Tag: Maidstone United

Dartford v Maidstone United

Dartford are one game away from the Kent Senior Cup final when they host Maidstone United for a second time in three days.

The two most decorated sides in the competition go head to head for the seventeenth time in the county cup. Dartford are looking to close the gap in terms of lifting the cup having done so on thirteen occasions compared to Maidstone United’s eighteen.

Since 2011, the Darts have won the Kent Senior Cup four times and that was after a 23 year wait. The Stones have had a similar story and have been triumphant twice since 2018 having not featured in a final for 28 years.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Ady Pennock will give a chance for those who didn’t feature in the weekend loss against Maidstone United as he concentrates on keeping the Darts in the National South. The Stones are in a similar position but at the other end of the table. They are pushing for a playoff place and a return to the National League.

Although the Darts remain focused on the league, a cup final will bring some cheer during a difficult campaign. Currently in the relegation zone Dartford will need to overcome a Maidstone United side who have already beaten them three times this season, a fourth win in a single campaign in this fixture will set a new record.

Just three days ago the Stones claimed Kent derby honours in a 2-0 National South win at Princes Park. Dartford made four changes to the side that also lost 2-0 at Braintree Town a week ago. Pennock brought back Paul Rooney, Jordan Wynter, Taylor Maloney and Brandon Barzey to replace Tyrell Miller-Rodney, Manny Adebowale, Jack Smith and Ibby Akanbi, who was unavailable due to illness.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Once again the Darts put in plenty of effort and after a promising first half they still went in at half-time a goal down. Luke Coulson and Jordan Greenidge tested the Stones goalkeeper and Barzey also came close. Billy Terrell was called into action saving Muhammadu Faal’s effort, but as the interval approached the Stones led through Liam Sole’s injury time goal. Terrell’s afternoon worsened when ten minutes into the second-half he was red carded, Dartford’s seventh sending off this season and second in the last two outings. Maidstone United went on to control the match for last half an hour and Matt Rush secured the away win.

The reverse fixture in the National South was Alan Dowson’s final game in charge of the Darts. Coulson gave Dartford the lead from the penalty spot. However, the Kent derby turned in the space of five second-half minutes. Harry Kyprianou and Rush scored for the Stones to hand the hosts the three points. The two sides also met in the F.A Trophy second round back in November and Levi Amantchi’s last minute winner sent the Stones into the next round.

Dartford won the last Kent Senior Cup tie against their Kent rivals back in 2020. Like this season, the pair had already met three times two months earlier with a draw in the league and a week later a stalemate in the F.A Trophy. The Stones went on to win the replay, but the Darts avenged defeat in the county cup with a 1-0 victory in January. Ky Marsh-Brown scored the decisive goal to take a Steve King side to the last eight. Dartford ended up going all the way winning the delayed final 6-1 against Whitstable Town.

A year earlier midfielder Ben Greenhalgh ended up in goal as the Darts almost held out for a quarter-final win. Maidstone United were holders at the time and fell behind when Charlie Sheringham scored a penalty. The Stones won a spot kick shortly afterwards, which Bailey Vose saved. However, his evening was cut short when he was sent off early in the second half. Greenhalgh almost kept a clean sheet until former Dart, Elliott Romain scored a late equaliser. After an incredible 15 successful penalties, Dan Johnson had his effort from 12 yards saved and Maidstone United progressed with a 8-7 shoot-out win.

Despite such success in this competition by both clubs they have only met in the semi-final once. In 1989, a 0-0 draw sent the tie into a replay and the two couldn’t be separated after a 1-1 draw at Watling Street. Once again it was Maidstone United who went through on penalties.

Story so far

Round Two
Dartford 5 – 1 Bromley
All level at the interval, the Darts ran riot in the second-half. Sheringham scored from the spot, but a poor defensive error gifted Bromley an equaliser. Luke Allen put the hosts ahead soon after the break. A third goal involvement from Sheringham arrived when he finished Alex Wall’s cross and Barzey wrapped things up with a brace.

Maidstone United 2 – 0 Gillingham
The Stones took on a young Gills side that featured Matty MacArthur, who was on loan at the Darts earlier in the season. Sole was brought down to earn a penalty in the first-half, which Devonte Aransibia dispatched. Five minutes before the break Sol Wanjau-Smith-Smith doubled the lead.

Quarter-Final
Dartford 3 – 2 Sevenoaks Town
The Darts ended the evening with a win and a new player. Whilst Olly Box ended with a first start for the club and his first goal. Box scored the opener and Matthew Attenborough-Warren equalised in the first-half. Manny Adebowale put Dartford back in front in the second-half and Coulson’s penalty extended the lead. Attenborough-Warren scored a late consolation, but it was Fumnaya Shomotun who impressed and the winger signed for the Darts.

Maidstone United 0 – 0 Punjab United
Up against a Southern Counties East side, the Stones, like the Darts made hard work of reaching the last four. No goals in normal time sent the tie to spot kicks. Harley Earle saved two to avoid an upset and send Maidstone United through 4-3 on penalties.

Current Form

Dartford (LDLLLL) Maidstone United  (LWDLWW)
Maidstone United H 0-2 Dartford A 2-0
Braintree Town A 1-2 Chelmsford City H 2-0
Torquay United A 1-4 St Albans City H 1-2
Aveley H 1-2 Bath City H 2-2
Taunton Town H 1-1 Dover Athletic A 1-0
Slough Town A 2-3 Coventry City (FAC) A 0-5

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 50 / Draws: 19

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 0 – 2 Maidstone United (16/03/2024 – National South)
Maidstone United 2 – 1 Dartford (09/01/2024 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/11/2023 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/04/2022 – National South)
Maidstone United 4 – 0 Dartford (11/12/2021 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 3 Dartford (02/10/2021 – F.A Cup)

Statistics

  • Dartford have lost just once in the last nine Kent Senior Cup ties against Maidstone United in normal time (W5, D3)
  • The Stones have knocked the Darts out of the competition in their last three visits to Watling Street/Princes Park (1981, 1989 and 2019)
  • Dartford have had a different manager for each Kent Senior Cup tie this season. Alan Dowson was in charge against Bromley, Tony Burman was in the dugout versus Sevenoaks Town, now Ady Pennock is at the helm.

On This Day

Dartford reached the Kent Senior Cup final on this day in 1955. The Darts beat Dover Athletic 2-1 in front of 3668 fans. In 1990 they beat Welling United 2-1 in a quarter final replay. You have to go back six games to 1994 for Dartford’s last win on this day. In the Kent League the Darts beat Tunbridge Wells 1-0. The last two fixtures on 19 March have been against Havant and Waterlooville. In 2022, Kory Roberts scored in a 1-1 draw at Princes Park. Six years earlier the Darts lost 2-0 at Westleigh Park.

Dartford v Maidstone United

Dartford slipped into the relegation zone this week and will be desperate to pick up points against Kent rivals Maidstone United.

The Darts are searching for a first home win in the league since November and will be up against a Stones side looking to move into a playoff place. Ady Pennock has lost both games since taking charge at Princes Park and has a big challenge on his hands to guide Dartford to safety. Maidstone United have enjoyed a tremendous F.A Cup run to the fifth round this season and are now concentrating on finishing in the top seven. Three days later the Darts will be hosting the Stones again in the Kent Senior Cup semi-final.

Pennock made his second signing just ahead of Tuesday night’s fixture at Braintree Town. Ronny Nelson was part of Torquay United’s squad last weekend and was an unused substitute against the Darts. Now the central defender will be wearing a Dartford shirt after signing for a month from League Two side Colchester United. The 20-year-old joined the Essex club from Leicester City’s academy.

Dartford’s boss made one change to the side that tasted defeat in Devon. Nelson was put straight into the lineup to replace Joash Nembhard, who was on the bench. Midfielder, Jack Smith made his 50th appearance for the club. Jordan Wynter served the last of his two-match suspension and could face his former side this weekend. Sam Odaudu is still recovering from injury and Elliott Romain’s loan spell has come to an end.

Dartford slipped into the bottom four with a 2-0 defeat in Essex, an eighth loss in their last ten league games. Early bouts of pressure from Braintree Town and a series of corners were too much to handle for the Darts, the hosts finally took advantage through Shaq Coulthirst twenty minutes in. In the second-half Dartford stayed in the game, but a late red card to Jordan Greenidge dashed hopes for an equaliser. That hope was extinguished in stoppage time when Tom Blackwell clinched a second for Braintree Town.

Since Dartford’s last home victory in the National South, at Princes Park they have drawn three and lost four and are currently on a three-game losing streak in the league on their own patch. Four points from the last 33 available home and away has seen the Darts slide into a relegation battle. The situation was worsened on Tuesday night with Taunton Town winning against Torquay United to put Pennock’s side beneath the relegation line.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Next up is the tricky prospect of Maidstone United who Dartford lost to in January at the Gallagher Stadium. Goalkeeper, Billy Terrell made his debut between the sticks in Alan Dowson’s final game as boss, but the loanee from AFC Bournemouth was unable to stop the Darts falling to defeat despite taking the lead. Luke Coulson gave Dartford the lead from the penalty spot. However, the Kent derby turned in the space of five second-half minutes. Harry Kyprianou and Matt Rush scored for the Stones to hand the hosts the three points. Terrell is still waiting for his first clean sheet after making ten appearances so far.

Saturday’s clash will be the third time the Darts have taken on their Kent rivals this season. The pair were drawn together in the F.A Trophy second round back in November Dartford fell to a last gasp goal to Kent rivals Maidstone United in the second round. Another goalkeeper made his debut in this game when Ryan Sandford lined up against his former club. Moussa Diarra came the closest for Dartford in the first half by hitting the woodwork. The hosts had opportunities in the second-half often missing the target. Both goalkeepers were not really troubled until a stoppage time winner from Maidstone United striker Levi Amantchi, who has since made a move to Bromley.

The Stones have got the better of Dartford in recent times winning the previous four meetings. Another triumph will secure a league double over the Darts, which they also achieved last time the two sides were in the same division in 2021/2022. Maidstone United went up as champions in that campaign but made a swift return to the National South after relegation last term. In that title winning season, the Stones came to Princes Park and won 1-0. The main protagonist that day was former Dart, Jack Barham who netted the only goal of the game to end Dartford’s unbeaten home run of 17 games. The striker also claimed the match ball in the reverse fixture with a hat-trick in a 4-0 Maidstone United victory.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

George Elokobi’s side hit the headlines this season in the F.A Cup. The Stones went on an historic run to the fifth round to record their best performance in the competition and the best by a tier six team since Blyth Spartans in 1978. In total Maidstone United played eight ties beating Steyning Town, Winchester City and Torquay United to qualify for the first round proper. They went on to knock out Chesham United before defeating three Football League sides Barrow, Stevenage, Ipswich Town. Eventually their run came to an end with a 5-0 loss at Championship club Coventry City.

Since the last meeting between Dartford and Maidstone United, the Stones have been inconsistent in the National South, perhaps down to the distraction of their cup run. After winning at Princes Park two months ago they occupied third spot, but four wins and defeats plus three draws have seen Elokobi’s side fall out of a top seven place.

Maidstone United aim to get back on track and on Tuesday night they picked up an eleventh home win of the season by beating second place Chelmsford City. Two goals in the final ten minutes from Sam Corne and Matt Rush made the difference. Corne scored from the spot, whilst Rush added his 14th National South goal of the campaign, for Aveley and the Stones. Victory has put the Maidstone United level on points with Bath City, who are in seventh place and was just the tonic after suffering only their third home league defeat of the season on the weekend against St Albans City.

Current Standings

Team Played Points GD
Torquay United 37 41 -3
Taunton Town 33 40 -11
Welling United 37 40 -16
Truro City 32 38 -7
DARTFORD 37 38 -11
Eastbourne Borough 37 34 -26
Havant and Waterlooville 38 32 -27
Dover Athletic 37 22 -31

Current League Form

Dartford (WLDLLL) Maidstone United  (DLWDLW)
Braintree Town A 1-2 Chelmsford City H 2-0
Torquay United A 1-4 St Albans City H 1-2
Aveley H 1-2 Bath City H 2-2
Taunton Town H 1-1 Dover Athletic A 1-0
Slough Town A 2-3 Aveley A 0-2
Dover Athletic A 2-1 Hemel Hempstead H 1-1

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 49 / Draws: 19

Last Six Meetings

Maidstone United 2 – 1 Dartford (09/01/2024 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/11/2023 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/04/2022 – National South)
Maidstone United 4 – 0 Dartford (11/12/2021 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 3 Dartford (02/10/2021 – F.A Cup)
Maidstone United 0 – 2 Dartford (14/11/2020 – National South)

Statistics

  • Dartford are on their longest winless home run in all competitions against Maidstone United, three draws followed by three defeats. One of those draws ended in a penalty shoot-out loss.
  • In the league, Dartford’s current streak of three without a home victory against the Stones (D2, L1) is their longest since 1922 to 1923 (D2, L1)
  • The Darts set an unbeaten record by either side of eight league games in this fixture between 2008 and 2020 (W6, D2). Since then, Dartford have lost three in a row, a fourth would equal a losing league streak set 122 years ago.

On This Day

Dartford have been beaten on this day on the last three occasions with the most recent against Torquay United in 2019, Jamie Reid scored both goals. In the National League six years earlier, the Darts lost 1-0 at Hyde. The last home match on this day was back in 2010 when Boreham Wood won 2-1, Lee Burns the Dartford goalscorer. Prior those three losses, the Darts had lost just one in ten on 16 March. In 1972 they reached the Kent Senior Cup final with a 2-0 victory against Sheppey United.

Maidstone United v Dartford

Dartford are in action against local rivals and giantkillers Maidstone United on Tuesday night in the National South.

The Darts are unbeaten in their last three games, but it could have been so much more without the concession of late goals. Victory on Boxing Day at Welling United was followed by consecutive draws to start the New Year. The Stones could move up to second with a win, which would cap off an excellent few days after creating history in the F.A Cup on the weekend.

Alan Dowson will have to work out a way to make his side last the distance. In consecutive matches the Darts have let a lead slip deep into injury time to be denied crucial victories. Just days before the new year, Dartford looked set for a Kent derby league double over Welling United. Luke Coulson put the hosts ahead, but in the 97th minute the Wings levelled. Then on the weekend, the Darts took the lead twice in a 2-2 draw at Weston-super-Mare. New loan signing Matty MacArthur scored on debut and Alex Wall put Dartford ahead again. This time in the final minute of injury time the Seagulls equalised. The Darts have now dropped 18 points from winning positions this season.

MacArthur made a positive impact on the side on Saturday. The midfielder from Gillingham not only scored the opener, but he also hit the post. The teenager came straight into the side as well as Jordan Wynter to replace the injured Luke Allen and Richard Chin, who has returned to Charlton Athletic to aid his recovery. If selected Wynter will be facing his former club as well as goalkeeper Ryan Sandford. Defender, Sam Odaudu could be making his 50th Dartford appearance on Tuesday night.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

A last-minute goal knocked Dartford out of the F.A Trophy last time they faced Maidstone United almost two months ago. The second round tie finished 1-0 to the Stones with their goal coming from the now departed Levi Amantchi. That was the third consecutive win for Maidstone United in this fixture without conceding a goal.

During their championship winning season a former Dart came back to haunt his former club. Jack Barham scored a hat-trick at the Gallagher Stadium to humble Dartford. The Stones went on to win 4-0. The striker also netted the winner at Princes Park in a 1-0 win ending a 17-match unbeaten home run in the league for the Darts. Maidstone United went on to lift the National South title in 2021/2022. However, Dartford did prevent the Stones from progressing in the F.A Cup that season with their last victory against them. Noor Husin, Danny Leonard and Ade Azeez all scored on the road to send the Darts into the fourth qualifying round.

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Maidstone United were headline makers on the weekend with a 1-0 cupset against League One side Stevenage. For the first time in the club’s history, they have reached round four of the F.A Cup. George Elokobi’s side won a penalty when former Dartford man Jacob Berkeley-Agyepong was fouled. The midfielder made 26 appearances for the Darts scoring eight goals. Sam Corne stepped up and scored the spot kick, then later he cleared a Stevenage effort off the line.

The Stones are in the hunt to return to the National League at the first time of asking. Whilst Yeovil Town seem to be running away at the top, victory for the Stones could move them up into second place. At home, Maidstone United have the third best record in the division in terms of points per game. Tonbridge Angels were the last side to visit the Gallagher Stadium and were beaten 2-0, Corne again on target five minutes after Kodi Lyons-Foster put through his own net. Victory over the Angels was their seventh at home this season in the National South and ended a three-game winless run. During that run, the Stones suffered just their second league defeat as hosts this term. The 1-0 loss versus Chippenham Town came after a 5-1 away reverse at Worthing.

League Form

Dartford (DLLWDD) Maidstone United (WWLLDW)
Weston-super-Mare A 2-2 Tonbridge Angels H 2-0
Welling United H 1-1 Tonbridge Angels A 1-1
Welling United A 1-0 Chippenham Town H 0-1
St Albans City H 0-3 Worthing A 1-5
Tonbridge Angels A 0-4 Truro City H 2-1
Yeovil Town H 2-2 Havant & Waterlooville H 3-1

 

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 48 / Draws: 19

Previous Meetings

Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/11/2023 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/04/2022 – National South)
Maidstone United 4 – 0 Dartford (11/12/2021 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 3 Dartford (02/10/2021 – F.A Cup)
Maidstone United 0 – 2 Dartford (14/11/2020 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 1 Dartford (21/01/2020 – Kent Senior Cup)

Statistics

  • Dartford are on their longest streak without scoring against Maidstone United since the 1920’s. Another blank will set a record of four games without a goal against the Stones.
  • The Darts were unbeaten in seven away games in all competitions against the Stones (W6, D1) until last season’s defeat
  • Dartford have won four, drawn one, lost one at the Gallagher Stadium since it opened in 2012

On This Day

Dartford have won one of their last seven games on this day and that was 36 years ago. The Darts travelled to Leicester United in the Southern Premier League and come home with a 1-0 win. The last two matches on 9 January were also on the road but ended in defeat. In 1999, Dartford were beaten 1-0 by Yate Town in the Southern League South. Three years ago, Chris Dickson scored a penalty against Braintree Town in a 2-1 loss.

Dartford v Maidstone United

Alan Dowson aims to secure a first major cup victory as Dartford boss against Kent rivals Maidstone United this weekend.

The Darts have yet to clear the first hurdle in the F.A Trophy or F.A Cup since Dowson took charge. Although victories have arrived in county competition, Dartford will relish the opportunity to progress in a Kent derby. Maidstone United will be keen to improve on last season’s run to the last eight. The Stones will also hope to repeat their trophy win over the Darts four years ago.

During the Covid hit season, Dartford visited the Gallagher Stadium and fought back twice to force a replay. Former Maidstone United striker Elliott Romain scored both goals after Dan Wishart and Justin Amaluzor put the hosts in front. Back at Princes Park, the Darts were narrowly beaten by an Iffy Allen strike.

In cup competition Dartford have claimed the last two victories. During the same campaign as the F.A Trophy exit, Ky Marsh-Brown scored the winner in the Kent Senior Cup. The Darts went on to lift the county cup for that season almost two years later. In the F.A Cup, Dartford enjoyed a 3-0 away win in October 2021. Noor Husin fired in from long range, Danny Leonard added a second and Ade Azeez put the icing on the cake.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The Stones and former Dart, Jack Barham hit back in the league two months later with a convincing 4-0 win. Barham claimed the match ball with a hat-trick and Michael Phillips added the fourth. Maidstone United’s last visit to Princes Park also ended in triumph, Barham netting the decisive goal.

Dartford have never knocked their rivals out of the F.A Trophy. The previous three attempts ended in defeat. In 1972, the Stones won 1-0 and 15 years later they beat the Darts 5-1. Then there was the replay loss four years ago. This time Dowson’s side have home advantage and with no replay or extra time the result will be settled on the day.

After last weekend’s postponement, Dartford had a week to rest before their trip to Worthing on Tuesday night. Dowson was forced to make two changes with Harvey Bradbury and Joash Nembhard serving a one match ban. The Dartford boss also decided to leave out Lewis Manor. Coming in to the starting eleven were Archie Woods, Luke Allen and Alex Wall. Winger, Brandon Barzey was away on international duty and Tommy Block out injured.

In a topsy-turvy game the Darts came from behind, let a lead slip, but ended up winning 4-3. Worthing went in front when Danny Cashman scored. Then in the space of 15 minutes at the end of the first-half Dartford were 3-1 to the good. Wall capitalised on some poor defending to score his third in four appearances. Captain, Luke Coulson netted from the edge of the box. Jordan Wynter then grabbed a rare goal, his third in his 165th appearance. The hosts fought back with a superb strike from Ricky Aguiar before Ollie Pearce levelled the score. There was one more twist with six minutes to go, Tyrell Miller-Rodney put away the winner.

Wynter could face his former club on the weekend. The versatile defender and midfielder played eight times for the Stones during the 2018/2019. The only other connections between the two sides are both goalkeepers. Mitchell Beeney’s father played in goal for Maidstone United in the late eighties and into the early nineties. New signing Ryan Sandford had a loan spell with the Stones. He could become the fourth keeper used by Dowson this term. The shot stopper arrives after his short term deal ended with AFC Wimbledon.

The Stones are bidding to return to the National League at the first attempt. Relegated last term, the Stones have managed to put unbeaten runs together putting them in playoff contention. A five-game sequence of two wins and three draws followed the opening day triumph over Slough Town and defeat at Bath City. George Elokobi’s side suffered a surprise loss at home to Aveley before picking up another four victories and three draws.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In that time the Stones also progressed to the second round of the F.A Cup. Two months ago, they won 4-1 at Steyning Town of the Southern Combination Premier League. Then three consecutive 2-0 wins have seen the Stones into round two. They faced Southern League Premier South side Winchester City at the end of September, went to Plainmoor and beat Torquay United and a fortnight ago defeated Chesham United. Next up for Maidstone United will be League Two side Barrow.

On Tuesday, Elokobi’s side bounced back from their heavy 5-2 loss against Hampton and Richmond Borough. The Stones won a Kent derby against Dover Athletic. Levi Amantchi netted the decisive goal, his 16th of the season.

Current Form

Dartford (WDLWLW) Maidstone United  (DDWWLW)
Worthing A 4-3 Dover Athletic H 1-0
Chelmsford City H 1-2 Hampton & Richmond A 2-5
Weston-super-Mare H 4-2 Eastbourne Borough H 2-0
Hemel Hempstead A 1-2 Chesham United (FAC) A 2-0
Eastbourne Borough A 1-1 Weston-super-Mare A 1-1
Havant & Waterlooville H 2-0 Welling United H 0-0

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 47 / Draws: 19

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/04/2022 – National South)
Maidstone United 4 – 0 Dartford (11/12/2021 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 3 Dartford (02/10/2021 – F.A Cup)
Maidstone United 0 – 2 Dartford (14/11/2020 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 1 Dartford (21/01/2020 – Kent Senior Cup)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (26/11/2019 – F.A Trophy)

Statistics

  • Dartford have lost their last two against Maidstone United. In their previous 13 they had just lost once (W8, D4)
  • The Darts have failed to win their last five against the Stones at home (D3*, L2)
  • This will be the 39th cup meeting between the two sides with Dartford leading the head to head (W19, D5*, L14)
    * – lost one on penalties
  • Wall could make his 50th Dartford appearance (29 starts, 20 substitute, 21 goals)

On This Day

Lyle Della-Verde scored twice in a 4-1 win over Gloucester City six years ago. The midfielder netted either side of half-time. Warren Mfula opened the scoring and Alfie Pavey added a fourth. The visitors grabbed a consolation late on.

Dartford’s only home defeat on this day was the first time they played on 18 November in 1899. The Darts were beaten 5-0 by Woolwich Arsenal Reserves in the Kent League. Since then, Dartford have gone ten unbeaten on their own patch with six wins and four draws.

One of those draws came in the F.A Cup first round at Watling Street in 1989. The Darts earned a replay against Football League opposition Exeter City. Andy Hessenthaler’s goal in front of over 3000 fans secured a 1-1 draw. Unfortunately, the Darts couldn’t cause an upset in the return fixture.

Season Preview 2023/2024

Maidstone United

Reaching the last eight of the F.A Trophy was Maidstone United’s highlight last season after finishing bottom of the National League. Relegation after one season back in non-league’s top flight, the Stones claimed just five victories, conceded over one hundred goals and finished twenty five points from safety. Maidstone United last tasted league victory on 26 November, by January Hakan Heyrettin was sacked and at close of play they had gone twenty-five matches without a win. It got even worse for their former manager, going down with Dulwich Hamlet. Ex-Dartford striker, Jack Barham top scored for the Kent club in a season Stones fans will quickly want to forget. Instead, they can reminisce over their last campaign in the National South when they went up as champions.

2022/2023 Season
National League: 24th
F.A Cup: 4th Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: Quarter-Final
County Cup: 2nd Round
Top League Scorer: Jack Barham (9 goals)

Manager – George Elokobi

It’s been just over a year since Elokobi retired from playing football, which included a career that took him from Dulwich Hamlet to the Premier League. The former defender was spotted at Hamlet at an early age by Colchester United and four years later he was playing at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Championship. Wolves won the league to gain promotion to the Premier League, where they stayed for three seasons. Elokobi moved on with spells at Oldham Athletic, a return to Colchester United, Leyton Orient and Aldershot Town before becoming a fans favourite at Maidstone United. 

Summer Transfers

Following relegation there has been a bit of a clear out as George Elokobi sets to shape a new look squad. Devonte Aransiba and Chi Ezennolim come in from Kent sides Tonbridge Angels and Welling United, Lamar Reynolds joins from Braintree Town, Levi Amantchi from Brackley Town and Razzaq Coleman De-Graft from Lewes. After impressing on trial Conor Kelly and Ogo Obi join the Stones.

Transfers In Transfers Out
Devonte Aransibia (Tonbridge Angels) Jerome Binnom-Williams (Dulwich Hamlet)
Razzaq Coleman De-Graft (Lewes) Regan Booty (Gateshead)
Lamar Reynolds (Braintree Town) Dominic Odusanya (Welling United)
Chi Ezennolim (Welling United) Joan Luque (Worthing)
Levi Amantchi (Brackley Town) Tom Hadler (Ramsgate)
Ogo Obi (Slough Town) Tushaun Walters (Hastings United)
Conor Kelly Roarie Deacon (Havant and Waterlooville)
  Jack Cawley (Wellington Olympic)
  Mark Marshall
  James Alabi
  Yusuf Mersin
  Henry Woods

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 47 / Draws: 19

Previous Matches

Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (18/04/2022 – National South)
Maidstone United 4 – 0 Dartford (11/12/2021 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 3 Dartford (02/10/2021 – F.A Cup)
Maidstone United 0 – 2 Dartford (14/11/2020 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 1 Dartford (21/01/2020 – Kent Senior Cup)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (26/11/2019 – F.A Trophy)

Next Meetings

Maidstone United v Dartford – Saturday 2nd December 2023
Dartford v Maidstone United – Saturday 16th March 2024

Statistics

  • Dartford have lost their last two league games against Maidstone United. Prior those defeats the Darts were unbeaten in eight league matches versus the Stones (W6, D2)
  • Dartford’s current streak of three without a league win at home against the Stones (D2, L1) is their longest since 1922 to 1923 (D2, L1)
  • The Darts had won four league games in a row at Maidstone United before the 4-0 reverse in December 2021

Match Highlights – 2021/2022

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Dartford v Maidstone United

Dartford can have a say in the National South title race on Easter Monday when they host rivals Maidstone United.

A bumper crowd is expected for this Kent derby and with the Darts protecting their unbeaten home run and the Stones top of the table there is plenty up for grabs. Dartford secured a playoff place on Good Friday and they will want to derail their rivals bid for the title and promotion back to the National League after a three year absence.

Steve King has led the Darts to 17 home games in the National South without defeat and are currently on a seven match unbeaten league run home and away. However, with five fixtures remaining they are ten points adrift from the Stones and six behind second place Dorking Wanderers. Dartford warmed up ahead of the Kent derby with an away day at Billericay Town in which former Maidstone United defender started for the first time in over a month. Midfielder’s Luke Allen and Keiran Murtagh were back in the starting eleven and Jake Robinson was preferred to Ade Azeez up front. Two second-half strikes from Jack Jebb and Marcus Dinanga earned the Darts a 2-0 victory. Dinanga has now scored in four consecutive league games and has eight in just ten appearances since joining Dartford.

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Dartford make it a Good Friday against Billericay Town – Dartford FC TV

The Darts will want to put behind them and avenge the defeat suffered at the Gallagher Stadium back in December. Maidstone United won 4-0 that day and to rub salt into Dartford’s wound, former striker Jack Barham scored a hat-trick and he has three of those this term. Defeat ended a run of seven unbeaten at the time and displaced the Darts from the top of the table. Instead, the Darts will want to reproduce the kind of performance that earned them a 3-0 victory at the same venue in the F.A Cup two months earlier. Goals from Noor Husin, Danny Leonard and Ade Azeez ensured King’s men had the bragging rights back then and a foot in the next round.

Since Dartford’s cup victory the tables have turned as Maidstone United’s form since late November propelled them to the summit. The Stones have won 18 of their last 22 league games, drawing twice and losing twice. A sticky patch for the Darts from October to January saw them playing catch up, but an excellent win against title challengers Dorking Wanderers got them back in with a shout a month ago. However, a loss at Chippenham Town and few more draws mean they are likely to finish in the playoffs.

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Dartford win the F.A Cup tie at the Gallagher Stadium – Dartford FC TV

In this fixture the Darts are unbeaten at home in the league since 1978 and a former Maidstone United player could help them maintain that record on Monday. Jake Robinson could potentially make an impact in front of goal if selected against the Stones, the striker had a brief spell with Maidstone United between December 2018 and March 2019 scoring just twice in eleven appearances.

Prior the heavy reverse four months ago, the Darts had completed a three game winning streak against their rivals in all competitions without conceding. What is more impressive is all those matches came on the road. The aforementioned F.A Cup triumph came after a 2-0 victory at the Gallagher Stadium last season in which Tom Bonner and Charlie Sheringham scored in the final twelve minutes. In January 2020, the Darts progressed in a Kent Senior Cup tie with a 1-0 win, Ky Marsh-Brown scored the decisive goal. Dartford went on to lift the cup with the final being played this season. It was the fourth time the two teams faced each other in that campaign, the previous three came within a space of ten days.

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Dartford’s last game against Maidstone United – Dartford FC TV

A pair of 2-2 draws, firstly in the National South then in the F.A Trophy proved it was difficult to separate the two rivals. In the league game, Dartford made a dramatic late comeback at home after Dan Wishart and Ibby Akanbi scored in three second-half minutes. However, Bonner scored with just three minutes on the clock and Darren McQueen levelled with a minute to go in the last league meeting played between the two at Princes Park.

In the F.A Trophy, Elliott Romain scored twice against his former club as Dartford came from behind twice. Maidstone United took the lead through Wishart and again when Justin Amaluzor scored. The replay back at Princes Park was decided when Iffy Allen netted the winner.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 46 / Draws: 19

Current League Form

Dartford
(WDWDDW)
    Maidstone United
(LWWWWW)
   
Billericay Town A 2-0 Chippenham Town A 2-1
Hemel Hempstead Town H 1-1 Havant & Waterlooville H 4-0
Oxford City A 1-1 St Albans City H 3-2
Hampton & Richmond A 1-0 Braintree Town A 2-1
Havant & Waterlooville H 1-1 Dulwich Hamlet H 2-0
Chelmsford City H 2-1 Slough Town A 1-2

Previous Meetings (last six)

Maidstone United 4 – 0 Dartford (11/12/2021 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 3 Dartford (02/10/2021 – F.A Cup)
Maidstone United 0 – 2 Dartford (14/11/2020 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 1 Dartford (21/01/2020- Kent Senior Cup)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (26/11/2019 – F.A Trophy)
Maidstone United 2 – 2 Dartford (23/11/2019 – F.A Trophy)

Stats

  • Dartford are unbeaten in their last eight home league games against Maidstone United (W4, D4)
  • The Darts can equal their unbeaten home run of 18 back in April 1979 to February 1980 if they avoid defeat on Easter Monday.
  • Dartford last went 18 home league games unbeaten from the start of a campaign in 1925/26 when they finished the Kent League First Division without defeat at home (W15, D3).

On This Day

Dartford have beaten Maidstone United twice on this day, 1-0 in the Southern Premier League back in 1977 and 3-0 in a Kent League fixture in 1913. The Stones won the other fixture also in the Southern Premier League winning 3-1 in 1974. That home defeat 48 years ago was the last time the Darts lost on their own patch on 18 April. Since then they beat Nuneaton Borough 1-0 in 1978 and drew 1-1 in the Southern League Cup Final first leg against Burton Albion. Under Peter Taylor, Dartford went on to win 2-0 in the second leg to lift the cup. Newport AFC were beaten 4-2 in the Southern League South (1998) and the Darts hit four again in 2009 against Ramsgate. A Rob Haworth brace as well as goals from Ryan Hayes and Lee Noble gave Dartford three Isthmian Premier League points.

Maidstone United v Dartford

Dartford lead the National South table and head into Saturday’s fixture against rivals Maidstone United hoping to maintain their position.

In a very competitive campaign, the Darts have a one point advantage at the summit. The Stones are just six points behind down in fifth place. A Kent derby that has already been played out earlier in the season, former players facing their old club, a top of the table clash and a healthy rivalry should make for an atmospheric afternoon.

Dartford came out on top in the F.A Cup tie back in October winning 3-0. Noor Husin’s free-kick, a Danny Leonard strike and a third from Ade Azeez made sure Steve King’s side moved into the next round. On that day King was impressed with Dartford’s commitment and ‘dogged determination’ as his players executed the ‘perfect gameplan’.

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More Dartford highlights are available at Dartford FC TV

Since the F.A Cup victory, sandwiched between beating Hungerford Town and Hemel Hempstead Town, the Darts went on a five match winless streak picking up just three points. The gap at the top closed, but others in the league have been unable to take advantage from their games in hand leaving Dartford in a strong position. On Saturday they secured top spot with a 1-0 win over bottom of the table Billericay Town. The Essex side were reduced to ten men late on when their goalkeeper was sent off and an outfield player was forced to go in goal.

King named an unchanged side to the one that knocked Bath City out of the F.A Trophy, but the performance was less than impressive, he spoke to Dartford FC TV after the game and commented: “I thought we was poor today. Told the boys that and the team talk at the end lasted ten seconds. I was disappointed”. Now seven games unbeaten in all competitions, King is just happy to bag another three points despite the performance, he explained: “You can’t play well every week, but I just know the players have got a standard in there that they have set. There have been games in the last seven where we have been back playing some fantastic football, but today we were awful”.

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Watch highlights of Dartford’s latest win via Dartford FC TV

Jake Robinson scored the winning goal against his former side and he will be one of a few players who have played for Maidstone United in the past. The striker had a short stay at the Gallagher Stadium scoring just once before re-joining Billericay Town. For Dartford he now has five league goals in as many starts. George Porter scored four goals in twelve games for the Stones last season before switching allegiances and Jordan Wynter also had a spell there but has been recently out injured for the Darts.

Since Maidstone United’s F.A Cup exit to the Darts, their seven game unbeaten league run from the start of the campaign ended. The Stones picked up just two points in the next six games dropping off the pace at the top but have managed to keep in touch with victories over Chippenham Town and Ebbsfleet United. Like the Darts they also progressed in the F.A Trophy with a penalty shoot-out triumph over Billericay Town.

After a weekend break, Maidstone United have had time to recharge after their 3-2 Kent derby win over Ebbsfleet United, denying the Fleet a chance to move above Dartford. The Stones twice came from behind helped by goals from Joan Luque and a brace by Sam Corne. Out of the former Darts at the club only Elliott Romain made an appearance from off the bench. Jack Barham was last involved as a substitute in the F.A Trophy tie and although Alfie Pavey is part of the squad, he is out on loan at Dover Athletic.

In last season’s league fixture Dartford won 2-0 but had to wait for two late goals from Tom Bonner and Charlie Sheringham. The Darts also won a Kent Senior Cup tie 1-0 in January with Ky Marsh-Brown netting the decisive goal. Dartford went on to belatedly lift the cup beating Whitstable Town 6-1 just last month.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 46 / Maidstone United wins: 45 / Draws: 19

Current League Form

Dartford
(WWDDLL)
    Maidstone United
(WWDLLD)
   
Billericay Town H 1-0 Ebbsfleet United A 3-2
Hemel Hempstead Town A 3-2 Chippenham Town H 1-0
Oxford City H 0-0 Havant & Waterlooville A 0-0
Chippenham Town H 3-3 Slough Town H 0-1
Concord Rangers A 0-1 Hungerford Town A 2-3
Dorking Wanderers A 0-1 Dulwich Hamlet A 0-0

Previous Meetings (last six)

Maidstone United 0 – 3 Dartford (02/10/2021 – F.A Cup)
Maidstone United 0 – 2 Dartford (14/11/2020 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 1 Dartford (21/01/2020- Kent Senior Cup)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (26/11/2019 – F.A Trophy)
Maidstone United 2 – 2 Dartford (23/11/2019 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 2 – 2 Maidstone United (16/11/2019 – National South)

Stats

  • Dartford have won their last three visits to the Gallagher Stadium without conceding a goal
  • The Darts are eight league games unbeaten against Maidstone United (W6, D2)
  • Maidstone United’s last league victory over Dartford was 4-1 on 3 March 2007 in the Isthmian Division One South
  • Since both sides have reformed, the Darts have won seven, drawn two and lost one in the league against the Stones

On This Day

Dartford took on big spending Crawley Town in the F.A Trophy in a memorable encounter that ended 3-3. The Red Devils were topping the National League table and won promotion to the Football League that season with a staggering 105 points, but the Darts earned a replay eventually going through. A stoppage time equaliser delayed Crawley Town’s blushes after Dartford led by two, twice in the game. Charlie Sheringham and Ryan Hayes scored, then Richard Brodie halved the deficit. Sheringham restored the two goal advantage, but the Sussex club came back with late goals from Craig McAllister and Dean Howells. In the replay three days later, Tom Champion scored the winner in a famous victory.

One game away from a prestigious F.A Cup tie with Manchester United in the F.A Cup third round, Dartford hosted a second round replay with AFC Bournemouth after a 1-1 draw. The return fixture ended 4-1 to the Cherries and the Darts were left to reflect on what could have been.

Maidstone United v Dartford

A potential F.A Cup classic could be served up this weekend as Dartford battle it out with rivals Maidstone United for a place in the final qualifying round.

The ingredients for an enthralling encounter are ready as the two highest ranked teams at this stage of the competition go head to head. The Darts lead the National South table as top scorers and with the tightest defence, the Stones are just two points behind in second place. A Kent derby, players up against former clubs and the fans back in stadiums should make for an exciting afternoon.

If the last major cup meeting is anything to go by then this tie could be a close affair. Maidstone United came out on top in the F.A Trophy after a replay, a 2-2 draw at the Gallagher Stadium was followed up by a 1-0 win at Princes Park. A week before the initial F.A Cup tie they met in the league and that also finished 2-2.

Dartford boss, Steve King highlighted how difficult the draw was to both teams, he told Dartford FC TV: “It’s one we didn’t want and probably one they didn’t want. It’s the two highest rank teams left in this initial stage. Would we have wanted another tie, an easier one? Yes, course we would, but they are probably saying the same”. Yet he remains confident his side can progress in the competition, he added: “We’ve played three away from home and have won all three so our away form is good. It’s a tough, tough game but anything can happen on the day as you have seen in previous rounds, eight sides have been knocked out from our league against lower league opposition. Both sides will go into that game thinking they can win”.

Dartford’s last two trips to the Gallagher Stadium have ended in victories. In January of last year, they met for the fourth time that season, the Darts won by a single goal in the Kent Senior Cup with Ky Marsh-Brown scoring the winner. In last season’s league fixture Dartford won 2-0 but had to wait for two late goals from Tom Bonner and Charlie Sheringham.

Steve King’s side have been scoring for fun over the last three games bagging five in the F.A Cup tie against Hythe Town, six versus local rivals Welling United and on Tuesday notched another five in their London Senior Cup debut. The Darts came from behind twice when they hosted Athletic Newham to finally win 5-2. King selected a mixture of senior players needing some game time and academy players handing debuts to a number of youngsters. After falling behind, George Porter equalised from the spot to level the time going into half-time. Athletic Newham went ahead again in the second half but braces from Emmanual Sonupe and Dan Roberts sealed a passage to the next round against Sporting Bengal or Cockfosters. Dartford have now hit five or more goals in three consecutive games for the first time since 1975.

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Maidstone United have dropped just four points in the National South with two draws in their last four league games. Only Hampton and Richmond Borough and most recently Concord Rangers have taken points off the Stones. Hakan Hayrettin’s side began their campaign with three straight victories over Hemel Hempstead Town, Chelmsford City and Billericay Town. Their other wins came against Oxford City and in their most recent game Bath City.

Hakan Hayrettin believed the second half against Bath City made a statement, he told www.kentonline.co.uk: “If we can grind out results at places like this – make no mistake, Bath are a very good team – then that shows me where we’re at”, he added: “You’re never going to be perfect every game but I felt that second-half performance was as close to perfect as you’re going to get”. Spaniard, Joan Luque has been in form this term with seven goals from left wing, he scored a double on the weekend earning praise from his boss, Hayrettin commented: “The way I’m playing him here suits him at the moment. It’s amazing to have the goals he’s got by the end of September”.

Luque also found the back of the net in the last round of the F.A Cup as Maidstone United beat Isthmian South East side Chichester City. The Stones had to wait until early in the second half before Luque opened the scoring, but Chichester City’s Tyrone Madhani equalised. Christie Pattison and Roarie Deacon added to the Stones tally to secure a 3-1 triumph.

Both Dartford and Maidstone United have former players in their squad, George Porter scored four goals in twelve games for the Stones last season before switching allegiances. This term for the Darts he has managed three goals in eight appearances. Jordan Wynter and Jake Robinson also had spells at the Gallagher Stadium, Wynter made eight appearances before joining the Darts on loan then making a permanent move. Jake Robinson had a short stay at the Stones between his two spells at Billericay Town. The pair have been struggling with injury recently and may not feature depending on their fitness.

Alfie Pavey had an outstanding time with the Darts under Tony Burman during the 2017/2018 campaign. The striker scored 27 goals as Dartford came close to winning the National South title before he joined the champions of that season Havant and Waterlooville. In the summer he joined Maidstone United, the club where it all began for him. Although his been restricted to mainly substitute appearances he did start in the last F.A Cup round against Chichester City in which he missed a penalty, but he does have two goals this term from three starts and five substitute appearance. Jack Barham is another former Dart who joined the Stones in the summer, but he has yet to feature due to injury, but the striker is back in training. He made 15 appearances last season and scored two goals for the Darts.

Saturday’s clash will be the seventh F.A Cup meeting between the two teams with Dartford leading the head to head record after winning the first five. The most recent victory in the F.A Cup against the Stones was a 2-0 home win in 1962. Maidstone United recorded the same score to progress in 1987, both those ties earned a place in the first round for the victors.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 45 / Maidstone United wins: 45 / Draws: 19

Current Form

Dartford
(WWWDWW)
    Maidstone United
(WWDWDW)
   
Athletic Newham (LSC) H 5-2 Bath City A 3-0
Welling United A 6-0 Chichester City (FAC) A 3-1
Hythe Town (FAC) H 5-1 Concord Rangers H 2-2
Tonbridge Angels H 1-1 Oxford City A 3-1
Bath City A 3-1 Hampton & Richmond A 1-1
Eastbourne Borough H 3-1 Billericay Town H 1-0

Previous Six Meetings

Maidstone United 0 – 2 Dartford (14/11/2020 – National South)
Maidstone United 0 – 1 Dartford (21/01/2020- Kent Senior Cup)
Dartford 0 – 1 Maidstone United (26/11/2019 – F.A Trophy)
Maidstone United 2 – 2 Dartford (23/11/2019 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 2 – 2 Maidstone United (16/11/2019 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Maidstone United (22/01/2019 – Kent Senior Cup)*
*Maidstone United won 8-7 on penalties

Stats

  • Dartford have made it to the fourth qualifying round in four of the last seven seasons. Maidstone United have made it to the last qualifying round in six of their last seven campaigns
  • The Darts have scored five or more in their last three games, they have never scored five or more goals in four consecutive matches
  • Dartford are six away games unbeaten against the Stones in all competitions
  • Maidstone United’s last home win in this fixture was a 4-1 Isthmian Division One South victory on 3 March 2007
  • Across all cup competitions Dartford have won 19, drawn 5 and lost 14

On This Day

Dartford have always progressed to the next round of the F.A Cup when playing on 2 October. In 2007, Camberley Town took the Darts all the way drawing 2-2 to force a replay. Dartford were held to a 0-0 draw after extra time and had to endure penalties. Tony Kessell was the hero with twp penalty saves whilst Jamie Coyle, Steve Norman, Eddie McClements and Adam Flanagan all scored their spot kicks. In 1982, Tonbridge were beaten 3-2, Lloyds Sittingbourne were defeated 2-1 in 1948 and Beckenham lost 3-1 in 1926.