Tag: Dulwich Hamlet

Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet

One cup campaign ends and a new one begins when Dartford host Dulwich Hamlet in the F.A Trophy this weekend.

The Darts saw their F.A Cup run come to a halt last Saturday, but now they turn their attention to the F.A Trophy. Starting in the qualifying round for the first time in five years, Dartford are looking for their first victory in the competition since January 2022 having lost the last three. In the previous two campaigns the Darts were knocked out at the first hurdle. Dulwich Hamlet have participated in at least the first round for the last six years so will want to avoid an early exit.

Dartford are defending an unbeaten home record against Dulwich Hamlet having won three and drawn three since their first competitive meeting in 1996, when the two sides were paired up in the F.A Trophy third qualifying round. The Darts were in the Southern League South and Hamlet in the Isthmian Premier, a division above. In the days when Dartford shared a ground with Erith and Belvedere they held Hamlet to a 0-0 draw at Park View, five days later the Darts lost 3-1 in the replay.

Jordan Wynter was part of the Dartford team that last played against Dulwich Hamlet in April 2023. Versatile in defence or midfield, Wynter made 191 appearances prior switching allegiances in May. The only current player in Pennock’s team to have featured in that matchday squad was Samir Carruthers, but the midfielder was an unused substitute. Alex Wall had one of his good days scoring his first ever league hat-trick to reach a century of career goals. Harvey Bradbury added a fourth towards the end of the match as the Darts ran out 4-0 winners and extended their unbeaten run against Dulwich Hamlet to six.

The win at Princes Park completed a double over Hamlet that season after Dartford won 2-1 at Champion Hill in October 2022. The visitors had to come from behind and were made to work for the three points when Nana Owusu put Dulwich Hamlet in front. On the stroke of half-time Marvin Herschel won a penalty and Carruthers equalised from the spot. It took Dartford until six minutes from time to find the decisive breakthrough when Charlie Sheringham headed home.

Whilst the opening month of the campaign yielded five victories in six outings, form has dipped recently. Dartford approach the F.A Trophy tie on the back of three defeats in their four games last month. A heavy defeat at Dover Athletic was followed up by avoiding a F.A Cup upset against Leatherhead. The Tanners had beaten Dulwich Hamlet in the previous round, so when the Darts secured a 2-0 victory, they were rewarded with last weekend’s fixture against National South side Worthing.

After defeat to bottom of the table Bowers and Pitsea, Pennock made one change to the side to face Worthing last Saturday. George Whitefield replaced Mert Apat at the back. Sam Caiger, who has been out on loan at Hitchin Town took up a place on the bench. Oliver Box missed the F.A Cup tie with a groin injury and Duane Ofori-Acheampong was suspended for receiving a red card a fortnight ago, the striker will be unavailable for the next two matches. Callum Jones is bidding to become the first Dartford player to score in five home games in a row since Elliot Bradbrook, who managed seven goals in six consecutive matches back in March and April 2017.

This weekend the Darts will need to be alert straight from kick-off after conceding early goals in the last two games. In the 2-1 defeat versus Bowers and Pitsea, the visitors took the lead after four minutes and were two up midway through the first half. At Worthing it took the Sussex side six minutes to gain an early advantage through Danny Cashman’s long range shot. In the second half, Cashman and Tommy Willard put the Rebels in command. Eddie Dsane scored a consolation for the Darts as they exited the competition with a 3-1 loss. However, the scoreline doesn’t tell the whole story as the Darts hit the woodwork three times.

Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Despite exiting the F.A Cup, Pennock enjoyed the performance. After the game he spoke to Dartford FC TV and commented: “I thought we were outstanding, but that’s what is frustrating about us, we’re inconsistent. We didn’t whimper out of the F.A Cup, we had a right old go and I couldn’t have asked for anymore, I’m so proud of the boys”.

The Dartford boss is optimistic about the future, he said: “Because we’re a new squad it’ll take time to gel, but if we take this form into the league then we will have a good season, I really do believe that”. Looking towards the F.A trophy tie, he added: “I think it will be a cracking game. We’re at home, so we will hopefully put on another good performance and this time get a little bit of luck. We know it’s going to be difficult because they are a good side as well”.

Captain, Josh Hill has started every game for the Darts this season and his 77th appearance for the club is likely to come against a former side. The central defender left Princes Park for Champion Hill in June 2022. After a couple of loan spells he moved on to Hemel Hempstead Town before joining Dartford this summer for a third spell.

On the other side of the divide, Hamlet could have up to four players involved who have previously worn the Dartford shirt, including the aforementioned Wynter. Luke Wanadio was a tricky winger for the Darts appearing 99 times and scoring 18, he is Hamlet’s top scorer this term with eight goals in all competitions and won the club’s golden boot last season. George Porter scored six in 37 appearances for the Darts in 2021/2022 and Danny Mills scored seven in 26 games whilst on loan in 2017/2018.

Dulwich Hamlet were in league action instead on Saturday having been knocked out of the F.A Cup. Hakan Hayrettin’s side also came unstuck against Bowers and Pitsea finding themselves four down with just half an hour played. Former Dartford academy player Alfie Evans followed up his Princes Park brace a week earlier with another as the Essex side won 4-1.

On Tuesday night, Hamlet travelled to newly promoted Chichester City and picked up a point in a 0-0 draw. That leaves them in sixth place and two points ahead of the Darts in tenth.

Current Form

Dartford (WWLWLL) Dulwich Hamlet (DLWWLD)
Worthing (FAC) A 1-3 Chichester City A 0-0
Bowers & Pitsea H 1-2 Bowers & Pitsea A 1-4
Leatherhead (FAC) H 2-0 Horsham H 5-2
Dover Athletic A 1-5 Canvey Island A 3-2
Marlow Town (FAC) H 6-2 Leatherhead (FAC) A 0-1
Chatham Town H 3-1 Leatherhead (FAC) H 2-2
(FAC – F.A Cup / FAT – F.A Trophy)

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 6 / Dulwich Hamlet wins: 3 / Draws: 4

Previous Meetings

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)
Dulwich Hamlet 0 – 2 Dartford (28/08/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Dulwich Hamlet (25/01/2020 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 1 Dartford (07/12/2019 – National South)

Statistics

  • Dartford have won four of their last five matches against Dulwich Hamlet (D1)
  • The Darts are unbeaten at home in all competitions versus Hamlet (W4, D3
  • Callum Jones has scored in four consecutive home matches, the first Dartford player to do that since Darren McQueen (December 2019 to January 2020)
  • Dartford have failed to score in their last three F.A Trophy ties

On This Day

Tony Burman was back in charge in a cup game on this day in 2019. Charlie Sheringham scored twice in a 4-1 F.A Cup third qualifying round tie at Blackfield and Langley. Luke Allen and Adam Cunnington also scored in the New Forest. Three years earlier, the Darts beat Cray Wanderers 2-0 in the Kent Senior Cup first round with goals from Andy Pugh and Duane Ofori-Acheampong. Dartford’s only F.A Trophy game on 5 October came in 2002 when they lost 2-0 at Salisbury City in the preliminary round.

Season Preview 2024/2025

Dulwich Hamlet

A club with the highest average attendance in the Isthmian Premier last season. Dulwich Hamlet are four times Isthmian champions, but you need to go back 75 years for the last Premier Division title. However, they did win the Division One South championship just over a decade ago. Hamlet also won the F.A Amateur Cup four times and have lifted the Surrey Senior Cup a record 16 times, the most recent in the seventies.

2023/2024 Season
Isthmian Premier: 11th
F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 1st Round
County Cup: 2nd Round
Top League Scorer: Luke Wanadio (19 goals)

Five years in the National South came to an end just over 12 months ago and so last season was the first back in the Isthmian Premier. Hamlet posted a mid-table finish, but it took until October to get going. Losing six of their opening nine left them in the relegation zone, but then Hamlet went on to taste defeat just four times up to Easter, picking up 14 victories and nine draws. Form dipped at the end, but by then they were well safe.

Manager – Hakan Hayrettin

Over twenty years of managerial experience, Hakan Hayrettin picked up his first piece of silverware in 2003 winning the Essex Senior Cup with Waltham Forest. He remained in the county with Thurrock before guiding Grays Athletic into the Isthmian Premier with a league title in 2013. Hayrettin teamed up with John Still at Luton Town as a coach before heading back into management with Braintree Town. A National South league winner with Maidstone United two years ago, Hayrettin joined Hamlet in March 2023.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 6 / Dulwich Hamlet wins: 3 / Draws: 4

Previous Six Meetings

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)
Dulwich Hamlet 0 – 2 Dartford (28/08/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Dulwich Hamlet (25/01/2020 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 1 Dartford (07/12/2019 – National South)

Next Meetings

Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet – Saturday 14th December 2024
Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford – Saturday 29th March 2025

Statistics

  • Dartford have won four of their last five matches against Dulwich Hamlet (D1)
  • The Darts are unbeaten at home in all competitions versus Hamlet (W4, D3)
  • Dartford have won the last two league games at Champion Hill and are unbeaten in the last three

Match Highlights 2023/2023

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet

Dartford have eight games remaining to secure a playoff place and they can edge closer to their target when they host relegation threatened Dulwich Hamlet this weekend.

Although the Darts are looking for more consistency they are still in a strong position. Occupying second place in the National South with games in hand over the chasing pack, Dartford have recorded just three victories in their last eleven league outings. Under their third manager of the season, Dulwich Hamlet slipped into the drop zone on the weekend even though they picked up a vital point.

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Match Highlights – Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford (08/10/2022) – Dartford FC TV

In March the Darts dropped points against teams battling for survival, losing at Weymouth and drawing against Hungerford Town. This time they will want to get back to winning ways after defeat a week ago. Dartford will be hoping for a repeat of the reverse fixture at Champion Hill in October when they came from behind to win 2-1. Samir Carruthers returned to the team after serving a one match ban that day and made an impact. After Nana Owusu opened the scoring, Dartford managed to find themselves level by the break. Marvin Herschel won a penalty and up stepped Carruthers to equalise. A draw was looming until Charlie Sheringham was introduced, the striker netted a header six minutes from time to win it for the Darts.

Last time Dartford hosted Hamlet it ended in a 1-1 draw, and it was a returning player that put the London side in front. The Darts failed to defend a corner that was headed towards Tyrone Sterling, who shot past Dan Wilks.  The instinctive Jake Robinson rescued a point when he found himself unmarked at the far post, the striker’s initial shot was saved but he headed home the rebound.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet (08/01/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Alan Dowson’s side have had a two week break after beating Farnborough at Princes Park, but they were unable to replicate that result against fellow playoff contenders Chelmsford City on Non-League Day. The Clarets left it late to gain ground on the Darts and move level with Oxford City, who drew at Dulwich Hamlet last weekend.

Connor Essam returned to the lineup in place of Keiran Murtagh and Sam Odaudu made his first start since Boxing Day, taking Jernade Meade’s place. Meade will be available again this weekend after his call up to the Montserrat national team. The new signings didn’t feature with Richard Chin being named on the substitute’s bench, whilst Bobby Dunn and Emmanuel Adebowale were not included in the matchday squad. However, Dowson told Dartford FC TV after the 2-1 loss that Chin and Dunn are likely to be involved against Dulwich Hamlet and Adebowale considered. Dartford were still without Jordan Wynter and Charlie Sheringham, whilst Essam was taken off in the second-half with cramp so should recover in time. Dowson also revealed this week that Tommy Block is not likely to feature this season after suffering a groin injury.

Dartford were undone by two former players and let a lead slip in the final seven minutes. Dowson felt his side created enough chances to win, but acknowledged the midfield needed to do better in possession. Two of those chances fell to Alex Wall in the first half, but the striker was unable to open the scoring. Likewise, Michael Folivi should have had the visitors in front afterwards. Moments later neat play by Carruthers and Jack Smith set up Luke Coulson who scored for a consecutive game. Chelmsford City applied plenty of pressure in the second-half and although Coulson hit the post, the Clarets made that pressure count late on. Ody Alfa hit an unstoppable strike to level and in injury time Giovanni McGregor curled in the winner.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Chelmsford City (25/03/2023) – Dartford FC TV

The Darts will be hoping former players stay out of the headlines on Saturday. Six of Hamlet’s squad have played for Dartford in the past. Kristian Campbell, Sanchez Ming, Danny Mills and George Porter all started in the 2-2 draw against Oxford City, Ronnie Vint was a substitute, whilst Kalvin Kalala has a long-term injury after damaging his cruciate ligament earlier in the season.

  DFC Appearances DFC Goals
Ronnie Vint 202 11
George Porter 37 6
Kristian Campbell 32 1
Danny Mills 26 7
Kalvin Kalala 26 5
Sanchez Ming 14 0

Dulwich Hamlet sold out their home fixture on Non-League Day and rewarded their fans with a point against Oxford City. Manager, Hakan Hayrettin made five changes to the side that lost to champions elect Ebbsfleet United in the previous game. Debuts were handed to loanee David Stephens, who was signed from Boreham Wood and Deon Woodman who has joined on loan from Queens Park Rangers. Goalkeeper Aaron Jones, Andre Blackman and Michael Phillips also returned to the lineup. The first half may have ended goalless, but four goals arrived in an entertaining second-half. Oxford City took the lead through Olly Sanderson with a low shot into the corner. Former Dartford striker, Mills headed in the equaliser before Giovanni Crichlow’s long-range effort deceived the Oxford City goalkeeper. A clever turn and shot from Klaidi Lolos made sure the match ended all square with three minutes remaining.

The first draw under Hayrettin ended a losing streak of two matches. The latest Dulwich Hamlet boss won the National South title with Maidstone United last term, this time he’s attempting to keep Hamlet in the division. It’s been a difficult campaign for Dartford’s opponents with plenty of change in the dugout. In September, Gavin Rose left the club after 14 years in charge, the longest serving manager in Hamlets’ history. One win in the opening seven fixtures and four straight defeats later brought his tenure to an end. In stepped Paul Barnes and despite losing four of his first six league fixtures, Dulwich Hamlet’s improved form towards the tail end of 2022 put them in a better position. However, one point over a ten-game spell left Hamlet looking for another replacement. Hayrettin took charge a month ago and has picked up two wins and a draw in his first six league games in charge.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 5 / Dulwich Hamlet wins: 3 / Draws: 4

Current League Form

Dartford
(WDLDWL)
    Dulwich Hamlet
(WLWLLD)
   
Chelmsford City H 1-2 Oxford City H 2-2
Farnborough H 3-1 Ebbsfleet United A 2-4
Hungerford Town A 1-1 Bath City A 1-2
Weymouth A 1-3 Havant & Waterlooville H 2-1
Oxford City H 0-0 Chelmsford City A 1-5
Slough Town H 1-0 St Albans City H 1-0

Last Six Meetings

Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 2 Dartford (08/10/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (08/01/2022 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 0 – 2 Dartford (28/08/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Dulwich Hamlet (25/01/2020 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 1 Dartford (07/12/2019 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 2 – 0 Dartford (02/03/2019 – National South)

Statistics

  • Dartford are unbeaten at home against Dulwich Hamlet (W3, D3)
  • The Darts have lost just one of the last eight meetings versus the Hamlet (W4, D3)
  • Dartford have won all eight homes games against sides currently in the bottom eleven

On This Day

Lee Noble scored twice as Dartford thrashed Woking 4-1 at Princes Park on this day in 2013. Nathan Collier broke the deadlock from 12 yards but Woking levelled as Jayden Stockley headed in. On the stroke of half-time Noble had the Darts in front and Sheringham added a third in the second-half. Noble completed the rout with an excellent long range free-kick. Famously that season the Darts beat Luton Town at Kenilworth Road. However, Dartford were unable to replicate that result against the Hatters at home just over 12 months later. On April Fools Day in 2014, Mikel Suarez opened the scoring for the Darts and after Kenny Clark was red carded, Luton Town scored twice in the final seven minutes through Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu and Andre Gray. Dartford’s last outing on this day was six years ago against Hemel Hempstead Town. Despite having a man advantage for the majority of the game the Darts let a lead slip twice in a 2-2 draw, Elliot Bradbrook and Luke Wanadio the goalscorers.

Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford

Dartford go back on the road to face some familiar faces this weekend when they make the short journey to Dulwich Hamlet.

The Darts moved into third place last Saturday after collecting a fourth consecutive league victory, their fifth in six outings. Hamlet are transitioning after a change in manager and just two wins in ten National South games.

After an inconsistent start to the campaign, which included five defeats in all competitions, manager Alan Dowson has turned Dartford’s form around to get his side into the playoff places. The latest triumph came at home against a difficult yet struggling Hungerford Town. Marvin Herschel scored his second in three league starts for the club, charging down a clearance from the goalkeeper and passing the ball into an empty net. Alex Wall silenced any critics with his first since re-joining the Darts to seal a 2-0 win with his well struck shot. The third straight home victory means Dartford have maximum points in their last four National South fixtures having also beaten Eastbourne Borough, Hampton and Richmond Borough and Kent rivals Dover Athletic.

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Highlights – Dartford v Hungerford Town (01/10/2022) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dartford coach, Martin Tyler was delighted with the reaction of his players to exiting the F.A Cup early, he spoke to Dartford FC TV and said: “After the Beckenham game we’ve had a few heart to hearts with the players and we’ve won three games. Admittedly all of them have been at home and not by extravagant margins, but it’s been a great response”. The Darts kept a first clean sheet at Princes Park this term and Tyler was keen to single out Jordan Wynter’s move from full back to defensive midfield as the cornerstone to Dartford’s improved defending.

Looking ahead to this weekend Tyler expects a tough challenge at Champion Hill when they face Dulwich Hamlet, he commented: “They are always competitive, they’ve had a change this season after a long period of stability. They’ve always put out competitive teams against us, so we will see what it’s now like. I would expect the same under the new regime, it’s a fine football club”. Midfielder, Samir Carruthers will be available after serving his one match ban for five cautions this season. Charlie Sheringham missed last weekend because of personal matters, so should be available on Saturday. Dan Wilks is recovering from his ankle injury, Sam Odaudu is getting closer to a return, whilst Luke Coulson was substituted against Hungerford Town after picking up an injury.

Over the last few years there have been plenty of connections between Dartford and Dulwich Hamlet. In fact, one of those connections scored in the corresponding fixture last season. Josh Hill smashed in the opening goal at Champion Hill in Dartford’s last visit there, the defender is now part of Hamlet’s squad. The 31-year-old made 66 appearances for the Darts scoring seven goals before moving to SE22. In that 2-0 win for Dartford, Tyrique Hyde scored the other, he also spent time at both clubs during his career to date. At Princes Park last season it was Tyrone Sterling, a former Dart who put Dulwich Hamlet in front. However, the match ended all square after Jake Robinson equalised.

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Highlights – Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford (28/08/2021) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

As well as Hill, former Dartford academy graduate Ronnie Vint has been impressing at Champion Hill. The central defender spent nine years with Dartford’s senior team turning out 202 times, scoring 11 goals. George Porter made 37 appearances over two years contributing to six goals, Kalvin Kalala was also part of last season’s squad netting five goals in 26 appearances. Whilst Danny Mills has been with Hamlet for longer, joining the London based club in 2019 after a loan spell with Dartford in which he scored seven times in 26 appearances. Sanchez Ming takes the list of former players to six, the defender played 13 times under Steve King.

Since the former Dartford contingent signing in the summer, the boss that brought them to Dulwich has left. Gavin Rose’s contract wasn’t extended last month after taking charge of more than 550 games and winning two promotions in his 13 years with the club. His departure came with the club in 21st place after a 3-1 defeat against Tonbridge Angels and fourth loss in a row. After winning on the opening day of the season and drawing the next two, Dulwich Hamlet lost six consecutive matches. The last of those losses saw new interim Head Coach, Paul Barnes take charge of his first league match for the club. Leading up to the defeat at Chippenham Town, Barnes had won two out of two in cup competitions.

Athletic Newham were beaten 5-2 in the London Senior Cup and a 2-1 F.A Cup win over Margate saw Hamlet into the third qualifying round which took place last weekend. Ahead of the cup tie versus Folkestone Invicta, Barnes did manage to record his first league win since taking over by beating newly promoted strugglers Cheshunt. However, his side ended up suffering a F.A Cup exit to the Isthmian Premier League side and last season’s Kent Senior Cup runners up. Former Hamlet man, Ade Yussuf scored the only goal of the game for Folkestone Invicta three minutes into the second half. That came after another ex-Dulwich player Nathan Green was sent off in the first half.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Dulwich Hamlet wins: 3 / Draws: 4

Current League Form

Dartford
(WLWWWW)
    Dulwich Hamlet
(LLLLLW)
   
Hungerford Town H 2-0 Cheshunt A 3-0
Eastbourne Borough H 2-1 Chippenham Town A 1-2
Hampton & Richmond H 2-1 Hemel Hempstead Town H 1-3
Dover Athletic A 3-1 Tonbridge Angels A 1-3
Chippenham Town A 1-2 Welling United H 1-2
Hemel Hempstead Town A 2-0 Eastbourne Borough A 1-2

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 1 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (08/01/2022 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 0 – 2 Dartford (28/08/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Dulwich Hamlet (25/01/2020 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 1 Dartford (07/12/2019 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 2 – 0 Dartford (02/03/2019 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (20/10/2018 – National South)

Statistics

  • The Darts have lost just one of the last six meetings with the Hamlet (W3, D3)
  • After losing on each of their first three visits to Champion Hill, Dartford are unbeaten in their last two there (W1, D1)
  • Dartford have managed a four game winning streak in the league for a second time this calendar year. The Darts recorded five consecutive victories from 29 January to 19 February last season
  • The Darts are on the longest current winning steak in the division, but need another five consecutive victories to match rivals Ebbsfleet United’s nine wins in a row from the start of the campaign.

On This Day

A brace from Duane Ofori-Acheampong rewarded the long travelling Dartford fans who witnessed a 5-0 victory on this day. The Darts beat Truro City down in Cornwall with Keaton Wood, Andy Pugh and Alex Brown also geting their names on the scoresheet. Matthew Godden scored five goals in nine appearances whilst on loan in 2013/14, one of his goals came in the 1-1 draw with Salisbury on this day in 2013. Godden went on to make it in the Football League with Peterborough United and is currently at Coventry City.

Season Preview 2022/2023

Dulwich Hamlet

Splitting the season into thirds demonstrates what a mixed campaign Dulwich Hamlet had last time out. Their opening dozen matches yielded seven victories and three draws, the middle section a mixture of results and then towards the finishing line an eleven-match winless run, halted with a last day of the season win. The drop in form may have cost Hamlet a playoff place, but tenth in the second tier of non-league is their highest league position for just over two decades. Off the field the club continue to build with their average attendance topping the National South.  

2021/2022 Season
National South: 10th
F.A Cup: 2nd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 3rd Round
County Cup: Quarter-Final
Top League Scorer: Danny Mills (13 goals)

Manager – Gavin Rose

The club’s longest serving manager joined Hamlet in August 2009 and in that time, Rose has taken them from the Isthmian Division One South to the National South. There was plenty of playoff heartbreak and even a period away from Champion Hill to contend with. Nine years ago, he guided Dulwich Hamlet to a league title after two playoff attempts. Rose had to endure another couple of playoff failures in the Isthmian Premier League before succeeding at his fifth attempt to take Hamlet up again. He also played for the club during the 2002/2003 season at the same time as being youth team manager.

Summer Transfers

Transfers In Transfers Out
Sam Deadfield (Hampton and Richmond Borough) Jordan Higgs (Dover Athletic)
Kresh Krasniqi (Ebbsfleet United) Tyrone Sterling (Dover Athletic)
Will Wood (Ebbsfleet United) Darren McQueen (Ebbsfleet United)
Josh Hill (Dartford) Jazzi Barnum-Bobb (Chelmsford City)
George Porter (Dartford) Reise Allasani
Kalvin Kalala (Dartford)  
Frankie Raymond (Boreham Wood)  
Joe Osaghae (Charlton Athletic)  
Dan Smith (Eastleigh)  
Nana Owusu (Oxford City)  
Jayden Clarke (Hendon)  

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Dulwich Hamlet wins: 3 / Draws: 4

Previous Matches (last six)

Dartford 1 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (08/01/2022 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 0 – 2 Dartford (28/08/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Dulwich Hamlet (25/01/2020 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 1 Dartford (07/12/2019 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 2 – 0 Dartford (02/03/2019 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (20/10/2018 – National South)

Next Meetings

Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford – 08/10/2022
Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet – 01/04/2023

Statistics

  • Dartford are unbeaten at home against Dulwich Hamlet (W3, D3)
  • The Darts have lost just one of the last six meetings with the Hamlet (W3, D3)
  • After losing on each of their first three visits to Champion Hill, Dartford are unbeaten in their last two there (W1, D1)

Match Highlights – 2021/2022

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Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet

Dartford will want to extend their unbeaten home start in the National South to eight games on the weekend when they host Dulwich Hamlet.

The Darts have the only unbeaten home record in the division and will welcome valuable points after two disappointing Kent derby defeats and a draw against second from bottom Braintree Town on the road. Dulwich Hamlet on the other hand know victory will draw them level with Dartford in the league and a game in hand still to play, as fifth place takes on sixth.

Steve King’s side won the reverse fixture back in August with goals from Josh Hill and former Hamlet midfielder Tyrique Hyde. The 2-0 victory kept Dartford’s perfect start to the campaign with maximum points from their opening three games. The Hamlet included four former Darts in their starting eleven, Jazzi Barnum-Bobb, Tyrone Sterling, Giovanni McGregor and Darren McQueen, whilst Danny Mills was on the bench.

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Highlights of Dartford’s last match against the Hamlet courtesy of Dartford FC TV

It was the second consecutive game in which Dartford beat this weekend’s opponents without conceding. The last time the two sides met at Princes Park, just over two years ago, McQueen scored the only goal of the game against his future employers. Previous home ties include a 2-1 win in October 2018, Jamie Philpot and Charlie Sheringham found the back of the net, and a 1-1 draw back in 2007 with Jay May scoring for the Darts. In the two other meetings, the 1996 F.A Trophy third qualifying round tie ended 0-0 and almost a century ago a friendly was won 3-1 by Dartford. Fortunes reverse when the Darts travel to SE22 with the victory in August their only one.

Dartford began 2022 with a 1-0 defeat at North Kent rivals Ebbsfleet United, leaving the Darts five points off the top with a game in hand. King opted to recall Ronnie Vint for his 200th game for the club, whilst Jordan Wynter and Michael Kedman made way for Josh Clarke and Jernade Meade. Also returning to the starting line up was Jack Jebb after his stunning last minute free-kick against Braintree Town, which earned a 2-2 draw. Danny Leonard was missing with Covid, whilst Josh Hill and Luke Allen remain long term absences through injury.

A second Kent derby loss in a row to start the New Year, after the 4-0 reverse at Maidstone United, left the Darts disappointed, King spoke to Dartford FC TV after the game and commented: “We were the better side in terms of the chances we had, I thought we had the clear cut chances. Ebbsfleet looked pleasing on the eye, good on the ball, their rotations were good, their movement was good, they had good energy, but we didn’t deserve to lose that football match”.

King pointed out that one of the factors between the two sides was the difference in professional status giving their opponents a slight edge, he commented: “We only train for two to three hours a week, it showed for me in athleticism. We defended brilliantly, we changed the shape and to a man we were fantastic. The only real time they cut us open was when they scored”.

Dartford can now look forward to a run of home games starting with Dulwich Hamlet. King added: “We haven’t lost at home this season so it will be nice to try and get some points on the board. But, again you look at the games we have got, Ebbsfleet, Dulwich, Weymouth (in the F.A Trophy), it’s an unforgiving division”.

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Dartford’s last home match against Dulwich Hamlet – Dartford FC TV

Dulwich Hamlet have recorded the same scores as the Darts over the last two games both against teams in a relegation battle, a 2-2 away draw with Tonbridge Angels was followed up by a 1-0 defeat at home to Welling United. A former Hamlet player came back to haunt his old side by netting the decisive goal, Dipo Akinyemi’s 56th minute strike was enough for the Wings. Those setbacks followed Hamlets excellent 5-2 victory over title chasing Ebbsfleet United in which Dulwich Hamlet came from behind twice. Sterling, McQueen and McGregor all scored and Mills grabbed an assist.

Gavin Rose’s side have only lost one game on the road in the National South and that was to Oxford City towards the end of November. The Hamlet have also scored the third most amount of goals in the division so certainly have enough firepower to challenge the Dartford defence. The London based club have had a steady campaign so far with notable wins against Hemel Hempstead Town which ended 6-0 and a pair of 4-3 victories over Hampton and Richmond Borough and St Albans City.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Dulwich Hamlet wins: 3 / Draws: 3

Current League Form

Dartford
(LDLWWD)
    Dulwich Hamlet
(LDWDLW)
   
Ebbsfleet United A 0-1 Welling United H 0-1
Braintree Town A 2-2 Tonbridge Angels A 2-2
Maidstone United A 0-4 Ebbsfleet United H 5-2
Billericay Town H 1-0 Havant & Waterlooville A 2-2
Hemel Hempstead Town A 3-2 Oxford City A 0-2
Oxford City H 0-0 St Albans City A 4-3

Previous Meetings (last six)

Dulwich Hamlet 0 – 2 Dartford (28/08/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Dulwich Hamlet (25/01/2020 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 1 Dartford (07/12/2019 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 2 – 0 Dartford (02/03/2019 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (20/10/2018 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (31/03/2007 – Isthmian Division One South)

Stats

  • Dartford are unbeaten in all five home games against Dulwich Hamlet (W3, D2)
  • The Darts have conceded five at home this season in the National South, the fewest in the division
  • Over the last eight league games Dartford are 15th in the form table and Dulwich Hamlet are fourth

On This Day

Dartford have played just once in the Princes Park era and that was at home against Thurrock in 2011. Lee Noble was welcomed back from his loan spell, but it was former Dart, Matt Bodkin who scored the winner. In the nine post World War two matches on this day, before that 1-0 loss, the Darts had won seven, drew one and lost one. In half of those games the Darts have scored four goals beating Lloyds Sittingbourne (1949), Tonbridge (1966), Worcester City (1972), Redditch United (1977) and an entertaining 4-4 draw with Tunbridge Wells in the Kent League back in 1996.

Dulwich Hamlet v Dartford

Dartford have made an excellent start to their season and next up they will need to overcome several former players to record a maiden victory at Dulwich Hamlet.

The Darts drew in their last visit to Champion Hill but had lost the previous three in south east London. A perfect start this season will give Steve King’s men confidence as they sit top of the National South table after two games. An opening day victory at St Albans City was followed up with a comfortable and dominating display against Slough Town.

Last weekend, the first competitive game in front of home fans since March 2020 ended with Dartford winning 3-0 over the Rebels. Noor Husin gave a masterclass in midfield and his man of the match performance was rewarded with a goal. Dan Roberts impressed again with a key pass for the opening goal and a couple of assists, Ade Azeez scored his second in two games and George Porter got off the mark too.

Azeez tapped the opening goal into the Slough Town net in the first half after a neat move, Roberts’ precise cut back was nudged on by Danny Leonard and Azeez was there to finish. In the second half, Husin picked up Roberts’ rebound, and his quick feet and composure doubled the lead. Unselfish play by Roberts then led to the third when he squared the ball perfectly for Porter to open his goalscoring account. It could have been more, Jack Jebb hit the woodwork from a free-kick when the game was level and a number of saves from Slough Town’s Jonathan North kept the score down for the visitors.

Dartford FC TV caught up with Noor Husin after victory and he was pleased with his teammates, he said: “I thought we were really good, relentless from the first minute and could have had a lot more. I thought everyone was brilliant”, he continued: “Since I’ve come here it’s been one of the best dressing rooms I’ve been in, everyone’s together and whether you’re playing or not everyone is helping each other”.

Manager, Steve King also spoke to BBC Radio Kent after the win, he said: “I thought the boys were outstanding, limited them to very little and I’ve got to say Jonathan North has kept the scoreline down”. Husin’s quality display did not go unnoticed by King, he commented: “He’s a football league player all day long, he’s miles better than a lot of football league players I’ve seen”. King heaped ‘special praise’ on the Afghan international considering the events happening in Afghanistan, he continued: “to still come out and put in a performance like that and score is a credit to him”.

Looking ahead to the next fixtures King remains cautious but confident he added: “It’s only two wins. I’m level-headed enough to know that it could all fall apart. You could lose the next two and suddenly it’s not so clever”. However, the Dartford boss is pleased with the depth of the squad, the pace, athleticism, and the fact the ‘whole team is comfortable on the ball’. King feels he is now able to rotate players in the starting eleven without losing the level of performance he expects.

Dulwich Hamlet have many familiar faces in their ranks and three of them were handed their debuts on the opening day of the season. Striker, Danny Mills started his third season at Champion Hill and he scored against Chippenham Town in the 1-1 draw. The former Dart, who also enjoyed a spell at Whitehawk under Steve King was assisted by Darren McQueen, who was joint top scorer in the National South during the 2019/2020 campaign when he netted 18 times for Dartford. Chippenham Town equalised with a penalty conceded by another former Dart, Tyrone Sterling. The F.A Trophy finalist with Concord Rangers signed for Hamlet in the summer as did Jazzi Barnum-Bobb who left Princes Park after 19 appearances last term. Dulwich Hamlet also have Sanchez Ming and Giovanni McGregor in their squad.

It’s been a difficult start for the Londoners, who have been without their manager Gavin Rose after he contracted Covid-19 and spent a short time in hospital. So Junior Kadi, another familiar face to Dartford fans has been part of the coaching staff looking after the first team. Kadi was part of Dartford’s Isthmian Division One North title winning team making 28 appearances and scoring six goals.

Due to face each other three times last season, none of the fixtures took place as the campaign was curtailed. The Darts were scheduled to play Dulwich Hamlet twice in the league and in the London Senior Cup. Since the last meeting at Champion Hill in December 2019, Tyrique Hyde played against Dulwich Hamlet, joined them at the end of the season and returned to Dartford this summer. Also representing the Darts in the last visit to Champion Hill was McQueen, but it was his strike partner Elliott Romain who netted a penalty to cancel out Christian Smith’s free kick in a 1-1 draw. In the return fixture McQueen scored the only goal of the game as the Darts won 1-0 a month later.

Dulwich Hamlet have yet to taste a home defeat against the Darts winning 3-1 in a F.A Trophy third qualifying replay in 1996, then winning again in 2006 beating Dartford 3-2 in the Isthmian Division One South. In March 2019, Luke Wanadio was lining up against the Darts and part of the Hamlet side that won 2-0 in the National South, a third consecutive home victory for Dulwich Hamlet in this fixture. The draw six months later was Dartford’s first point gained from their visits to Champion Hill.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Dulwich Hamlet wins: 3 / Draws: 3

Prevous Meetings (last six)

Dartford 1 – 0 Dulwich Hamlet (25/01/2020 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 1 – 1 Dartford (07/12/2019 – National South)
Dulwich Hamlet 2 – 0 Dartford (02/03/2019 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (20/10/2018 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Dulwich Hamlet (31/03/2007 – Isthmian Division One South)
Dulwich Hamlet 3 – 2 Dartford (19/09/2006 – Isthmian Division One South)

Stats

The Darts have never beaten Dulwich Hamlet in consecutive games, a win on the weekend will make it a first after winning the last meeting 1-0 at Princes Park.

Josh Hill made his 50th start for the Darts against Slough Town last weekend

Victory on Saturday will be Dartford’s best start to a campaign since they won their opening three fixtures in 2011/2012. The season the Darts went on to win promotion to the National League.

On This Day

After 18 years apart in the league more than 2700 fans turned up at Princes Park to watch Dartford draw 1-1 with rivals Ebbsfleet United in 2010. Michael West gave Fleet the lead, but Charlie Sheringham’s penalty made sure the points were shared. The last fixture on this day seven years later ended in a 1-0 home loss to East Thurrock United.

The last away day on 28 August was in 2006 when the Darts went to Whyteleafe and won 3-1, Jay May netted a brace and Brendon Cass the other in the Isthmian Division One South. Dartford have only won five of their 21 games on this day, which includes a 2-1 victory over Merthyr Tydfil in the Southern League Challenge Match in 1989.