Category: Season Preview (Page 1 of 10)

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

Season Preview 2025/2026

August 1, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Lewes

In the early 2000’s Lewes moved up through the Isthmian Leagues to the National South. By the end of the decade, they reached the National League. That success was the tipping point as the cost was too much. As a result the Rooks were relegated from the National League after one season. Afterwards they became a community club and since 2011 have remained in the Isthmian Leagues.

2024/2025 Season
Isthmian Premier: 13th
F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 2nd Round
County Cup: 3rd Round
Top League Scorer: Danny Bassett (20 goals)

Five consecutive wins from the start of the campaign had Lewes top of the table. Surprise leaders by mid-October, the Sussex side were unable to maintain their early season form. Their first defeat was a 5-0 reverse at Potters Bar Town. Then the Rooks went on to win just three over the next 23 league outings. Although the slide was steadied from February, Lewes finished thirteenth despite such a promising start.

Manager – Bradley Pritchard

A former player at the Dripping Pan, Pritchard played for the club between 2021 and 2024.. As a player he gained football league experience with Charlton Athletic and Leyton Orient. After leaving the O’s, aside from his spell with the Rooks he played for Greenwich Borough and Cray Wanderers. Pritchard had player coach roles at Beckenham Town and most recently Phoenix Sports.

Summer Transfers

A trio of former Cray Valley Paper Mills players joined Lewes over the summer. Antigua and Barbuda international, Dan Bowry and Clement Asiedu were two of them. Hassan Ibrahiym moves from Dulwich Hamlet, but had a previous spell with the Millers.

Staying in Sussex, Finlay Chadwick makes the switch from Worthing having recently been on loan at Steyning Town. Perri Iandolo has had his fair share of moves over the last year and he makes another one by joining Lewes. Devonte West makes the step up from Hollands and Blair. Ryan Bernal will be donning the red shirt after joining from Hertford Town.

Relegated with Hastings United last term, Louis Rogers will be in goal for Lewes after making 44 appearances in 2024/2025. In front of Rogers helping the defence will be experienced defender Ian Gayle, who joins from Folkestone invicta. Another moving further south from Kent to Sussex is Jack Burchell, the defender was at Welling United. Jordan Maguire-Drew and Billie Clark don’t need to travel far to get to their new club having arrived from Whitehawk. Kaan Bennett came through Colchester United’s academy and joins have gained experience at Needham Market as well as Maldon and Tiptree. After a successful trial, Arezki Hamouchene is a Rook.

Lewes will start the campaign without last season’s top scorer and captain, Danny Bassett. The striker was given an eight month ban for breaching the FA’s betting rules towards the end of last term.

Departures include Jack Meeres to Whitehawk. Josh Spinks returns to newly promoted Burgess Hill Town for a second spell with the club. Goalkeeper, Toby Bull joins Dulwich Hamlet.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Lewes wins: 1 / Draws: 1

Previous Meetings

Lewes 3 – 1 Dartford (08/03/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 2 – 0 Lewes (23/11/2024– Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 0 Lewes (26/03/2011 – National South)
Lewes 1 – 1 Dartford (30/10/2010 – National South)
Lewes 0 – 2 Dartford (15/01/1983 – F.A Trophy)

Next Meetings

Lewes v Dartford – Saturday 6th December 2025
Dartford v Lewes – Saturday 21st March 2026

Statistics

Dartford’s unbeaten run against Lewes came to an end in March (W3, D1)
The Darts have won both home fixtures against the Rooks without conceding a goal
Dartford have scored in all five games against Lewes

Match Highlights 2024/2025

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Match Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Season Preview 2025/2026

July 31, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Hashtag United

The youngest team in the division at just over nine years old. Hashtag United were founded by YouTuber, Spencer Carmichael-Brown. Exhibition games were filmed and a large social media following gained momentum. Publicity led to more investment and rising through the non-league pyramid. The Tags have won two league titles, most recently the Isthmian Division One North just over two years ago. For a second season in a row, the Tags looked comfortable in the Isthmian Premier.

2024/2025 Season
Isthmian Premier: 8th
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 3rd Round
County Cup: 3rd Round
League Cup: Quarter-Final
Top League Scorer: Misha Djemaili (17 goals)

Last season’s third best attack almost fired the Tags into the playoffs, but they fell away with four games to go. It took a while for the Essex side to find their stride. By mid-November they actually occupied the final relegation spot. Then Hashtag United clicked and put a seven-game unbeaten run together, lost to Billericay Town and replied with a four-game winning streak. The downfall for the Tags was their defence, but at least there was always entertainment. In total, matches involving Hashtag United saw the highest number of goals, 153 to be precise at 3.64 per game.

Manager – Jay Devereux

In a playing career that was cut short due to injury, Jay Devereux has plenty of non-league experience. He has coached and played at county level through to the National League. After moving into coaching with Barking he managed reserve teams at Dagenham and Redbridge as well as Redbridge. As an assistant manager he spent seven seasons with East Thurrock United helping them reach the National South. Seven years at the helm of Hashtag United, Devereux has two league titles under his belt.

Summer Transfers

Captain for Cray Valley Paper Mills last term, Jason Ring joins the Tags after 151 appearances with the Millers. Evans Kouassi scored four goals in his last three games against the Tags. The Essex club have decided to sign the winger from Folkestone Invicta. Bradley Sachs helped Canvey Island to the Essex Senior Cup with his goals in the final, the striker becomes a new recruit.

Hashtag United have also kept their award winners from last season. Former Dart and Player’s Player of the Season, Max Cornhill remains with the Tags. Cornhill had two seasons with Dartford scoring nine goals in 66 appearances. Manager’s Player of the Season, Matt Wooldridge and Fan’s Player of the Season, Misha Djemaili stay.

Frenchman, Emmanuel Robe moves from Merstham. St Lucian international Kegan Caull arrives with experiences in Europe. The forward has played for NK Tolmin in Slovenia and Europa Point in Gibralter. Coming up from the Essex Senior League, Praise Ogbebor has signed from Romford.

Former Darts, Mert Apat and Alfie Cue depart the Tags this summer. Apat was part of Dartford’s squad last season making five appearances under Pennock before heading to Essex. Cue came through the Dartford academy in 2017 and made 11 senior appearances. Pedro Carvalho leaves after three years with the Tags.

Head to Head

Dartford wins 1 / Hashtag United wins 0 / Draws 1

Previous Meetings

Dartford 2 – 0 Hashtag United (08/02/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Hashtag United 3 – 3 Dartford (12/11/2024 – Isthmian Premier)

Next Meetings

Hashtag United v Dartford – Saturday 10th January 2026
Dartford v Hashtag United – Saturday 28th March 2026

Statistics

Dartford’s win against Hashtag United in February was the last of a tem game winning streak in the league for the Darts
Out of the current teams in the Isthmian Premier, Dartford have faced Hashtag United the fewest times joint with Chichester City (2)
The Darts scored five goals in their two games versus the Tags last season. Only Bognor Regis Town conceded more in the two league games against Dartford (6).

Match Highlights 2024/2025

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Match Highlights courtesy of Hashtag United

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Season Preview 2025/2026

July 30, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Folkestone Invicta

An Isthmian League side since non-league was restructured 21 years ago. Folkestone Invicta have spent the last nine campaigns in the Premier division. Invicta became the only club in the town in 1990 and didn’t take long to get out of the Kent League. From the Southern League they switched to the Isthmian. The Kent side suffered defeat in consecutive playoff finals. However, they won the Division One South by some distance in 2016. Invicta have been mainstays in the Premier ever since.

2024/2025 Season
Isthmian Premier: 12th
F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 2nd Round
County Cup: 1st Round
Top League Scorer: Daniel Smith (15 goals)

A patchy season for Invicta saw them pretty much mid-table across the board. Inconsistent form up until November meant the Kent side never recorded back-to-back league results for the first three months of the season. Then a couple of runs for good and bad evened form out. Four straight wins in November were followed by four consecutive defeats. From Boxing Day, Folkestone Invicta hit their peak with one loss in eight games, then inconsistent service resumed.

Manager – Jay Saunders

Jay Saunders gets to reshape Invicta’s squad in his first summer at the club. He left Tonbridge Angels in the National South at the tail end of last season. In management he took Maidstone United from the Isthmian Division One South to the National League within four years. Saunders won the Isthmian Premier League title between two playoff triumphs to get the Stones to the top flight of non-league. His shock departure from the Gallagher Stadium benefited Margate. He reached the League Cup Final with the Gate. Then moved to Tonbridge Angels and now Folkestone Invicta.

Summer Transfers

The new boss didn’t hang around in talking to his players and the club published the retained list three days after the campaign ended. The list included former Darts, Jack Jebb and Ade Yusuff who remain at the club. Jebb represented Dartford 67 times and scored nine goals. Yussuff was with the Darts last term scoring once in six appearances.

The first summer signing became a statement of intent for Saunders when he persuaded Kevin Lokko to reunite with him. Arriving from Maidenhead United, the central defender worked with Invicta’s boss at Maidstone United before moving to League Two Stevenage in 2016. Lokk also has National League experience with Dagenham and Redbridge and Aldershot Town.

Mikey Berry and Jeremy Santos have also worked with the Invicta boss, both join from Tonbridge Angels. Youth product, Brad Walledge is now part of the senior team, although he has made eight appearances previously. Ollie Black arrives from Worthing and spent some of last season on loan at Hastings United. Jake Hutchinson also makes the step down a division from National South side Enfield Town.

As a 16-year-old, Liam Smith was part of a Tonbridge Angels side that won promotion to the National South in 2019. Last season he came close to another promotion with Sittingbourne. Now 25, Smith gets another move up a division by joining Invicta. Narrowly missing out on the Isthmian Premier title with Billericay Town, Montel McKenzie will provide an option at full back.

Back to where he played his youth football, Josh Strouts impressed in pre-season and signs from Loughborough Students. Ben Mason is a new arrival from Dulwich Hamlet. Midfielder, Donell Thomas moves from Cheshunt. Ronnie Dolan left Invicta two years ago. He returns to Cheriton Road from Lydd Town to add to his previous nine years of service at Folkestone Invicta.

Invicta will have to replace the goals of their top scorer and Supporters Player of the Year, Dan Smith. The striker became Dartford’s first new arrival of the summer. Following the striker to Princes Park is goalkeeper Jon Henly. Another keeper to depart is Dan Kennedy, who moves to Hythe Town. Eventually Invicta found a shot-stopper in Ted Collins from Chelmsford City.

Meanwhile, two ex Darts, Sam Blackman and Nathan Green were released Blackman suffered an injury hit time at Dartford making just one appearance in January 2020. Green was at Princes Park on loan during the 2014/2015 season, made 15 appearances and scored twice.

Last season’s Young Player of the Year, Frankie Morgan has joined Cray Wanderers. Player’s Player of the season Amadou Kassarate has departed to join Dulwich Hamlet. Defender, Ian Gayle is another to depart moving further south to join Lewes. Winger Evans Kouassi leaves for Hashtag United.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 8 / Folkestone Invicta wins: 10 / Draws: 5

Previous Six Meetings

Dartford 2 – 2 Folkestone Invicta (05/04/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Folkestone Invicta 0 – 1 Dartford (21/12/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 6 – 2 Folkestone Invicta (17/05/2022 – Kent Senior Cup Final)*
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)**
* played at Chatham Town
** Dartford won 5-3 on penalties

Next Meetings

Dartford v Folkestone Invicta – Saturday 13th December 2025
Folkestone Invicta v Dartford – Saturday 14th March 2026

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in their last six against Folkestone Invicta in all competitions (W4, D2).
A victory for the Darts in December ended a run of five straight league defeats versus Invicta stretching back to 1998
In the league Dartford are winless in the last four at home against Folkestone Invicta (D1, L3).

Match Highlights 2024/2025

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Match Highlights courtesy of Invicta TV

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Season Preview 2025/2026

July 29, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dulwich Hamlet

A club with healthy crowds, Dulwich Hamlet are four times Isthmian champions. However you need to go back 76 years for the last Premier Division title. Hamlet did win the Division One South championship just over a decade ago though. The London based club have also won the F.A Amateur Cup four times and have lifted the Surrey Senior Cup a record 16 times.

2024/2025 Season
Isthmian Premier: 18th
F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 1st Round
County Cup: Semi-Final
League Cup: 3rd Round
Top League Scorer: Luke Wanadio (19 goals)

When Dulwich Hamlet beat future champions Horsham 5-2 in September they moved into fourth place. That’s really when it peaked for Hamlet because a couple of months later, they went on a wretched run. One win in 14 league outings, including a six-game losing streak saw them slide down the table. Dulwich Hamlet steadied themselves in February and early March to give a little breathing space. Although the London side almost got sucked back into a relegation battle, safety was secured with two games to spare.

Manager – Mark Dacey

Dulwich Hamlet had been keeping tabs on Mark Dacey. He previously worked under former manager Gavin Rose and his assistant Junior Kadi. Dacey moved away from Champion Hill to seek further opportunity and had spells at Sevenoaks Town and SE Dons. He impressed during his time at Rayners Lane by winning two thirds of his league games, averaging three goals a game and won the Middlesex F.A Cup.

Summer Transfers

New manager, Mark Dacey was appointed at Champion Hill over the summer and he made sure to secure the services of former Dartford winger, Luke Wanadio. The ex-Dart was awarded the Player’s Player and Supporters’ Player Of The Year last term. Wanadio had three spells with the Darts totalling 99 appearances and 18 goals. Jordan Wynter is another former Dartford player who has agreed to remain at Champion Hill. The versatile defender/midfielder played 147 times for the Darts scoring two goals. The third former Dart staying is Danny Mills who scored seven times in 26 games for Dartford.

Nyren Clunis makes a return to SE22 having previously played almost 500 games for Hamlet in his first spell scoring 117 goals. Another signing returning to Hamlet is Anthony Cook, who played for the club in the 2018/2019 campaign. The 35-year-old has gained plenty of experience with the likes of Chelmsford City, Ebbsfleet United and Bromley in the past. In between the sticks will be young goalkeeper, Toby Bull who was at Lewes last season.

Arriving from Cray Valley Paper Mills, Tom Chambers is another addition to the squad as well as Giovanni Palmer from Isthmian South Central champions Farnham Town. New signing Geoffrey Okonkwo experienced promotion with Bowers and Pitsea a couple of years back. The defender then moved to Chelmsford City and finished last season at Whitehawk.

After a season at Folkestone Invicta, Amadou Kassarate switches to Hamlet. Experienced midfielder, Alfie Payne tasted promotion with Braintree Town a couple of years ago before suffering relegation with St Albans City last season. He becomes another new addition at Champion Hill. Stepping up a division will be defender Joseph Adewunmi from Heybridge Swifts. At AFC Whyteleafe last season, Gaspar Mico enjoyed promotion and reached the F.A Vase final. Former Whitehawk midfielder Mannie Mensah cleared up the annual awards, they both join Hamlet.

After impressing during pre-season Lonit Talla and Sol Baugh have earned a deal. Talla arrives from Hendon and Baugh worked with Dacey before at Sevenoaks, but has joined from Cheshunt.

Midfielder, Ralf Hand has departed Champion Hill to make a move to Chatham Town. Max Hudson has moved to newly promoted Brentwood Town. Ben Mason has joined Folkstone Invicta. Jerome Binnom-Williams has moved to newly promoted Ramsgate.

Head to Head

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

Previous Six Meetings

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

Next Meetings

Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford – Saturday 9th August 2025
Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet – Saturday 29th November 2025

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in eight league games against Dulwich Hamlet (W5, D3)
The Darts are unbeaten at home in the league versus Hamlet (W3, D3)
Dartford have won the last three league games at Champion Hill and are unbeaten in the last four

Match Highlights 2024/2025

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Category: Season Preview (Page 1 of 10)

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