Category: Season Preview (Page 1 of 10)

Season Preview 2026/2027

July 19, 2026 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Burgess Hill Town

Either side of the millennium, Burgess Hill Town were the team to beat in the Sussex League. The Hillians claimed five league titles in seven years, twice finishing runners up in that period. Eventually they got out of county level for a campaign in the Southern League, then moved over into the Isthmian. The Hillians stormed to the Division One South title in 2015 with over a century of points and goals. However, they struggled in the years leading up to Covid and were relegated to step four of non-league. It took them four more full campaigns to return to the Premier, winning the 2025 Isthmian Division One South East playoff final.

2025/2026 Season
Isthmian Premier: 8th
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 1st Round
County Cup: 2nd Round
League Cup: Quarter-Final
Top League Scorer: George Vorster (15 goals)

The Hillians took a couple of months to get to grips with the Isthmian Premier despite winning their opening two matches. An entertaining 3-3 draw at Princes Park was the beginning of a solid run. Burgess Hill Town lost just once in 11 outings lifting them from 18th to eighth. From then on, the Hillians were consistently on the playoff periphery. Only four sides conceded more goals than the Sussex side and that cost them the points they required.

Manager – Gary Mansell

Last season Gary Mansell was half of a managerial partnership with Jay Lovett. This season Mansell is going solo after Lovett’s appointment at Whitehawk. In April last year Mansell was also given the role of Director of Football. He already has experience in that role having previously worked for the Russell Martin Foundation. The Hillians boss will continue has committed to first team duties again and will be hoping to push the Sussex club into the playoffs.

Summer Transfers

Defender, Luther Williams will be at Burgess Hill Town. He left Dartford this summer after making 72 appearances for the club. Arriving from National South champions, Nicky Wheeler will bring experience to Leylands Park. Luca Cocoracchio and Shamir Fenlon move down a division from Dover Athletic and Horsham respectively.

Remaining in Sussex Joel Daly joins from Whitehawk. After relegation with Hashtag United last term, Josh Rusoke will also be a Hillian. Brad Berry (Hastings United) and Yoan Marc-Oliver (Harrow Borough) both make the step up.

Three players have departed Leylands Park and remain in the Isthmian Premier. Bobby Price joins newly promoted Leatherhead. Josh Spinks leaves after a season to go to Lewes. Kaan Bennett moves to Kent to sign for Welling United. Alex Malins has also left the club.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 7 / Burgess Hill Town wins: 2 / Draws: 1

Previous Six Meetings

Burgess Hill Town 2 – 1 Dartford (24/01/2006 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 3 Burgess Hill Town (30/09/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Burgess Hill Town 0 – 1 Dartford (14/10/2017 – F.A Cup)
Burgess Hill Town 1 – 2 Dartford (10/01/2015 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 3 – 1 Burgess Hill Town (25/10/2014 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 7 – 2 Burgess Hill Town (13/01/2007 – Isthmian Division One South)

Next Meetings

Burgess Hill Town v Dartford – Saturday 29th August 2026
Dartford v Burgess Hill Town – Saturday 12th December 2026

Statistics

The Darts are unbeaten at home in the league against the Hillians (W2, D1)
Dartford lost away in the league for the first against Burgess Hill Town last season ending a perfect record of four away wins out of four in all competitions
The last four league games between the two sides have averaged 6.25 goals per game (Dartford 17 Burgess Hill Town 8)

Match Highlights – 2025/2026

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Season Preview 2026/2027

July 19, 2026 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Brentwood Town

A decade ago, Brentwood Town were promoted to the Isthmian Premier League where they stayed for just one season. The Blues had two near misses in the playoffs of 2022 and 2024. Those disappointments were soon forgotten when they won the Isthmian Division One North title just over a year ago. Last season they were back and this time they almost left the division again, but at the right end. The Blues managed to keep their winning mentality and took the Isthmian Premier by surprise. Reaching another playoff and almost making it consecutive promotions, Brentwood Town had a great campaign last time out.

2025/2026 Season
Isthmian Premier: 5th
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 2nd Round
County Cup: 4th Round
League Cup: 3rd Round
Top League Scorer: Daniel Ogunleye (20 goals)

On the opening day Brentwood were welcomed to the division with a local away day at relegated Aveley. A draw gave the Blues confidence and a brilliant run of eight consecutive wins made everyone take note. Dartford brought that run to an end in October with a draw. Then they suffered four defeats in six, people wondered how long the Essex club would last at the top. Aside from another patchy spell in January, Brentwood Town need not worry. The Blues were consistent enough to win a playoff place. Two Essex derbies saw them beat Aveley, then lose the final to Billericay Town after extra time.

Manager – Keith Rowland

Former West Ham United defender, Keith Rowland played for the likes of AFC Bournemouth and Queens Park Rangers to name a few. Adding to his playing experience he won 19 international caps for Northern Ireland too. Rowland’s coaching career began at Braintree Town. He went into management with Wingate and Finchley in 2016, where he recorded the club’s highest finish on two occasions. Spells followed at Aveley and Tilbury before his current role at Brentwood Town.

Summer Transfers

The issue with be so successful after promotion is your best players will be picked up in the transfer market. It’s testament to what Rowland has built and this summer he has been building again. Three new signings won promotion out of the Isthmian Premier last season. Mikey Berry arrives from champions Folkestone Invicta, Tommy Davis and Ben Steward have been signed from Billericay Town.

Harry Seaden will be the new man between the sticks after his switch from Cray Wanderers. Nat Mardell moves from Isthmian Premier newcomers Stanway Rovers and Sid Walker comes in from Grays Athletic. The Blues also added Malachi Linton from AFC Totton, Harry Gibbs from National South playoff winners Hornchurch and Charlee Adams from Chelmsford City.

Replacing the goals of Daniel Ogunleye will be a challenge, the striker earned a move to Ebbsfleet United. Also, on the up, Alejandro Machado is now at Folkestone Invicta and Kymani Thomas at Dagenham and Redbridge.

Former Dartford legend, Lee Noble leaves the Blues for Heybridge Swifts. Ade Cole (AFC Whyteleafe), Charlie Edwards (St Albans City) and Ethan Kaiser (Carshalton Athletic) remain in the Isthmian Premier. Jon Nzengo has departed and joined Tilbury.

Head to Head

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

Previous Six Meetings

Dartford 3 – 2 Brentwood Town (31/01/2026– Isthmian Premier)
Brentwood Town 1 – 1 Dartford (11/10/2025– Isthmian Premier)
Brentwood Town 1 – 2 Dartford (25/11/2017 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 0 – 1 Brentwood Town (29/03/2008 – Isthmian Division One North)
Brentwood Town 2 – 2 Dartford (05/02/2008 – Isthmian Division One North)
Brentwood Town 2 – 1 Dartford (08/03/1969 – Southern League First Division)

Next Meetings

Dartford v Brentwood Town – Tuesday 11th August 2026
Brentwood Town v Dartford – Tuesday 20th October 2026

Statistics

Dartford’s win in January was their first in the league against Brentwood Town in 58 years (D3, L2)
The Darts have hosted the Blues four times in all competitions and have a 50% win rate (W2, D1, L1)
Dartford last won an away league game at Brentwood Town in 1968 and have drawn in their last two league visits (L1, D2)

Match Highlights – 2025/2026

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Season Preview 2026/2027

July 18, 2026 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Aveley

This time two years ago Aveley reached their peak finishing seventh in the National South. In their debut season they made the playoffs losing out in the eliminator round, but set their highest ever finish. Leading up to their record breaking season, the Essex club had won consecutive promotions under Danny Scopes, so momentum was on their side. Then second season syndrome hit and they were relegated, bottom of the pile and returned to the Isthmian Premier. The Millers almost bounced back immediately last term, but fell short in the playoffs.

2025/2026 Season
Isthmian Premier: 2nd
F.A Cup: 4th Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 3rd Qualifying Round
County Cup: Semi-Final
League Cup: 4th Round
Top League Scorer: Ollie Peters (14 goals)

Aveley took a couple of months to get their promotion push going. Perhaps, adapting to a new manager after a relegation season the Millers needed time. A 1-1 draw with Dartford at the end of September was the start of a four month unbeaten league run spanning 16 games. The Millers went from 11th to fourth and within in a couple more matches reached second where they remained. Hoping to reel in champions Folkestone Invicta, the Essex club couldn’t make up the ground then eventually lost in the playoff semi-final.

Manager – Brett Munyard

Brett Munyard started off his managerial career at White Ensign. In his time with Ensign he guided them promotion from Step 7 to Step 5. He then moved to Brightlingsea Regent in November 2021 and managed to steer them to survival in the Isthmian Premier. Most recently Munyard moved from Regent to Maldon & Tiptree before becoming manager of the Millers in the summer of 2025.

Summer Transfers

Some of Aveley’s transfer dealings have involved former Dartford players. Eddie Dsane had two seasons at the Darts and scored 27 goals. Having been used as a substitute under Adrian Pennock last season, Dsane felt it was time to move on despite a new manager arriving at Princes Park this summer.

Malachi Napa played under Alan Dowson in the 2022/2023 campaign and made 22 appearances for Dartford. The winger joins Aveley from Isthmian North champions Maldon and Tiptree.

Louis Dunne was part of the Dartford side that made the playoffs featuring 24 times in 2024/2025. The midfielder originally signed for Aveley, then Chelmsford City came calling with a player coach role that he accepted.

Giovanni Palmer joins from Dulwich Hamlet and Max Booth from Peterborough Sports. Ellis Bates impressed on trial during pre-season and has earned a permanent deal from Stevenage.

Ex-Dart, Liam Nash departs the Millers and teams up again with former Dartford manager Steve King at Eastbourne Borough. Jesse Nwabueze will be featuring for King’s Lynn Town. Tobi Tinubu and Ryan Charles have also departed the Millers.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 7 / Aveley wins: 3 / Draws: 4

Previous Six Meetings

Dartford 2 – 0 Aveley (17/01/2006 – Isthmian Premier)
Aveley 1 – 1 Dartford (20/09/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 1 – 2 Aveley (27/02/2024 – National South)
Aveley 0 – 1 Dartford (26/08/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 2 Aveley (17/04/2010 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 4 – 5 Aveley (15/12/2009 – Isthmian League Cup)

Next Meetings

Aveley v Dartford – Saturday 31st October 2026
Dartford v Aveley – Saturday 9th January 2027

Statistics

Dartford have lost only one of the last ten in all competitions against Aveley (W6, D3)
The Darts have lost just once at home against the Millers in the league (W3, D2)
Dartford are unbeaten in their last five trips to Aveley (W3, L2)

Match Highlights – 2025/2026

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Season Preview 2026/2027

July 18, 2026 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

AFC Whyteleafe

A phoenix club rebuilt just five years ago, AFC Whyteleafe has had nothing but success on their way to the Isthmian Premier. Starting from the Surrey South Eastern Combination, they were promoted in their debut as runners up. After a year consolidating in the division above, Leafe won consecutive titles, reached Wembley in the F.A Vase before last season’s playoff triumph made it back-to-back-to-back promotions. As a measure of the club’s progress they will be sharing ground with Cray Wanderers this season at Flamingo Park.

2025/2026 Season
Isthmian South East: 4th
F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 1st Qualifying Round
County Cup: Quarter-Final
League Cup: 3rd Round
Top League Scorer: Moses Emmanuel (21 goals)

At the end of September, AFC Whyteleafe entered the playoff places and never fell out. The Surrey side racked up the second highest number of goals reaching 109 in the league. Results included two 8-0 victories, a 6-0 win and a 5-0 opening day triumph. However, it wasn’t as easy in the playoffs and they had to battle past third place Jersey Bulls and runners up AFC Croydon Athletic. On both occasions AFC Whyteleafe held their nerve winning on penalties to earn another promotion.

Manager – Ennio Gonnella

In 2021, Kelly Waters founded AFC Whyteleafe and then went on to manage the club for four years. When the now Chairman made way he promoted Ennio Gonnella from his position as assistant manager. Gonnella had two previous spells with Kent Football United and a stint at FC Elmstead before joining the Leafe and guided them to a third consecutive promotion in his first campaign.

Summer Transfers

A debut season in the Isthmian Premier can be daunting, but AFC Whyteleafe are not content to just make up the numbers. Over the summer the Surrey side have signed some experienced players who know this level. Matty Warren and Francis Mampolo arrive from National South side Tonbridge Angels. Montel McKenzie won the Isthmian Premier title last season and joins from Folkestone Invicta.

Ade Cole was part of the Brentwood Town that came so close to another promotion last term. Making a step up from Sheppey United is Dami Olorunnisomo.

Head to Head

No previous meetings

Next Meetings

AFC Whyteleafe v Dartford – Saturday 17th October 2026
Dartford v AFC Whyteleafe – Saturday 17th April 2027

Statistics

Dartford lost just one game against newly promoted sides last season (W2, D3)
The Darts have never played AFC Whyteleafe, but did win both meetings against the folded club Whyteleafe in the Isthmian Division One South during the 2006/2007 campaign
AFC Whyteleafe will be one of three new opponents this season for Dartford

Season Preview 2025/2026

August 7, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

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

August 6, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

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

August 5, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

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

August 4, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

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

August 3, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

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

August 2, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

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

Category: Season Preview (Page 1 of 10)

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