Tag: Isthmian Premier (Page 2 of 7)

Dartford v Wingate and Finchley

November 7, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 1 Comment

Dartford begin this weekend in the playoff places and host an in-form Wingate and Finchley on Saturday.

The Darts have won four in a row to extend their unbeaten league run to 11 matches. Two Kent derby victories over the last fortnight have pushed Adrian Pennock’s side into the top five.

Wingate and Finchley picked up just one point in their opening six games, but over the last month the Blues have climbed out of the relegation zone after an unbeaten run of six games in the Isthmian Premier.

Double Derby Delight

Momentum is building for Dartford which has coincided with a defence that has tightened up and a front three that has clicked. After putting three past Whitehawk and scoring four against Potters Bar Town on home soil, the Darts recorded a first win and clean sheet on the road this term when they beat Cray Wanderers by two.

A week later Pennock stuck with the same starting lineup for the next Kent derby against Welling United, but his side were shell shocked early on. The Darts went a goal down inside the opening minutes after Ruben Shakpoke hit a shot in off the post. Dartford’s best first half chances came through George Whitefield, who had one cleared off the line and another that hit the post. Eddie Dsane also saw his effort excellently saved.

The in-form striker didn’t have to wait long in the second half. Dsane grabbed a quick-fire brace to make it six goals in his last three appearances. First, he finished to level after good work from Olly Box, then he hit a low drive to put the hosts in front. The three points were sealed once Box curled a third into the top corner.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

A Wakeup Call

Last season the second half at home to Wingate and Finchley was arguably a turning point in Dartford’s season. Despite ending in defeat, the Darts showed they had the battling spirit and character that would help them go on an impressive unbeaten run equalling a club record of 21 league games.

That fixture back in October 2024 began disastrously when the visitors went three up in the opening 21 minutes. Ben Frempah lined up for the Blues that day and he scored as well as Andronicos Georgiou, who netted a brace. As the Darts hit a low point it also served as a wakeup call. Dartford fought back with two second half goals from Box and Ade Yussuf.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The return fixture in January saw roles reversed as it was Dartford’s turn to build up a lead with goals from George Whitefield and a spot kick from Sami Carruthers. The Blues pulled one back through Camilo Restrepo but couldn’t find an equaliser.

Blues Shock Leaders

Wingate and Finchley stunned league leaders Brentwood Town last weekend with a brilliant 5-0 victory in Essex. Whilst the Darts halted Brentwood Town’s perfect home start four weeks ago, Wingate and Finchley went one better by becoming the first side to beat the early pacesetters on their own patch.

Two goals in the opening eight minutes set the North London side on their way. Ryan Lowe and Kyron Horsley-McKay made sure the visitors got off to a fast start and Restrepo made it three before half-time. An early second-half goal from Gianluca Botti put the game beyond doubt and Romeo Akinola added some extra gloss in the final stages.

Late, Late Show

Ahmet Rifat’s side were brought back down to earth on Tuesday night against bottom side Canvey Island. In a tight contest it took until eight minutes from time for Wingate and Finchley to go in front with a goal from Loic Hernandez. However, the Gulls managed a late leveller through Elliott Ronto to share the points. The Blues still gained a couple of places in the league table moving up to sixteenth.

Manager’s View

Pennock was pleased with the way his side turned Saturday’s game around, he told Dartford FC TV his players needed to earn the right to play good football, he said: “We had a couple of good chances in the first half and Jonny made a really good save with his feet. I just wanted us to be more on the ball and people wanting the ball in the second half and that’s what we done”.

The Darts fans were rewarded in the end, the Dartford boss added: “The second half of football was very pleasing to watch. That was one for the fans, they’ve really enjoyed that as well, but we’re not getting too carried away, but it’s obviously nice to win a derby”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Team News

Former Wingate and Finchley defender, Ben Frempah last featured as a substitute for the Darts in the win over Whitehawk. The defender hasn’t been involved in the last two matchday squads. Sam Odaudu has been missing through injury since that Whitehawk game. Dean Nayler and Sammie McLeod have been long term absentees. Ikechi Eze has gone out on loan to Potters Bar Town and Albie O’Mara- Knapp has had his loan spell extended at Erith Town.

Current League Form

Dartford (LDWWWW)			Wingate & Finchley (DWWLWD)
Welling United	H	3-1	Canvey Island	A	1-1
Cray Wanderers	A	2-0	Brentwood Town	A	5-0
Potters Bar Town	H	4-1	Cheshunt (FAT)	A	0-1
Whitehawk	H	3-0	Cheshunt	A	3-2
Brentwood Town	A	1-1	Hashtag United	A	1-0
Hadley (FAT)	A	1-2	Ramsgate	A	1-1

FAT – F.A Trophy

Head to Head

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

Previous Meetings

Wingate and Finchley 1 – 2 Dartford (18/01/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 2 – 3 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)

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)
If selected Sam Okoye will make his 50th start for Dartford
Dartford’s eight unbeaten home games from the start of the season is their longest unbeaten home start since 2021 (17 games)
The Darts have won three league games in a row at Princes Park. A fourth consecutive home league victory will equal Adrian Pennock’s best since taking over as boss.

On This Day

Dartford reached the second round of the F.A Cup on this day in 1961 and 2014. The most recent first round tie ended up with seven goals as the Darts beat Bromley 4-3 at Hayes Lane. Louis Dennis started the goal action for the hosts before Danny Harris equalised. Tony Burman’s side took the lead twice through Ryan Hayes and Elliot Bradbrook, but the Ravens hit back on both occasions when Moses Ademola and then Danny Waldren scored. The match winner turned out to be Tom Bradbrook who nodded home with nine minutes to go to help the Darts into the second round for the first time in 30 years.

In 1961, the Darts shocked Football League opponents Exeter City of Division Four. Days earlier Dartford took the Grecians to a replay after coming back from 3-1 down to draw 3-3. Bob Taylor scored a brace and Ray White got the other goal that day. The replay back at Watling Street on 8 November finished with the Darts winning 2-1, Jimmy Fletcher netted one and Taylor scored again.

Dartford v Welling United

October 31, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Playoff chasing Dartford have a second Kent derby in a week when they host relegation battling Welling United this weekend.

A run of ten league games unbeaten and three wins on the spin has propelled the Darts up the table. Adrian Pennock’s side have picked up form and have yet to taste defeat at Princes Park in the Isthmian Premier this season.

Welling United have made a managerial change already after a struggling start that has the Wings down in the bottom four.

Playoff Push

The Darts had the opportunity to move into the playoff places with just three Isthmian Premier fixtures taking place last weekend and they took that chance to go fifth.

Last weekend’s Kent derby at high flying Cray Wanderers ended in another Dartford triumph following up comfortable wins against Whitehawk and Potters Bar Town.

Dsane Man

Eddie Dsane was on target again to set the Darts on their way at Flamingo Park last Saturday. The striker followed up the hat-trick against Potters Bar Town with the opener at Cray Wanderers.

Pennock made just one change bringing in George Whitefield. A closely fought first half ended with the Darts in front. Whitefield made an excellent block before clearing the ball away to turn defence into attack. Olly Box set up Dsane and the striker calmly rolled the ball home for his fourth goal in two games.

Wands boss, Tim O’Shea made a triple change at the break for the hosts and another early substitution in the second half. Those adjustments helped Cray Wanderers put the Darts under pressure, then against the run of play Callum Jones doubled Dartford’s lead.

Off the Mark on the Road

A first away win in all competitions this season moved the Darts to within a point of Cray Wanderers. Jonny Henly also put in a solid performance keeping his maiden clean sheet on the road. The goalkeeper will hope to add another one against his former side this weekend. It was also Dartford’s first away clean sheet in ten attempts going back to April last term. The

Honours Even

Over the past two seasons both sides have dropped into the Isthmian Premier, so the last meetings happened during the 2023/2024 campaign. Whilst Dartford picked up four league points from the Wings, Welling United knocked the Darts out of the F.A Cup.

The National South fixture at Princes Park ended all square. The Darts went ahead when Luke Coulson volleyed Paul Rooney’s cross. With minutes left of the Kent derby, Welling United salvaged a point in the 97th minute when Ike Orji’s cross went in off Moussa Diarra.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dartford were triumphant though at Park View Road on Boxing Day 2023. In a poor first half there wasn’t much between the two sides, the hosts just about the better team. However, Dartford approached the second-half with more energy and were rewarded just before the hour. George Alexander was put through on goal, but his effort was saved. Richard Chin kept pace and he stroked home the rebound into an empty net.

Earlier that season Antony Papadopoulos upstaged Lewis Manor to send Welling United into the next round of the F.A Cup. Manor scored a brace to put Dartford in front twice, but Papadopoulos scored a hat-trick.

Mart-in, Mart-out

Welling United are already on their second manager this season following relegation last term. Lee Martin was named boss over the summer and lasted just ten league games. Leaving the Wings fourth from bottom with two wins and eight defeats, the Kent side decided to make an early change.

Interim manager Rod Stringer has been at helm for just under a month and so far the former Chelmsford City and Braintree Town boss has yet to manage his team in front of a home crowd. This weekend’s fixture at Princes Park will be Welling United’s ninth match in a row on the road, Stringer has been in the Wings dugout for the previous six.

League Priority

Last weekend Stringer came up against his former team Brentwood Town in the F.A Trophy first round. The Isthmian Premier leaders went through with a 3-0 victory to put Welling United out of their third cup competition since the interim boss took charge.

So now Welling United can put all their focus on remaining in the division. With just three wins so far, the Wings have lost four of their last five league outings. Their latest defeat was at St Albans City after they had claimed maximum points away at Ramsgate.

New Signings and Former Darts

In his second spell with the club, Stringer has already made some moves to strengthen the team. Ex-Dartford midfielder Luke Allen was signed up after leaving the Cray Wanderers. Allen made 123 appearances for the Darts and scored 15 goals. He joins former academy graduates John Ufuah and Femi Akinwande who were already at the club. Akinwande had two spells with Dartford appearing five times. John Ufuah made two substitute appearances.

As well as Allen arriving at Park View Road, Stringer has signed full back Marcel McIntosh from Lewes, brought back striker Josh Redfearn, welcomed Jack Thomas from Royston Town and used the loan market to bring in Harry Clout from Portsmouth and Leo Young from AFC Wimbledon.

Assistant Manager’s View

Roland Edge was more than pleased with Dartford’s performance at Flamingo Park, he told Dartford FC TV after the game: “Cray are a very good side this year, they’ve held most of the teams at the top. We knew we were in for a tough game, but I thought we were exceptional”.

After a clean sheet, Edge also praised goalkeeper Jonny Henly and the defence, he added: “When he was called upon he was fantastic and the back four were so solid”.

Edge doesn’t see any reason why the Darts can’t push forwards and increase their unbeaten run, but he’s not taking Welling United lightly, he said: “Welling are a good side. Everyone needs the rub of the green sometimes, I’ve watched their highlights and they have been unfortunate in some of the games”, he continued: “We know what we’re up against with it being a derby, but we’ve just got to stay professional and get the job done”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Team News

Denzelle Olopade and Sam Odaudu were both out of the matchday squad last weekend with injury. Long term absentees, Dean Nayler and Sammie McLeod have yet to feature this season. Academy graduate, Joseph Kpaka has left the Darts and has joined Margate.

Current League Form

Dartford (DLDWWW)			Welling United (WLWLLL)
Cray Wanderers	A	2-0	Brentwood Town (FAT)	A	0-3
Potters Bar Town	H	4-1	Cray Valley PM (LSC)	A	1-2
Whitehawk	H	3-0	St Albans City	A	1-2
Brentwood Town	A	1-1	Ramsgate	A	2-1
Hadley (FAT)	A	1-2	VCD Athletic (KSC)	A	2-3
Burgess Hill Town	H	3-3	Royston Town (FAT)	A	3-0

FAT – F.A Trophy / KSC – Kent Senior Cup / LSC – London Senior Cup

Head to Head

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

Previous 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

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
Dartford have won three consecutive games for the first time since March.

On This Day

Three years to the day Dartford thrashed Welling United 5-1 in the National South at Princes Park. Pierre Fonkeu, Davide Rodari and Maxwell Statham had the Darts three up before the interval. Ade Azeez pulled a goal back for the Wings before Jack Smith and Luke Coulson sealed an emphatic win.

In 2008, Cody McDonald scored a Princes Park hat-trick in the F.A Trophy second qualifying round. However, Oxford City still forced the tie into a replay after a 3-3 draw. In 1975 the Darts were on their way to Wembley in the F.A Cup, only it was a fourth qualifying round tie against Wembley. A 1-0 victory put the Darts into the first round proper where they went out to Bishop’s Stortford.

Cray Wanderers v Dartford

October 23, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford have a Kent derby on the road when they face Cray Wanderers this weekend.

Unbeaten in nine league games, the Darts are still looking for their first away win of the season. Adrian Pennock’s side moved up to sixth last time out.

Fourth place Cray Wanderers have not tasted league defeat in eight and only leaders Brentwood Town have beaten the Wands at Flamingo Park in the Isthmian Premier. Tim O’Shea’s team picked up another draw on Tuesday night.

Hat-Trick Eddie

Eddie Dsane took home the match ball on Saturday with a hat-trick in a 4-1 win for the Darts. The forward moved on to ten goals in 14 appearances this season.

Sam Smith returned to the starting lineup and Michael Olarewaju made his first league start since his red card at St Albans City back in August. Sam Odaudu and George Whitefield weren’t in the squad, but Dan Smith returned on the substitute’s bench.

Dartford came from behind for the fourth time this season to claim points. Potters Bar Town took the lead on nine minutes, Brandon Adams fired low beyond Jonny Henly to put the visitors in front. The equaliser came shortly after when Dsane won a penalty and scored to equalise. He added a second four minutes later from close range after good work by Samir Carruthers and Callum Jones. A third arrived just before half time with a well taken volley by Joe Tennent, his first goal for the Darts. Dsane completed his second hat-trick of the campaign two minutes into the second-half to secure back to back Dartford wins for the first time this season.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

So Close Yet So Far

Last season saw the Darts visit Flamingo Park for the first time in a roller coaster of a match. The Easter Monday fixture against Cray Wanderers had a huge impact on the title race. At the start of the day Dartford had a two point lead and for eight minutes Pennock’s side were on the verge of automatic promotion back to the National South.

Callum Jones found himself on the end of a long Sam Odaudu throw to put the Darts in the driving seat. However the hosts threw a spanner in the works when Frankie Raymond levelled from the spot. The Wands edged ahead after Lateef Adaja scored. Dartford pushed for an equaliser and got it through Denzelle Olopade. There was still time for Michael Olarewaju to get sent off and Eddie Dsane to hit the crossbar. The 2-2 draw left the Darts in third place level on points with the top two, but with an inferior goal difference going into the final day of the season.

Box-ing Day

The reverse fixture was played over the festive period four months earlier with Olly Box netting a brace on Boxing Day.

After half an hour Josh Williams put Cray Wanderers in front. In the second-half Box turned the game around with a pair of delightful goals either side of the hour mark. First, he smashed home an equaliser and four minutes later he cut inside and found the top corner to secure a 2-1 home victory.

Skipper Returns

Captained by former Dartford skipper Tom Bonner, Cray Wanderers have made a decent start to their league campaign. Bonner’s leadership and experience on the field helped the Darts win the National South playoffs and two Kent Senior Cups across his ten seasons and 456 appearances for the club. He missed last weekend’s entertaining draw with Chatham Town through suspension after picking up two yellow cards in the previous game against Dulwich Hamlet.

Another former Dart in the Wands squad is Chris Dickson. Now 40 years old he played a part in Horsham’s title winning team last term. The striker scored three goals in eight games during a loan spell for Dartford in the 2020/2021 season. Going the other way, Ben Frempah used to play for Cray Wanderers spending part of the 2013/2014 campaign with the Wands before a move to Leicester City.

The Drawing Wands

Cray Wanderers may be unbeaten in eight league matches, but like the Darts they have had their fair share of draws. Not only have they finished level in their previous three fixtures, they have drawn six in their last eight league outings.

On Tuesday night the Wands came so close to getting maximum points, leading St Albans City in the closing stages. Kareem Isiaka opened the scoring at Flamingo Park a minute into the second half. However three minutes into stoppage time George Sippetts equalised for the visitors.

Last weekend Cray Wanderers were involved in a 3-3 draw against Chatham Town, who sit a place above the Wands in the standings. Isiaka gave the hosts an early lead, but Chatham Town were in front by the break. Cray Wanderers were quick out of the blocks in the second half levelling through Alex Hernandez. The Chats looked as though they had won it with two minutes to go, but Ashley Nzala earned a point in injury time.

The trio of draws started at Dulwich Hamlet, the side currently sandwiched between the Darts and the Wands. Hernandez cancelled out Nyren Clunis’ opener.

A Year of Progress

This time last year Cray Wanderers were rock bottom with six points from their opening ten games. Although former manager Neil Smith improved results and pushed the Wands up the table, O’Shea took charge for the final seven games to secure a top ten finish and earn the manager’s job on a permanent basis.

Assistant Manager’s View

Roland Edge is seeing the Darts make progress this season and that’s just as important to him than consecutive wins, he told Dartford FC TV after the Potters Bar Town victory: “Obviously you always want back to back wins, you want to go on a lovely run like we did last year, but that doesn’t always happen. The pleasing thing for me is we’re getting better in each game”, he added: “We’re getting harder to break down, people are starting to understand what people are going to do when they are on the ball. They are buying into it as a group and you need to be a squad to get the job done”.

The assistant manager rates Cray Wanderers, but looking forward to this weekend’s Kent derby Edge wants the Darts to concentrate on what they do well, he commented: “They’re a good side, they have started brilliantly. They know what they are doing, they have got a good manager”, he continued: “We’ve just got to focus on ourselves a lot really and perfect our own game and we’ll find out where we are. They’ve started well, we’re starting to get together and make a climb. I hope we can do it on the weekend”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Team News

Denzelle Olopade, Sam Odaudu and George Whitefield were all out of the matchday squad last weekend with injury. Long term absentees, Dean Nayler and Sammie McLeod have yet to feature this season.

Current League Form

Dartford (WDLDWW)			Cray Wanderers (WDLDWW)
Potters Bar Town	H	4-1	St Albans City	H	1-1
Whitehawk	H	3-0	Chatham Town	A	3-3
Brentwood Town	A	1-1	Dulwich Hamlet	A	1-1
Hadley (FAT)	A	1-2	AFC Wimbledon (LSC)	H	4-5
Burgess Hill Town	H	3-3	Bishop’s Stortford (FAT)	A	0-4
Cheshunt	H	2-0	Dulwich Hamlet	H	4-2

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 37 / Cray Wanderers wins: 21 / Draws: 12

Previous Meetings

Cray Wanderers 2 – 2 Dartford (21/04/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 2 – 1 Cray Wanderers (26/12/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Cray Wanderers 1 – 2 Dartford (16/04/2024 – London Senior Cup)
Cray Wanderers 1 – 3 Dartford (18/12/2021 – F.A Trophy)
Cray Wanderers 4 – 2 Dartford (20/09/2017 – Kent Senior Cup)
Cray Wanderers 1 – 2 Dartford (05/10/2016 – Kent Senior Cup)

Statistics

In the league Dartford have lost just once against Cray Wanderers in the last 21 outings (W15, D5)
The Darts have won 18 of the last 23 away matches against Cray Wanderers in all competitions (D2, L3)
Dartford have drawn their last three away league games. The Darts last drew four in a row on the road in the Kent League back in April 1995.
At home, only Dartford have scored more than Cray Wanderers and only Potters Bar Town have conceded more than the Wands

On This Day

Dartford are unbeaten in their last 11 league games on this day, a run that started back in 1969 when they beat Cambridge City 5-0 in the Southern League First Division. Following that win, the Darts drew six in a row up until 2008, when they defeated Tooting and Mitcham United. Cody McDonald and Rob Haworth netted for Dartford in the Isthmian Premier away win.

The next three fixtures on this day have also been on the road. In 2011 Dartford crossed the river and cruised past Thurrock with a 3-0 National South triumph. Jacob Erskine, James Rogers and Jack Pallen scored the goals. Fast forward ten years and the Darts held Chelmsford City to a goalless draw. The last outing on this day ended with a 2-1 victory over Slough Town. After falling behind, Charlie Sheringham and Pierre Fonkeu scored to complete a comeback win.

Dartford v Potters Bar Town

October 17, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford are back in action at Princes Park this weekend when they host Potters Bar Town.

The Darts go into Saturday’s fixture unbeaten at home in the Isthmian Premier. They could extend that run to eight matches and in the process they will also move onto eight undefeated in the league.

Potters Bar Town will be coming to Kent hoping to spoil Dartford’s form. Although the Scholars picked up a much needed win on the weekend, they are currently third from bottom.

Squad Changes

Dartford became the first side on the road to take a point from league leaders Brentwood Town last weekend. On Tuesday night they followed up that draw with a home victory against Whitehawk.

Adrian Pennock has stated his side need to turn draws into wins and to help the Darts achieve that he has made some changes to the squad. Jacob Bland and Dan Carter made their first appearances at Princes Park in midweek. Ahead of the Whitehawk game the Dartford boss also announced the departure of Gabe Campbell. Whilst Luther Williams and Hugo Taylor have gone out on loan to Burgess Hill Town and Hythe Town respectively.

Box-ing Clever

Olly Box was back in the side on Tuesday night after serving his one game ban. The forward continued his excellent goalscoring form with a brace and an assist.

Box once again showed his worth to the side taking his tally in his last four appearances to five goals. In the first half Box fired into the top corner and after the break he curled in number two. The tricky forward then unselfishly turned provider when he set up Callum Jones for the third. To cap off a good team performance, the defence kept a second clean sheet of the campaign.

Dartford’s biggest victory of the season moved them into seventh place and two points shy of the playoff places. For the first time this season, the Darts have also moved into a positive goal difference.

Scholars School the Darts

Potters Bar Town were the first team to beat the Darts last season when they came away from Princes Park with a 1-0 win. Eddie Dsane came on as a substitute that day to make his Dartford debut, but it was Steve Cawley who turned out to be the match winner for the visitors. What made the victory more remarkable for the Scholars is that they lost 8-0 just days before.

In the reverse fixture the Darts picked up an away point despite having Duane Ofori-Acheampong sent off. The striker was dismissed for a second yellow card, but Dartford went in front through a Samir Carruthers penalty. The hosts levelled when Brandon Adams made it 1-1.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Struggling Scholars Get Win

Last time out Potters Bar Town recorded their first home win in the league beating bottom side Canvey Island, to go seven points clear of the Gulls. However the Islanders clawed back the deficit with a shock midweek win over Brentwood Town. Brandon Adams scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory, the Scholars first win since early September when they beat Chichester City 3-1 on the road.

Max Mitchell’s side have only avoided defeat in two other Isthmian Premier games, drawing with Hashtag United in the opening week of the season and against Wingate and Finchley on Bank Holiday August.

Manager’s View

Dartford have made a ‘sticky start’ according to Pennock, so he dedicated Tuesday’s win to the fans. The Darts boss was delighted with the result and the way his team played, he spoke to Dartford FC TV and said: “I thought we were fantastic from start to finish. We controlled the game, played some really good football and scored three very good goals. It was just a very good team performance from everybody in the squad”.

Team News

Denzelle Olopade and Sam Odaudu will be assessed. Olopade picked up a hamstring issue against Brentwood Town and Sam Odaudu came off injured versus Whitehawk. Dan Smith was unavailable in midweek due to a family bereavement, but the striker will be available this weekend. Long term absentees, Dean Nayler and Sammie McLeod have still yet to feature this season.

Current League Form

Dartford (DDWDDW)			Potters Bar Town (DWLLLW)
Whitehawk	H	3-0	Canvey Island	H	1-0
Brentwood Town	A	1-1	Cray Valley (PM)	H	2-3
Burgess Hill Town	H	3-3	Ramsgate	A	1-2
Cheshunt	H	2-0	St Albans City	H	2-4
Aveley	A	1-1	Chichester City	A	3-1
Canvey Island	H	2-2	Wingate and Finchley	H	3-3

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)

Statistics

Dartford are winless in three games against Potters Bar Town (D2, L1)
The Darts have won one of the three home games versus the Scholars (L2)
Olly Box has scored in every league game at home this season (8 goals in 6 games)
Samir Carruthers made his 100th appearance for the club on Tuesday night (78 starts, 22 substitute appearances and 23 goals)

On This Day

Dartford are unbeaten in their last four matches on this day all at home. Alex Wall scored the only goal against Tooting and Mitcham United in 2022 to send the Darts into the next round of the London Senior Cup. An equaliser from Andy Pugh secured a 1-1 draw with Aldershot Town in the National League 11 years ago.

Twice the Darts progressed to the F.A Trophy second qualifying round on this day. In 2008, Rob Haworth and Jamie Coyle helped Dartford get past Harlow Town in a 2-1 win. Three years earlier the Darts came from behind twice to defeat rivals Dover Athletic 3-2 in a replay, Steve Hafner scoring a wonderful winner.

In 1986 Dartford racked up seven without reply in the Southern Premier League when they thrashed Redditch United.

Dartford v Whitehawk

October 13, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford can move above Whitehawk with a win on Tuesday night at Princes Park.

Unbeaten at home in the league this season and in their last seven Isthmian Premier outings, the Darts can edge in front of the Hawks on goal difference should they pick up maximum points. In fact Adrian Pennock’s side could finish the evening as high as seventh.

The Hawks will be aiming to break their five game losing streak against Dartford. Victory in Kent could take the Sussex club into the playoff places, a vast improvement to their form last season.

A Point at the Leaders

Pennock’s side will have gained confidence after coming home with a point at the league leaders on the weekend. Another draw for Dartford brought an end to Brentwood Town’s eight game winning streak and 100% home record in the league.

New signing Jacob Bland made his debut, whilst Leyton Orient loanee Dan Carter was named on the bench and featured later on for his first appearance. Samir Carruthers returned to the starting lineup and Ben Frempah was back in the squad.

Pennock was forced into an early substitution with Denzelle Olopade departing the action. The Darts went into the break goalless against the league leaders.

Carruthers made an impact by opening the scoring direct from a free kick ten minutes into the second half, the midfielder’s first goal of the season. Brentwood Town hit back equalising through Charlee Hughes. Dartford have now drawn five of their last six league matches.

Goal of Last Season

Former captain Josh Hill scored Dartford’s goal of the season against Whitehawk back in January. The defender unleashed an unstoppable long range effort to open the scoring at Princes Park. Callum Jones doubled the lead before Josh Nandhra pulled a goal back for the visitors. Maximum points were secured late on when Carruthers won a penalty and scored the spot kick. Eddie Dsane added a fourth with a fine solo effort and finish.

The Darts completed a double over the Sussex side in the reverse fixture in April. Pennock’s side were deep in a title race and after dropping points in the previous game were under pressure to secure victory. Olly Box came off the bench to score the only goal of the game.

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Match highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Hawks Swoop on Robins

On the weekend, Whitehawk picked up their first win in the Isthmian Premier since Bank Holiday August. Like the Darts, the Hawks have only lost twice in the league. However, the Sussex side have picked up victories, this time at home against Carshalton Athletic.

Whitehawk were handed a great opportunity to take the lead when Noah Nzuzi conceded a penalty in his first start for the Robins. Charlie Lambert scored from the spot despite the efforts of former Dartford goalkeeper, Matt Kerbey. The Hawks doubled the lead when substitute Harry Bridle finished one-on-one with the keeper.

A Positive Return

This time last year the Hawks were down in seventeenth and a fortnight later they parted ways with their manager, Ross McNeilly. Almost 12 months on from the start of his second spell as boss, Shaun Saunders has improved Whitehawk’s fortunes.

Despite an opening day defeat to Isthmian South East champions Ramsgate and a goalless draw at home to Chichester City, the Hawks went on to win three in a row. In that run they ended early pacesetters Dulwich Hamlet’s perfect record.

September began with a loss at Folkestone Invicta, but since then the Hawks are three unbeaten, drawing with St Albans City and Hashtag United prior to a win on the weekend.

Manager’s View

Pennock called Saturday’s draw a ‘proper team performance’ and felt his team were braver on the ball, something he had been asking his players to do. The Dartford boss praised debutantes Jacob Bland and Dan Carter, he spoke to www.dartfordfc.com and said: “I thought Jacob Bland did really well. He always wants the ball. His work-rate is phenomenal and he gets in some good spaces. I thought it was a very good debut”, he added: “And young Dan came on and did really well. He looked bright and comfortable on the ball”.

After getting through the first two months of the season, dealing with injuries and suspensions, Pennock has had time to review the squad and is ready to make changes, and his players know that, he commented: “They know we mean business and there are some other changes coming”, he continued: “It’s great to have that strength and depth there now. We want proper competition for places”.

The Darts find themselves on an unbeaten run, but not racking up the points at the rate they would like. Without a defeat at Princes Park in the league, Pennock wants to make that advantage count, he said: “Now we have two important home games coming up and we want to build from here and turn some draws into wins and keep moving up the table”.

Team News

Olly Box returns from suspension. Denzelle Olopade will be assessed after coming off early on the weekend with a hamstring issue. Dean Nayler and Sammie McLeod remain sidelined with injury.

Current League Form

Dartford (DDDWDD)			Whitehawk (WWLDDW)
Brentwood Town	A	1-1	Carshalton Athletic	H	2-0
Burgess Hill Town	H	3-3	Hashtag United	A	1-1
Cheshunt	H	2-0	St Albans City	H	1-1
Aveley	A	1-1	Folkestone Invicta	A	1-4
Canvey Island	H	2-2	Dulwich Hamlet	H	1-0
Ramsgate	A	4-4	Wingate & Finchley	A	1-0

Head to Head

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

Previous 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)

Statistics

Dartford have won their last five games against Whitehawk
The Darts have won their last three home games versus the Hawks
Dartford have scored three or more goals in four of the last five matches against Whitehawk

On This Day

Dartford qualified for the F.A Cup first round on this day in 2017. Alfie Pavey scored an early goal to win the tie versus Burgess Hill Town. The Darts went out in the next round when they came up against League Two side Swindon Town.

Two years ago, the Darts were on the end of a seven goal thriller when they lost 4-3 at Hampton and Richmond Borough. Dartford’s last home match on this day was back in 2006 when Richard Avery, Anthony Hogg and Jay May scored in a 3-1 win over Godalming Town in the Isthmian Division One South.

Brentwood Town v Dartford

October 10, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford are up against newly promoted and surprise league leaders Brentwood Town this weekend in the Isthmian Premier.

The Darts face a tough task if they want to record their first win on the road this season. Adrian Pennock’s side will need to end the Blues perfect home start and eight game winning streak in the league.

Isthmian Division One Division One North champions Brentwood Town are top of the standings again. After a draw on the opening day no one in the division has been able to stop Keith Rowland’s team in their tracks. The Essex club are guaranteed to remain in pole position this weekend regardless of the result.

Another Cup Exit

For the second time in four seasons Dartford have exited the F.A Trophy, F.A Cup and Kent Senior Cup at the first hurdle. The Darts are now under pressure to pick up results after their disappointing trophy defeat to Hadley. Olly Box continued his good goalscoring form with an early strike making it three goals in his last three appearances. Even though injuries within the squad have cleared up, Michael Olarewaju and Dan Smith made their first starts since August, Dartford still let a lead slip. Hadley turned the tie on its head to become the fourth team from a lower division to knock the Darts out of the competition in the last six years.

Too Many Draws

Only four sides in the Isthmian Premier League have lost fewer matches than Dartford. The problem is those sides are in the top four and the Darts are down in thirteenth. Drawing over half of their league games has contributed to this season’s frustration which has seen the Darts post just two wins on the board, both at Princes Park.

Burgess Hill Town were the latest club to hold back Pennock’s side having come from behind twice. Box and Callum Jones got Dartford off to a great start and the performance in the first half deservedly had the home side ahead. After the break, the Darts were caught out immediately when Marcus Allen pulled a goal back, then equalised with twenty minutes to go. Sam Odaudu scored a deflected free-kick late in the game, but another free-kick from Chris Whelpdale caught out goalkeeper Jonny Henly during injury time to level for the Hillians.

Whilst the Darts are now six unbeaten in the Isthmian Premier they have only picked up ten points from those games.

New Signing

Dartford could give a debut to 21-year-old Jacob Bland, a new signing from Isthmian Division One North side Bowers and Pitsea. The midfielder spent a month with the Darts during the summer. After getting regular games with Bowers, Pennock feels Bland is now a good addition to the squad.

Noble Shines and Signs

Dartford romped to the league title last time Brentwood Town were in the same division. Lining up for The Blues against the Darts that year was a future Dartford legend. Lee Noble impressed Tony Burman in both fixtures back in 2008, so much so he signed the midfielder that summer.

Noble spent 12 years at Princes Park, scoring the National South playoff winner in 2012, won the Supporter’s Player of the Year on five occasions, made over 450 appearances and scored 51 goals. Noble returned home to Brentwood Town in 2024, became Manager’s Player of the Year and helped the Blues to the Isthmian Division One North title.

In a campaign where the Darts added a championship to their honours, Brentwood Town took four points from Burman’s side. Brendon Cass and John Guest scored for Dartford in a 2-2 draw in Essex. The reverse fixture ended 1-0 to the Blues, the scorer that day was Lee Noble.

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Highlights courtesy of sonytino

Brentwood’s Brilliant Start

The Blues have been perfect since the season opening draw at Aveley. Former West Ham United defender and Northern Ireland international, Keith Rowland guided Brentwood Town to their first Isthmian Premier point in nine years. Summer signing Charlee Hughes scored against his former club in the 1-1 draw.

Since then, Brentwood Town have been unstoppable with maximum points in their last eight outings. At home, the Blues have beaten St Albans City, Burgess Hill Town, Carshalton Athletic, Canvey Island and Billericay Town. All opponents Dartford have already played home or away this term with the Darts picking up six points from those teams.

Top Scorers

Rowland’s team have been potent in attack helped by last season’s Player’s Player and Supporters’ Player Of The Year, Danny Ogunleye. He is already on five league goals and sparked interest from Colchester United over the summer. Hughes is just one goal behind in all competitions joint with Louie Johnson, who netted 18 last season to pick up annual awards at Walthamstow.

Manager’s View

The shock defeat at Hadley led to an honest discussion in the Dartford camp. Pennock spoke to www.dartfordfc.com this week and said: “We had a good chat after the game. It was an open floor. I said what I thought and I let them all speak and they gave their opinions. There was no shouting, but we all took things on board and we will see an improvement on Saturday”.

Dartford’s boss felt let down and urges his team to ‘play for the shirt’ and get a good result against the league leaders this weekend, he commented: “I want a reaction and a better performance”, he added: “I want us to bounce back and put in a proper performance against a team that is flying”.

Looking forward to the trip to Essex, Pennock is confident fortunes will improve if the players perform to the levels he demands, he said: “I know we will turn it round. But this week, I want to see energy and players that want the ball. The players know they will need to up the intensity that we have seen in the past few games, but if we can do that, it will be a cracking game”.

Team News

Dartford will be without their creative spark, Olly Box who is suspended for the red card picked up against Burgess Hill Town. However, Ikechi Eze returns after serving his ban. Defender, Ben Frempah has been out of the squad since the draw at home to Canvey Island in early September. Both Sammie McLeod and Dean Nayler have yet to feature this term as they recover from long term injuries.

Current Form

Dartford (DDDWDL)			Brentwood Town (WWLWWW)
Hadley (FAT)	A	1-2	Westfield (FAT)	A	2-1
Burgess Hill Town	H	3-3	Dulwich Hamlet	A	2-1
Cheshunt	H	2-0	Billericay Town	H	3-0
Erith Town (CC)	A	1-1*	Royston Town (FAC)	A	0-1
Aveley	A	1-1	Canvey Island	H	1-0
Canvey Island	H	2-2	Carshalton Athletic	H	3-2

(FAC – F.A Cup / CC – County Cup / FAT – F.A Trophy / * – lost 3-4 on penalties)

Head to Head

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

Previous Meetings

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)
Dartford 1 – 1 Brentwood Town (15/02/1969 – Southern League First Division)
Dartford 2 – 0 Billericay Town (15/04/1968 – Southern League First Division)

Statistics

Dartford are four games without a league win against Brentwood Town (D2, L2)
The Darts are five league games without a win on the road from the start of the season for the first time since 2019
Neither side have scored more than two goals in this fixture

On This Day

It’s been 11 years since Dartford played on 11 October and that was the 1-1 draw at home to Macclesfield Town. The National Premier game ended all square thanks to two late goals. Ryan Hayes looked to have won it for the Darts with five minutes to go, but Matthew Barnes-Homer levelled.

The last six Dartford fixtures on this day have all been at home with just two victories recorded. Ilford were beaten 3-1 in the Southern Premier Division One East back in 2005. Whilst in 1988, the Darts won a Southern League first round cup tie 1-0 versus Hastings United.

On the road, the Darts are unbeaten in four on this day with three draws. The last away day on 11 October was in 1986 against Bedworth United, a Southern Premier League match that ended 1-1. Dartford’s last win on their travels on this day was in 1975 when they defeated Waterlooville 2-1 in the Southern League Division One South.

Dartford v Burgess Hill Town

September 30, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford can stretch their unbeaten run in the Isthmian Premier to six when they host newly promoted Burgess Hill Town on Tuesday night.

The Darts have yet to be defeated in four league games at Princes Park. Adrian Pennock’s side will be trying to use home advantage to pick up a second consecutive home victory in three days to move up the table.

Burgess Hill Town used the momentum of promotion to begin this season in a promising manner. However, the Hillians are looking for a first league win since the second match of the campaign.

Returning Players

Discipline and injuries have cost Dartford in the early part of the season. Although Ikecki Eze was suspended against Cheshunt, Pennock could look forward to welcoming back a few faces. Sam Okoye returned from his ban, whilst Sam Odaudu was fit to start after almost a month out. The Dartford boss also named Michael Olarewaju and Dan Smith on the bench. The pair have also been on the injury list and both managed some minutes on Saturday.

Progress

Pennock called on his players to turn draws into wins and that’s just what they did at home to Cheshunt. Following the 4-1 victory against Carshalton Athletic, the Darts drew three consecutive league games, recorded a stalemate in the F.A Cup and were level after full-time in the Kent Senior Cup. Dartford had recorded five draws in normal time in their last six outings.

Early goals conceded, a lack of clean sheets and red cards have caused Dartford some problems this season. This time the tables turned as the Darts beat ten man Cheshunt 2-0 by scoring early goals in each half.

On six minutes Eddie Dsane poked home the opener after the Ambers failed to deal with Olly Box’s cross. The hosts created better chances and were good value for their lead. Dartford’s advantage increased when Cheshunt had Darion Furlong sent off before the interval. The Darts had a quick start to the second half as well by doubling the lead. Jez Pinder broke away on a counter attack to set up Box to slot in number two.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Winning Streak Over the Hillians

Dartford have won all but one of the eight games against Burgess Hill Town, winning the last five. This weekend’s fixture will be the first time since the 2006/2007 season that the two sides have met in the same division. The Darts produced a pair of stunning performances against the Hillians back then.

Brendon Cass scored his second hat-trick against the Hillians in the last league game against the Sussex club. Yet the match is remembered for one of the best goals scored at Princes Park when Dave Martin hit a stunning long range effort into the top corner. The winger netted a brace that day, John Guest and Ryan Hayes also found the back of the net in a 7-2 victory.

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Highlights courtesy of sonytino

The reverse fixture three months later was another one sided affair as the Darts ran out 6-1 winners. Cass claimed the match ball with a hat-trick, John Farley added one and Jay May scored twice.

Since the two league victories, Dartford have knocked Burgess Hill Town out of cup competitions on three occasions. In 2014/2015, the Darts completed a double against the Hillians in the F.A Cup and F.A Trophy. Harry Crawford scored twice and Elliot Bradbrook from the spot put Dartford into the first round of the F.A Cup with a 3-1 win. Then it took a late Danny Harris winner to secure a 2-1 victory in the F.A Trophy, Crawford opened the scoring. The two sides were drawn out of the hat at the same stage of the F.A Cup in 2017. This time Alfie Pavey scored the only goal of the game.

Away from Home

Burgess Hill Town returned to the Isthmian Premier after a six year absence by winning the Isthmian Division One South East playoffs and made a great start this term. The Hillians opened their campaign three unbeaten. Potters Bar Town and Cray Valley Paper Mills were beaten before a 3-3 draw at Aveley.

A newly installed 3G pitch at Leylands Park meant the Hillians had to play their first seven games of 2025/2026 on the road. Since their last win versus the Millers, joint managers Gary Mansell and Jay Lovett have failed to record a league victory. Defeats at pacesetters Brentwood Town and Lewes were followed by a cup win at Wokingham Town and a draw at Cheshunt.

A Tale of Two Boxes

Whilst Dartford’s Olly Box has scored five goals this term, Burgess Hill Town’s Martyn Box has netted in his last three appearances. However, the Hillians defender has been on the losing side each time.

The Sussex club were knocked out of the F.A Cup against Farnham Town in a 3-1 defeat. In their two Isthmian Premier outings since the cup exit, the Hillians have been beaten 3-2 by Folkestone Invicta and 4-2 by Carshalton Athletic. The Sussex side were 2-1 up over the Robins with nine minutes to go before throwing three points away.

Assistant Manager’s View

Roland Edge was pleased with the way Dartford began Saturday’s game, he told Dartford FC TV: “We started really bright which is what we’ve been talking about. Obviously from the start of the season we’ve been a little slow out of the blocks”.

Pennock and Edge felt the midfield needed strengthening, so moving Sam Odaudu from wing back helped. Edge was full of praise for the academy graduate, he said: “I think he is a very, very good player in both roles whether he plays left wing back or centre mid”, he added: “He went through the academy in centre mid so we know he is comfortable there”.

Edge continued: “We felt we needed a little bit of stability in there, someone who can hold the shape. You know how strong he is and he makes the pitch big. He’s got a lovely left foot and he knows what he’s going to do with the ball before he gets it”.

Over the opening two months of the campaign the management team have identified need for improvement on the field, but the Darts are moving in the right direction. Edge commented: “You’ve seen there has been progress. I think we’re becoming more solid. Ady works so hard on shape and keeping the pattern and I think bit by bit you’re starting to see that, and we’ll end up getting results because of it”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Team News

Eze will be suspended against one of his former sides. Dean Nayler and Sammie McLeod have been dealing with long term injuries. Saturday’s goalscorer, Dsane was substituted on the weekend before half-time. Edge confirmed the substitution was precautionary because of a knock the striker picked up at Aveley.

Current Form

Dartford (DLDDDW)			Burgess Hill Town (LWDLLL)
Cheshunt	H	2-0	Carshalton Athletic	H	2-4
Erith Town (CC)	A	1-1*	Folkestone Invicta	H	2-3
Aveley	A	1-1	Farnham Town (FAC)	A	1-3
Canvey Island	H	2-2	Cheshunt	A	1-1
Bracknell Town (FAC)	H	0-2	Wokingham Town (FAC)	A	5-1
Bracknell Town (FAC)	A	2-2	Lewes	A	0-3

(FAC – F.A Cup / CC – County Cup / * – lost 3-4 on penalties)

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 7 / Burgess Hill Town wins: 1 / Draws: 0

Previous Meeting

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)
Burgess Hill Town 1 – 6 Dartford (19/08/2006 – Isthmian Division One South)
Dartford 0 – 3 Burgess Hill Town (28/10/2003 – Southern League Cup)

Statistics

Dartford have won all four league matches against Burgess Hill Town
The Darts are on a five game winning streak versus the Hillians
Dartford kept their first clean sheet in 16 games when they beat Cheshunt on Saturday.
Sam Okoye will make his 50th Dartford appearance if selected. The full back has started 42 games and scored one goal since joining in August 2024

On This Day

Dartford are currently unbeaten in their last five games on this day. Two years ago an own goal helped the Darts past Harrow Borough in the London Senior Cup. In 2017, the Darts hit Needham Market for six in the F.A Cup third qualifying round. Pavey scored a hat-trick, Tom Murphy, Andy Pugh and Ryan Hayes made it 6-1 on the day.

Peter Sweeney and Elliot Bradbrook scored in a 2-2 derby draw with Welling United in 2014. In the National League two years earlier, Richard Rose hit a brilliant late winner against Hyde as the Darts won 2-1. In 2006, Dave Martin netted the only goal in a 1-0 triumph over Croydon Athletic in the Isthmian Division One South.

Dartford v Cheshunt

September 26, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford look to maintain their unbeaten home run in the league when they host Cheshunt this weekend.

The Darts have recorded just one win all season and that was over a month ago. Adrian Pennock’s side have drawn three consecutive games in the Isthmian Premier and a much needed victory will see Dartford move in the right direction.

Since relegation from the National South, Cheshunt survived another drop and finished in the lower half last term. The Ambers have made a better start this time around with just one defeat in their opening eight league fixtures.

County Cup Exits

Both sides were involved in their respective county cups on Tuesday night. Dartford were up against Isthmian South East side Erith Town and went out on penalties. With the amount of injuries in the squad Pennock used the Kent Senior Cup tie as an opportunity to hand some of the younger and academy players their debuts.

Crowning his first start for the Darts, Albie O’Mara-Knapp scored his first senior goal in just his third appearance to give Dartford a lead going into the break. Erith Town were level shortly after the restart when Aaron Jeffrey headed the equaliser. With no extra time the tie went to penalties with the Dockers progressing into the next round.

Cheshunt were involved in the Hertfordshire Senior Cup and were away at Hadley, Dartford’s opponents in the F.A Trophy next Saturday. Mel Gwinnett’s side went a goal down in first half injury time after conceding a penalty. Isaac Stones scored the spot kick for the hosts. The Ambers were unable to find a leveller and so it was Hadley who progressed to the semi-final.

Whitefield’s Wonderstrike

George Whitefield scored a brilliant winner in the corresponding fixture last season. With the match all level, the defender unleashed a shot from long range to hand Dartford three points. Earlier, Samir Carruthers had converted his penalty before Tommy Wood equalised for Cheshunt.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Ambers Spoil the Party

The story was different in the reverse match seven months ago. The Darts were on the verge of creating history after equalling a club record 21 league games unbeaten. Cheshunt had other ideas though and humbled the visitors 3-0, denting Dartford’s title ambitions in the process. Donell Thomas scored in first half injury time, Kenny Coker doubled the lead and Vas Vasiliou added a third from the spot.

Draw Specialists

Dartford have specialised in drawing lately with the most recent against Aveley. Unlike the previous two outings, in which the Darts had to come from behind, this time they let a goal lead slip. Callum Jones scored his first of the season, but with four minutes remaining Jayden Gipson equalised for the Millers. Both sides were reduced to ten men earlier in the clash with Aveley’s Albie Armin being sent off for a reckless tackle and Ikechi Eze for retaliating.

Like Dartford, the Ambers have also drawn their last three league games slowing down their early season progress. The Hertfordshire side, yet to be beaten at home, picked up a point on their own patch against Burgess Hill Town, then when they hosted Billericay Town and in their last league outing versus Dulwich Hamlet.

Early Pacesetters

Cheshunt were setting the pace after the opening two games and scoring plenty of goals. The Ambers defeated Welling United 4-2 and went to Canvey Island and won 4-1. Only Chatham Town have managed to get the better of Gwinnett’s team in the Isthmian Premier, but Cheshunt bounced back with a couple of victories. Hashtag United were beaten 3-1 and St Albans City lost 2-1 before the run of draws.

Manager’s View

Pennock took the decision to rest the majority of the first team squad in midweek to protect the players he has available for this weekend. The Dartford manager is hoping for some members of the team to return to action, he spoke to www.dartford.com and confirmed: “I’m hoping we have a few back, but I will know more after Thursday’s training session”.

Although injuries and suspensions have played a part in Dartford’s campaign so far, Pennock still believes he can start picking up victories, he added: “I’m confident we can change these draws into wins and I would like that to happen as soon as possible, especially with a full, fit squad to choose from”.

Team News

Sam Odaudu, Michael Olarewaju, Dan Smith, Sammie McLeod and Dean Nayler have all been on the injury list. Sam Okoye has served his suspension, but Ikechi Eze will start his ban for the red card recieved last weekend.

Current Form

Dartford (DDLDDD)			Cheshunt (WLDDDL)
Erith Town (CC)	A	1-1*	Hadley (CC)	A	0-1
Aveley	A	1-1	Dulwich Hamlet	H	1-1
Canvey Island	H	2-2	Billericay Town	H	2-2
Bracknell Town (FAC)	H	0-2	Burgess Hill Town	H	1-1
Bracknell Town (FAC)	A	2-2	Leiston (FAC)	H	1-2
Ramsgate	A	4-4	St Albans City	A	2-1

(FAC – F.A Cup / CC – County Cup / * – lost 3-4 on penalties)

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Cheshunt wins: 1 / Draws: 0

Previous Meeting

Cheshunt 3 – 0 Dartford (22/02/2025 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 2 – 1 Cheshunt (09/11/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Cheshunt 1 – 3 Dartford (07/01/2023 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Cheshunt (13/08/2022 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford have a perfect home record against Cheshunt in the two meetings so far
The Darts have yet to keep a clean sheet versus the Ambers
In the four matches played both teams scored averaging 3.25 goals per game
Dartford have drawn three league games in a row for the first time since January 2022. The last time Dartford drew four consecutive league matches was in April 1992.

On This Day

Samir Carruthers and Luke Allen hit the target on this day in 2022. A goal down at home to Eastbourne Borough, the Darts came back to win 2-1 in the National South. Eight years earlier the same pattern of scoring happened away at Nuneaton Town. The Darts were a goal down in the National Premier before Elliot Bradbrook scored a penalty with 12 minutes remaining and Danny Harris grabbed the winner a couple of minutes later.

Aveley v Dartford

September 19, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford are back in action this weekend and are determined to claim a first away win of the season when they visit Aveley.

The Darts have yet to hit top gear and have picked up just one point on the road. The Millers were relegated from the National South last term and are waiting for their first league victory at home this campaign.

Slow Out of the Blocks

Adrian Pennock’s side are just a place above the relegation zone and one of the constant themes this season is the need for the Darts to come from behind. Dartford have conceded first in all but one of their eight fixtures so far. Although they turned the game around at home to Carshalton Athletic, they fought back against Ramsgate, Bracknell Town and most recently Canvey Island to rescue draws.

Youngsters Step Up

A dreadful opening six minutes saw Dartford two down at home to Canvey Island a fortnight ago. Defensive frailties were punished by a side looking for their first points. Jonny Henly failed to hold on to a shot for Canvey’s Charlie Stimson to score. Then the goalkeeper was lobbed by Max Fiddes.

A number of injuries in the squad meant Pennock had to trust his young side. In the end, two academy graduates saved the day. First, George Whitefield nodded in Olly Box’s cross on 67 minutes Then Box hit a low strike to equalise two minutes later.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Tennent Moves In

Dartford’s defence has been hit hard this season with a number of injuries and suspensions. It’s an obvious concern for Pennock who has signed the experienced Joe Tennent to help shore up the back.

The central defender arrives from Dover Athletic and played a pivotal role in beating the Darts in last season’s playoff final. The 27-year old made 36 appearances for the Whites in 2024/2025 and could make his debut this weekend.

Late Winner at Parkside

It took until the fifth National South game in August 2023 for Dartford to claim their first win in that campaign. That victory was in their last visit to Parkside against Aveley. Maximum points were snatched in the fifth minute of injury time when Harvey Bradbury headed the decisive goal. Whitefield and Box were the only current players involved in that matchday squad and they were unused substitutes.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Millers Return to the Isthmian

After a two year stay in the National South, Aveley were relegated last season. Danny Scopes stepped down and Brett Munyard is now manager of the Essex club. Over the summer Munyard was busy in the transfer market bringing in plenty of new faces. One of those is former Dartford loanee, Rowan Liburd from Chatham Town. The striker made three appearances for the Darts during the 2019/2020 campaign.

Late Cup Victory

Whilst Dartford had a rest last weekend, Aveley travelled to Suffolk to take on Southern Premier Central side AFC Sudbury. A late Alejandro Machado winner sent the Millers into the F.A Cup third qualifying round where they will visit Grimsby Borough. Earlier in the tie Jaden Brissett equalised for the Essex side after the hosts had led through Kyran Clements’ goal.

Back Down to Earth

Monday night proved to be even tougher for Munyard’s side. Approaching their home fixture with one defeat in their opening six league games, Aveley hosted Folkestone Invicta. The Millers led through Jayden Robinson, but found themselves 4-1 down halfway into the second half. Jayden Gipson pulled a goal back before Invicta added a fifth.

Assistant Manager’s View

Heading into this weekend’s fixture Roland Edge knows his players have what it takes to save a match if required, but they need to “find out what makes them tick from minute one” in future games. The assistant manager spoke to Dartford FC TV after the draw with Canvey Island and said: “We don’t doubt their character, they will always fight until the end. They won’t give up, they are honest boys”.

Although going behind in matches allows the Darts to showcase their team spirit, the assistant manager would rather a smoother ride, he commenetd: “To be honest we shouldn’t be fighting back. Too often we are letting teams get into the position where they should be seeing the game out”, he continued: “It’s only down to endevaour, hardwork and some of the skills we have got within the team that we are getting back. We get back into games, but we’re not that happy with it”.

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Interview courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Team News

An early F.A Cup exit means the Darts have had a week off and extra recovery time for some of the squad. Sam Odaudu and Sam Okoye were both substituted in the cup replay versus Bracknell Town. The defenders weren’t fit to be included in the matchday squad four days later against Canvey Island. Four others are recovering from injury as well. Captain, Michael Olarewaju has been out for a month. Dan Smith pulled up with a hamstring issue at the end of August. Pre-season injuries to Sammie McLeod and Dean Nayler means the pair have yet to feature this season, Nayler will be a long term absentee.

Current Form

Dartford (LWDDLD)			Aveley (LWWDWL)
Canvey Island	H	2-2	Folkestone Invicta	H	2-5
Bracknell Town (FAC)	H	0-2	AFC Sudbury (FAC)	A	2-1
Bracknell Town (FAC)	A	2-2	St Albans City	H	1-1
Ramsgate	A	4-4	Hashtag United (FAC)	H	3-0
Carshalton Athletic	H	4-1	Canvey Island	A	2-1
St Albans City	A	0-2	Chatham Town	H	0-2

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 6 / Aveley wins: 3 / Draws: 3

Previous Six Meetings

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 League)
Dartford 4 – 5 Aveley (15/12/2009 – Isthmian League Cup)
Aveley 1 – 4 Dartford (24/10/2009 – Isthmian Premier League)
Aveley 2 – 2 Dartford (29/12/2007 – Isthmian Division One North)

Statistics

Dartford are unbeaten in their last four trips to Aveley (W3, L1)
This fixture has averaged 4.08 goals a game in the 12 previous meetings. Dartford have scored 31 to Aveley’s 18
The Darts have conceded first in ten of their last 11 games
In the 15 games since the start of April, the Darts have faced a two or more goal deficit in ten matches. Dartford have won one and drawn four of those ten games.
The Darts have gained five of their six points this season from losing positions

On This Day

Dartford’s last away win on this day was back in 2003 when they beat Hastings United 3-0 in the Southern League Eastern Division. Since then the Darts have been beaten on the road by Chatham Town, losing 1-0 in 2005 and by Cray Wanderers in a 2017 Kent Senior Cup tie that ended 4-2 to the Wands.

Way back in 1890 Dartford racked up 16 goals without reply in a friendly against Star Rovers, Belvedere. Three players claimed a hat-trick that day Sales and Harry Exeter scored five each and Madden netted three.

Brendon Cass started and finished the scoring in a 4-0 home win against Horsham in 2008, Lee Noble netted a brace in between. Three years later a Ryan Hayes penalty and a Tom Champion goal helped the Darts to a 2-1 Princes Park triumph over Staines Town. Dartford’s last league fixture on this day ended with a 2-1 home loss against Forest Green Rovers in 2014, Max Cornhill scored a last minute consolation.

Dartford v Canvey Island

September 4, 2025 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

A Dartford legend returns in the opposing dugout when the Darts host bottom of the table Canvey Island this weekend.

Adrian Pennock will be aiming to maintain Dartford’s unbeaten record against the Gulls. In his way will be former player manager, Peter Taylor who will be determined to help Canvey Island gain their first points of the season.

Perfect League Record

Dartford have won every league encounter against the Essex club averaging three goals a game. Last season the trend continued and although the Darts score quite so many they kept a clean sheet in both matches.

Sam Odaudu put in a man of the match performance scoring his first ever goal at Princes Park in this fixture last term. The full back stabbed home a volley in the second half. Tyler Christian-Law wrapped up the points with eight minutes to go.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In December, the Darts kept up the 100% league record versus Canvey Island by winning 1-0 at Park Lane. Eddie Dsane scored the only goal of the game on the stroke of half-time.

F.A Cup Exit

The Darts went out at the first hurdle against Bracknell Town in their F.A Cup replay on Tuesday night. Samir Carruthers made his first start of the season after being out with a groin injury, but was unable to complete the full ninety. Ben Frempah wasn’t involved in the squad on Saturday, but he returned to the starting eleven. Both Olly Box and Ikechi Eze were also selected after coming off the bench on Saturday. Dan Smith was out injured, Jez Pinder was named as a substitute, Sam Smith and Sam Okoye were suspended for the replay. The hosts finished the tie with six academy graduates on the field. Richie Atkins was introduced late in the game to make his senior debut.

The habit of falling behind continued despite the Darts creating enough opportunities to be ahead. Approaching the interval and against the run of play Teddy Tarbotton put Bracknell Town in front. The pattern of play carried on in the second half, but once again Dartford went two down when Joe Grant scored his third against the Darts in three days. This time Pennock’s side was unable to claw back the deficit and went out at the F.A Cup first qualifying round for the first time since 2006.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

A Legend Returns

Peter Taylor returned to management this summer at the age of 72 and is certainly the most experienced manager in the Isthmian Premier. At Dartford he managed for four seasons between 1986 and 1990, came Southern League runners up in consecutive seasons, won back to back Southern League Cups and lifted the Kent Senior Cup twice. He also led the Darts to two F.A Trophy semi-finals as well as the F.A Cup first round on three occasions. As a player manager he also made it into the club’s top ten scorers of all-time with 94 goals in 253 games.

Struggling Gulls

Canvey Island are at the foot of the table and out of the F.A Cup. However, the Darts will not take the Gulls lightly as almost a year ago they lost to another side from Essex at the bottom, Bowers and Pitsea. Taylor has recently said that managing the Gulls could be the toughest job of all in his many past challenges as a player and manager.

Six games into the season and the Gulls have yet to avoid defeat. On the weekend they were beaten by one of Taylor’s former teams Maldon and Tiptree in the cup. Over the Bank Holiday period they lost to then league leaders Dulwich Hamlet and two days later were second best in their derby at home to Aveley.

The lowest scorers in the division with just two goals, it is clear where immediate improvements are needed. Aside from the four conceded against Cheshunt, the Essex side have let in two goals in all the other matches so far.

Team News

Sam Smith and Okoye return from their one match suspension. Dan Smith, Dean Nayler, Michael Olarewaju and Sammie McLeod were on the injury list on Tuesday. Odaudu was taken off with an injury against Bracknell Town. Dsane could make his 50th appearance for the Darts if he features on Saturday. The striker has scored four in his last three appearances.

Current Form

Dartford (DLWDDL)			Canvey Island (LLLLLL)
Bracknell Town (FAC)	H	0-2	Maldon & Tiptree (FAC)	A	0-2
Bracknell Town (FAC)	A	2-2	Aveley	H	2-2
Ramsgate	A	4-4	Basingstoke Town	H	3-2
Carshalton Athletic	H	4-1	Weymouth	A	1-1
St Albans City	A	0-2	Poole Town	H	3-4
Billericay Town	H	1-1	Uxbridge	H	1-1

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 8 / Canvey Island wins: 0 / Draws: 2

Previous Six Meetings

Canvey Island 0 – 1 Dartford (28/12/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 2 – 0 Canvey Island (17/08/2024 – Isthmian Premier)
Dartford 3 – 3 Canvey Island (12/10/2010 – F.A Cup)*
Canvey Island 2 – 2 Dartford (09/10/2010 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 2 – 1 Canvey Island (05/04/2010 – Isthmian Premier)
Canvey Island 2 – 5 Dartford (29/12/2009 – Isthmian Premier)
* – Dartford won 9-8 on penalties

Statistics

Dartford have won all eight league matches against Canvey Island with an aggregate score of 24-6
The Darts have won four and drawn one versus the Gulls at Princes Park. The draw ended up in a F.A Cup penalty shootout, which Dartford won 9-8
Dartford have conceded first in nine of their last ten games
The Darts have gone 12 games without a clean sheet and eight without a clean sheet at home
Dartford have won one of their last eight since their playoff semi-final win last season

On This Day

Dartford claimed bragging rights in their Kent derby with Welling United on this day nine years ago. The National South fixture finished 2-1 to the Darts at Princes Park. Elliot Bradbrook missed a penalty only for Alex Brown to score the rebound. Adam Coombes netted a free-kick for the Wings, but Bradbrook grabbed the winner. That is the only win for the Darts in the last six matches on 6 September.