however Chippenham Town secured maximum points with a fourth scored by Joe Hanks.

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The Darts last meeting against Chippenham Town in March – Dartford FC TV

Chippenham Town finished 15 points behind the Darts and made it into the playoffs in a pressure game at Havant and Waterlooville. The Bluebirds needed to win at Westleigh Park to fly past the Hawks and into the final playoff place. Heading into the clash, Gary Horgan’s side were four unbeaten with three wins and a draw. The interim manager has only been in charge for five weeks taking over from Mike Cook. Although Horgan lost his first match in charge against runners up Dorking Wanderers, he has improved Chippenham Town’s form at the right time taking the club from eleventh to seventh.

The unbeaten run was extended on the final day with the decisive 2-0 triumph over Havant and Waterlooville. A Jordan Young double was enough to not only secure a top seven finish but also record the club’s highest ever finish in the National South. Young finished top scorer in the league for the Bluebirds with nine goals. Since defeat at Dorking Wanderers, the Wiltshire club kept back-to-back clean sheets in victories over playoff contenders Oxford City and mid-table side Dulwich Hamlet. The Bluebirds took a crucial point against Ebbsfleet United, the side waiting for the winner of this eliminator tie and were disappointed not to have won after squandering the lead twice. A last-minute winner from Noah Coppin against Hungerford Town in their penultimate match set up the final day drama in Hampshire.

The Bluebirds have not only found form at the perfect moment they also have a respectable record against the teams that have made the playoffs. They have lost the fewest against their competitors and have beaten Dorking Wanderers, Dartford and Oxford City. However, those victories came at Hardenhuish Park and on their travels they have yet to beat a side finishing between second and sixth picking up four draws out of five.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Chippenham Town wins: 2 / Draws: 3

Current League Form

Dartford (WLWWLW)			Chippenham Town (LWWDWW)
Eastbourne Borough	A	7-2	Havant and Waterlooville	A	2-0
Braintree Town	H	0-1	Hungerford Town	H	3-2
Slough Town	A	6-0	Ebbsfleet United	A	2-2
St Albans City	H	3-1	Dulwich Hamlet	H	2-0
Maidstone United	H	0-1	Oxford City	H	1-0
Billericay Town	A	2-0	Dorking Wanderers	A	0-3

Previous Meetings

Chippenham Town 4 – 2 Dartford (12/03/2022 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 3 Chippenham Town (06/11/2021 – National South)
Chippenham Town 1 – 2 Dartford (27/10/2020 – National South)
Chippenham Town 1 – 5 Dartford (01/02/2020 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Chippenham Town (26/10/2019 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Chippenham Town (13/04/2019 – National South)
Chippenham Town 1 – 2 Dartford (13/10/2018 – National South)
Chippenham Town 2 – 2 Dartford (20/01/2018 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 0 Chippenham Town (09/09/2017 – National South)

Stats

The last four meetings between Dartford and Chippenham Town has seen 21 goals (5.25 goals per game)
Dartford have lost two of their last three at home after going 17 unbeaten at Princes Park in the league
The Darts are unbeaten at home against sides that have reached the playoffs (W3, D2)
Chippenham Town have not won on the road against the other teams in the playoffs (D4, L1)
Dartford have the joint best home defence conceding 18. Chippenham Town have the joint best away defence conceding just 20.

Season Comparison

Dartford
Won 21 Drawn 11 Lost 8 For 75 Against 42 Points 74 Goal Difference +33
(Home record W10, D8, L2, F32, A18, Pts 38, GD +14)

Chippenham Town
Won 16 Drawn 11 Lost 13 For 61 Against 50 Points 59 Goal Difference +11
(Away record W6, D8, L6, F22, A20, Pts 26, GD +2)

Eastbourne Borough v Dartford

May 5, 2022 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford’s final game of the National South season against Eastbourne Borough will decide who both sides will face in the playoffs.

These two sides could easily be going head-to-head again as early as mid-week depending on this weekend’s results. If the Darts finish lower than third, they will be taking on the team that finishes sixth or potentially seventh in the playoff eliminator round.

Dartford are currently fourth and to avoid the eliminator round they must beat Eastbourne Borough and hope Ebbsfleet United drop points at home to Chelmsford City. Any other outcome will see the Darts start their playoff campaign on Wednesday 11 May, if they finish fifth or Thursday 12 May, if they stay in fourth. The Darts can only finish fifth if they lose to Eastbourne Borough and Oxford City beat Bath City at Twerton Park, there also needs to be a three-goal swing.

Eastbourne Borough are likely to finish sixth and can only be caught by seventh place Havant and Waterlooville. For that to happen, the Hawks will need to win their clash for the last playoff spot against eighth place Chippenham Town. Danny Bloor’s side have a six-goal advantage over Havant and Waterlooville.

Playoff fixtures
Wednesday 11 May 2022 – Eliminator Match A (5th v 6th)
Thursday 12 May 2022 – Eliminator Match B (4th v 7th)
Saturday 14 May 2022* – Semi Final (2nd v Eliminator Winner Match A)
Sunday 15 May 2022 – Semi Final (3rd v Eliminator Winner Match B)
Saturday 21 May 2022 – Promotion Final
*Subject to change to Sunday 15 May if both clubs are in agreement

Third place was in Dartford’s hands after an impressive 6-0 away win at Slough Town last weekend. With a Bank Holiday fixture also scheduled, Steve King chose to make six changes in the final home game of the regular season and saw his side come undone in a poor display against lowly Braintree Town. The Dartford boss was without Player of the Season Dan Wilks, so Reice Charles-Cook continued in goal. Keiran Murtagh, who managed to score three times in his last two games looks likely to be out for the playoffs after injury at Slough Town. Jordan Wynter is also struggling with injury, whilst Jernade Meade is being carefully reintroduced after a period on the sidelines, he started in the 1-0 defeat on Monday. In form striker Marcus Dinanga made a substitute appearance against Braintree Town, suggesting King is being cautious about his fitness ahead of the playoffs. Dinanga has scored 11 goals in his 14 appearances for the Darts and could be key to their success.

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Highlight’s of Dartford’s last game against Eastbourne Borough – Dartford FC TV

The reverse fixture took place on August Bank Holiday and in only his second start for the club Jake Robinson opened his account with a brace. The first after seven minutes was a predatory finish and the second came from the penalty spot, after some sublime build up play led to a handball. The Sports hit back immediately after the break when Greg Luer made the most of a lack of concentration to cut Dartford’s lead in half. Ade Azeez was brought on and his well-placed header secured victory for the Darts.

Victory over Eastbourne Borough came six months after losing to the Sussex side at Princes Park. The winning goal for the Sports came from Chris Whelpdale. Nine days later the National South 2020/2021 campaign was declared null and void. In fact, Eastbourne Borough were one of the very few teams the Darts played twice that season. Dartford’s last visit to Priory Lane in December 2020 resulted in a 3-1 loss. Charley Kendall, Whelpdale and Joe Rollinson all scored for the hosts, Jacob Berkeley-Agyepong netted a consolation.

Eastbourne Borough have had a very good season under Danny Bloor and in the club’s last three full campaigns they had finished eighteenth. The Sports manager joined the Sussex side around the same time King started his Dartford journey, so it’s also his first full season in charge at Priory Lane. Perhaps with the knowledge of almost certainly making the playoffs, their form has dipped since the start of April. Currently on a run of three straight defeats after a pair of draws, the Sports are winless in five league outings, but they had already done enough to guarantee a top seven place.

Over the Bank Holiday weekend, Eastbourne Borough first lost in what was an important game at the time for Billericay Town. The Sports fell to their first home loss since early February and only their fifth on their own patch this term in the National South. Two early goals gave the visitors hope of staying in the division, although that hope was ended two days later. Eastbourne Borough pulled a goal back through Charlie Walker, but it wasn’t enough to avoid defeat to the team bottom of the table. Then on Monday they lost 2-0 at Tonbridge Angels to leave them in sixth place but guaranteed their highest finish since returning to the National South in 2011.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 13 / Eastbourne Borough wins: 8 / Draws: 4

Current League Form

Dartford (DWLWWL)			Eastbourne Borough (WDDLLL)
Braintree Town	H	0-1	Tonbridge Angels	A	0-2
Slough Town	A	6-0	Billericay Town	H	1-2
St Albans City	H	3-1	Havant and Waterlooville	A	0-3
Maidstone United	H	0-1	Welling United	H	3-3
Billericay Town	A	2-0	Slough Town	A	2-2
Hemel Hempstead Town	H	1-1	Concord Rangers	H	2-0

Previous Meetings (last six)

Dartford 3 – 1 Eastbourne Borough (30/08/2021 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Eastbourne Borough (09/02/2021 – National South)
Eastbourne Borough 3 – 1 Dartford (05/12/2020 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Eastbourne Borough (22/02/2020 – National South)
Eastbourne Borough 0 – 2 Dartford (02/11/2019 – National South)
Eastbourne Borough 6 – 0 Dartford (20/04/2019 – National South)

Stats

After going 12 games unbeaten against the Sports, Dartford have won three of the last seven meetings (D0, L4)
Dartford have won just two of their last eight final matches of the season (D2, L4) both on the South coast (Poole Town and Bognor Regis Town)

On This Day

Dartford were beaten in the National South playoff semi-final against Chelmsford City five years ago. Two goals in the final twenty minutes put the Clarets 2-0 up on aggregate, Duane Ofori-Acheampong scored a last minute consolation. That defeat is one of only two on this day, the Darts also lost 1-0 to Bath City in 1977. Dartford have won six and drawn two in the ten outings on 7 May. The last victory came in 1983 when Dartford won on the road at Enderby Town in the Southern Premier League. Between 1927 and 1955, the Darts won all five on this day including a 7-0 Southern League East victory over Bournemouth and Boscombe Reserves in 1932. Dartford are unbeaten when away from home on this day, winning three and drawing the other.

Category: Match Preview (Page 20 of 26)

Chippenham Town v Dartford

Hemel Hempstead Town v Dartford

Dartford v Worthing

Taunton Town v Dartford

Dartford v Havant and Waterlooville

Dartford v Cheshunt

Bath City v Dartford

Folkestone Invicta v Dartford

Dartford v Chippenham Town

Eastbourne Borough v Dartford

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