Tag: National South (Page 6 of 14)

Concord Rangers v Dartford

April 19, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford aim to make their game in hand count against bottom side Concord Rangers on Thursday night as they push to secure second place.

The Darts can extend their lead over Oxford City and Chelmsford City to five points going into the final two games of the season with a consecutive away victory. Dartford put their away day troubles behind them on a weekend that saw the chasing sides pile on the pressure with victories of their own. Dowson’s men have failed to win back to back fixtures on the road since the purple patch in December and into January when they beat Havant and Waterlooville, champions Ebbsfleet United and Cheshunt. Concord Rangers will be on their third game of the week and after Tuesday night’s result have given themselves a glimmer of hope.

Dartford are guaranteed a playoff spot after ending their run of six away games without a win in the league by beating Tonbridge Angels on the weekend. The Darts have now gone unbeaten in Kent derbies after inflicting doubles over champions Ebbsfleet United, Dover Athletic and now Tonbridge Angels, picking up an astonishing 22 points from a maximum of 24, only Welling United managed to take anything from the Darts in the league. However, inconsistent form has seen Dartford alternate between winning and losing for the last seven matches and since the start of February they have not recorded consecutive wins, draws or losses. Heading towards the playoffs now is the time for Dowson and company to find consistency and build momentum.

Malachai Napa was given his first league start in nearly a month and rewarded Alan Dowson’s decision with the only goal of the game. The winger was one of four changes from the side that lost to Taunton Town a week ago. With four games in eight days, the Dartford boss shuffled his side by bringing in Napa, Sam Odaudu, Keiran Murtagh and Jack Smith for Jernade Meade, who has now served his one match suspension, Jordan Wynter, Bobby Dunn and Marvin Herschel.

Tonbridge Angels enjoyed most of the possession throughout the Kent derby, but resolute Dartford defending restricted the hosts. The decisive moment came in the 24th minute when goalkeeper Ben Dudzinski sent a long ball forward which fell to Napa. Breaking through the Angels backline the 23-year- old made sure the Darts took an important lead. Keeping out Tonbridge Angels secured three points and earned Dartford their first away clean sheet since August, a third on the road this season and first in 19 matches in all competitions.

Christian Jolley spoke to Dartford FC TV after the game and commented: “I thought the boys were outstanding, to a man they were brilliant, it was a real squad performance. After the week we’ve had and the miles we’ve covered in regard to pitch action we thought it was a really important game to try and get a result. We had to do it differently by being patient and using our energy reserves wisely”.

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Match Highlights – Concord Rangers v Dartford (02/11/2021) – Dartford FC TV

Last time Dartford travelled across the River Thames to take on the Beachboys they lost 1-0 on a cold November evening. Lemar Reynolds scored the decisive goal to separate the two teams. It was just as tight two months later when a goalless draw was played out at Princes Park.

However, the Darts got the better of Concord Rangers earlier this season thanks to the influential Samir Carruthers. The midfielder stood out and opened the scoring in the first half with a deflected effort, but Mo Bettamer levelled the score from the spot just before the break. A neat move in the second-half saw Pierre Fonkeu swivel and shoot beyond goalkeeper Mitch Beeney to regain Dartford’s lead. Maximum points were secured when Dan Wilks’ drop kick found its way to the edge of the Concord Rangers box. A lack of communication between Beeney and Aron Pollock led to the defender passing the ball into his own goal.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Concord Rangers (26/11/2022) – Dartford FC TV

If fit Alex Wall could face his former club, a team he helped reached the F.A Trophy final in May 2021 scoring the winner in the semi-final. The striker had two spells with the Beachboys scoring 32 goals in 53 games. Wall has been back training this week and so has well as Charlie Sheringham, so they could play a part against Concord Rangers. Dowson is also confident midfielder Samir Carruthers can make a return, whilst Jernade Meade returns from suspension. Former Dart, Ricky Modeste could feature for Concord Rangers, the winger only made three appearances for Dartford in the 2020/2021 campaign.

Concord Rangers have lost every game against sides in the top six and have picked up just one point from those in the current top ten. However on Tuesday night they faced a struggling Dover Athletic side a grabbed a crucial three points. Nana Kyei’s cross was finished by Lewis Manor in the only goal of the game leaving the Beachboys nine points from safety with five matches to go.

The heavy end of season schedule could play a huge part in whether the Essex club remain in the division. Last weekend they were comprehensively beaten away at Bath City losing 4-0. That defeat came after a relegation scrap with Hungerford Town in which Concord Rangers won 1-0, and victory over Dover Athletic was just their second in nine outings. The Beachboys need to cram in their final fixtures over the nine days remaining of the season and by the time they take on Dulwich Hamlet it could be a vital six pointer.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 6 / Concord Rangers wins: 4 / Draws: 4

Current League Form

Dartford (LWLWLW)			Concord Rangers (LLLWLW)
Tonbridge Angels	A	1-0	Dover Athletic	H	1-0
Taunton Town	H	0-1	Bath City	A	0-4
Dover Athletic	H	2-1	Hungerford Town	H	1-0
Eastbourne Borough	A	1-2	St Albans City	H	1-2
Dulwich Hamlet	H	3-0	Worthing	A	0-7
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Taunton Town	A	0-1

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 3 – 1 Concord Rangers (26/11/2022 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 0 Concord Rangers (25/01/2022 – National South)
Concord Rangers 1 – 0 Dartford (02/11/2021 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Concord Rangers (21/12/2019 – National South)
Concord Rangers 0 – 2 Dartford (14/09/2019 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Concord Rangers (26/01/2019 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford have won just one of their last five trips to Concord Rangers (D2, L2).
The Darts have scored once in each of their last five away games.
Tom Bonner made his 450th start for Dartford in the win at Tonbridge Angels on Saturday.

On This Day

Dartford were defeated in the first leg of the Southern League Cup final on this day in 1988. The reliable Peter Taylor missed a penalty as Bromsgrove Rovers won 3-1 giving the Darts a mammoth task, only two teams had ever overturned a two goal deficit in the Southern League Cup final before. Six days later and despite another miss from the spot, Dartford won 3-0 in the second leg with goals from Garry Britnell, Kurt Davidson and Colin Johnson handing the cup to the Darts. It wasn’t so glorious in Dartford’s last away trip on 20 April, they lost 6-0 down in Eastbourne four years ago.

Tonbridge Angels v Dartford

April 14, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford are back on the road this weekend when they make the short trip to Tonbridge Angels in their final Kent derby of the season.

The Darts are just one win away from securing a playoff place which they failed to do on Thursday night after a home loss against Taunton Town. A third defeat in five leaves Dartford just short of their target and under pressure to maintain their position in second place. Alan Dowson’s side could end up taking on Tonbridge Angels if their opponents make the top seven, they are currently just three points adrift and unbeaten in their last three home matches.

Kent derbies have yielded an impressive 19 points from a possible 21 for the Darts this season with only Welling United taking anything from the Darts. Earlier in the campaign goals from Samir Carruthers and Pierre Fonkeu earned Dartford a 2-0 home win over the Angels. Carruthers has been pivotal this term with his creativity, but the midfielder’s injury against Eastbourne Borough on Good Friday looks to have put him out for the rest of the campaign. The 30-year-old scored direct from a corner in the reverse fixture back in October at Princes Park and was involved in the second goal as well. Flicking on a header for Charlie Sheringham, who had his shot saved only to see Fonkeu scramble the ball over the line.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Tonbridge Angels (15/10/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Sheringham is another on the treatment table after his rib injury picked up against Chippenham Town in February, Tommy Block is not likely to feature this term and Jernade Meade will be suspended. Alex Wall was rested on Easter Monday after picking up a calf strain, the striker was left out again on Thursday night. Captain, Tom Bonner could make his 450th start for the club this weekend.

Dowson made three changes on Thursday night against Taunton Town to the side that beat Dover Athletic with a late Luke Allen strike on Easter Monday. The midfielder was rewarded by being selected, Bobby Dunn made his first start since joining the Darts and Marvin Herschel made his first league appearance since October. Dropping to the bench, Richard Chin, Jack Smith and Fonkeu were on standby. The visitors started the better and saw Ollie Chamberlain strike the woodwork before Nat Jarvis tapped in the rebound only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. The Darts responded when they hit the post after Allen’s teasing cross and later in the first-half his shot came off the crossbar. Very little happened in the second forty five until Taunton Town’s Cameron Evans netted a winner with three minutes to go.

Home advantage in the playoffs could be crucial for the Darts, especially having failed to win away from home since the beginning of January, a run of six league games. Dartford let a lead slip against Eastbourne Borough and picked up just one point out of the two games versus Hungerford Town and Weymouth, both sides in the relegation zone. The point at Braintree Town in February was creditable considering the Iron were in form at the time and the Darts showed character to comeback twice at Welling United. A poor performance at Worthing started the barren spell on the road, which Dowson and company will be keen to end on Saturday.

Tonbridge Angels have only lost once at home against teams above them in the table, but Dartford’s last visit to Longmead finished in an entertaining 3-2 victory. Danny Leonard set the Darts on their way scoring a brace in the opening twenty minutes. However, Tommy Wood halved the deficit and after the Darts restored a two-goal cushion through Jack Jebb, the Angels added a consolation through Ibrahim Olutade.

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Match Highlights – Tonbridge Angels v Dartford (29/01/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Manager, Jay Saunders has turned Tonbridge Angels into a team challenging for the playoffs after the club finished 16th last season. The postponement of the Farnborough game on Easter Monday means the Angels last played on Good Friday when they drew 1-1 with Hemel Hempstead Town. Former Dartford striker, Jordan Greenidge wasn’t allowed to play against his parent club, but he will be available on Saturday.

At this level Greenidge is a goal threat having netted six in eight games for the Darts last season. This term the striker has scored 16 times in 23 appearances for Tonbridge Angels and four in 15 with Hemel Hempstead Town. The Darts could do with Meade’s knowledge of the striker having spent time with the Tudors earlier this term, he will also know all about Craig Braham-Barrett as he linked up with the defender on international duty for Montserrat last month. Braham-Barrett is another former Dart who spent two seasons at Princes Park making 29 appearances.

Since the New Year’s Day defeat at Welling United, the Angels have shown solid form in 2023. They have only lost three of their last 17 league fixtures and two of were away against Chelmsford City and Oxford City, the two sides chasing the Darts for that second place finish. In that time they picked up their fourth point versus champions Ebbsfleet United with a 1-1 draw racked up eight victories. Over the past month if they could have turned a few draws into wins then they would be in that top seven.

On Good Friday, Joe Turner opened the scoring with a decent finish past ex Dartford goalkeeper Craig King in the Hemel Hempstead Town goal. However, the lead lasted less than ten minutes when Josh Castiglione equalised as the spoils were shared. It was Tonbridge Angels’ third draw in five having earned a point at home to Ebbsfleet United and another away at Havant and Waterlooville. Prior their match over Easter, the Angels were involved in plenty of goals clinging on to beat Hungerford Town 4-3 before being on the wrong end of a 4-0 defeat at Oxford City.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 71 / Tonbridge Angels wins: 38 / Draws: 25

Current League Form

Dartford (WLWLWL)			Tonbridge Angels (WDDWLD)
Taunton Town	H	0-1	Hemel Hempstead Town	H	1-1
Dover Athletic	H	2-1	Oxford City	A	0-4
Eastbourne Borough	A	1-2	Hungerford Town	H	4-3
Dulwich Hamlet	H	3-0	Havant & Waterlooville	A	1-1
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Ebbsfleet United	H	1-1
Farnborough	H	3-1	Eastbourne Borough	A	2-1

Previous Meeting

Dartford 2 – 0 Tonbridge Angels (15/10/2022 – National South)
Tonbridge Angels 2 – 3 Dartford (29/01/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Tonbridge Angels (11/09/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Tonbridge Angels (05/01/2021 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 0 Tonbridge Angels (28/12/2019 – National South)
Tonbridge Angels 3 – 2 Dartford (03/09/2019 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford have lost just one of the last 15 games against Tonbridge Angels (W12, D2)
The Darts have won five of the last six away matches against the Angels (W5, L1)
Dartford are winless in seven consecutive away matches in all competitions (D3, L4). The last time they went eight games without an away win in a single season was in 2013/2014 (D4, L11)

On This Day

Dartford have won their last three on this day including the 2-0 win at Billericay Town a year ago. Second-half strikes from Jebb and Marcus Dinanga was enough to beat the side who ended up relegated at the end of the season. That was also one of three consecutive away clean sheets on 15 April. In 2010, the Darts romped to a 4-0 victory at Waltham Abbey. Goals by James White, Lee Noble, Carl Rook and Lee Burns helped Dartford add another three points in their Isthmian Division One North title winning campaign. A 0-0 draw at Tunbridge Wells in a 1995 Kent League fixture was the other clean sheet on the road. Dartford last conceded on the road on this day in 1989 against Macclesfield Town and they managed it four times in the F.A Trophy semi-final second leg. The reverse fixture ended 0-0 at Watling Street, but the Silkmen stopped Peter Taylor’s side heading to Wembley winning 4-1 on aggregate. However, Dartford did lift some silverware on 15 April back in 1939 when they beat Northfleet United 4-0 in the Kent Senior Shield final.

Dartford v Taunton Town

April 12, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford can secure a playoff place with a win in their penultimate home game of the regular season against Taunton Town on Thursday night.

With a top seven spot all but guaranteed, the Darts are aiming to finish second to earn them home advantage in the playoffs and a bye into the semi-final. A third home win in four on Easter Monday in the Kent derby against Dover Athletic edged Alan Dowson’s side closer to their target. Taunton Town have hit good form winning three on the bounce to virtually make sure they will be playing National South football next season.

Dartford are two points ahead of closest rivals Oxford City with two games in hand and five to play. Three more wins will make sure the Darts claim second and keep the rest of the playoff contenders at bay. So Dowson’s men will be eager to avoid double defeat against Taunton Town who won the reverse fixture back in August.

Eight months ago, Davide Rodari scored the opener at Wordsworth Drive even though he looked second best when he chasing down Sam Odaudu’s long ball, but a mix up at the back between goalkeeper Jack Bycroft and centre half Dan Ball allowed Rodari to get between the pair, round the keeper and slot into an empty net. Another long ball caused problems with 15 minutes to go, this time for the Darts. Tom Bonner was caught out and substitute Dave Sims-Burgess took advantage to equalise. Then four minutes later another sub won it for the Peacocks, Ross Stearn poked home from close range.

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Highlights – Taunton Town v Dartford (20/08/2022) – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

On Monday, Dowson made one change following the 2-1 Good Friday defeat at Eastbourne Borough. Striker, Alex Wall picked up a calf strain during the loss in Sussex meaning Pierre Fonkeu was selected in the Kent derby against Dover Athletic. Wall joined an injury list which already included Charlie Sheringham, Samir Carruthers and Tommy Block. Despite Jernade Meade’s red card at Eastbourne, the full back will not start his suspension until Saturday against Tonbridge Angels.

Harvey Bradbury helped Dartford on their way to a sixth Kent derby win in the National League after just five minutes. The striker capitalised on a defensive mix up to score for the second game in a row, his fourth in five appearances since joining the club. Bradbury had the ball in the back of the net again, but his effort was ruled out for offiside. From that moment Dover Athletic gained control and before the first-half was out Jordan Higgs equalised. The Darts got to grips with proceedings in the second-half and with seven minutes to go substitute Luke Allen finished superbly to win it for the hosts.

Taunton Town have been playing catch up after a series of postponements throughout the season. The Peacocks now have a heavy fixture list and their trip to Princes Park will be their fifth game in April out of ten scheduled. At the beginning of the month a modest points total had the Somerset side looking like they would be involved in a relegation battle, however realistically having played fewer matches they were really in a false league position. Five wins in seven has seen Rob Dray’s team on the verge of securing National South football for only their second ever season. Taunton Town need just four points from their remaining six fixtures.

Over Easter, one of the tightest defences in the division kept a consecutive clean sheet on Good Friday. Following a 1-0 win against bottom side Concord Rangers in which Lee Lucas netted the winner, the Peacocks kept out Bath City in a 2-0 victory. It took the Somerset club 76 minutes to break the deadlock when Cameron Evans scored from close range. Victory was secured with eight minutes on the clock, Dylan Morgan finishing from just inside the penalty box.

Dray was forced to make two changes for the Easter Monday clash with Slough Town. Suspensions to Lucas and Nat Jarvis meant Nick McCootie and Morgan were handed starts. Jarvis will be available to return against the Darts, but Lucas still has two games to serve. A last minute winner was enough for the Peacocks to claim a 2-1 victory. The hosts took the lead from a corner headed in by Jake Wannell. Slough Town hit back on the stroke of half-time when Matt Lench levelled. Then during second-half injury Morgan grabbed a winner for Taunton Town.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 0 / Taunton Town wins: 1 / Draws: 0

Current League Form

Dartford (DWLWLW)			Taunton Town (WLLWWW)
Dover Athletic	H	2-1	Slough Town	H	2-1
Eastbourne Borough	A	1-2	Bath City	A	2-0
Dulwich Hamlet	H	3-0	Concord Rangers	H	1-0
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Ebbsfleet United	H	0-1
Farnborough	H	3-1	Hampton & Richmond	A	1-3
Hungerford Town	A	1-1	Braintree Town	A	2-0

Previous Meeting

Taunton Town 2 – 1 Dartford (20/08/2022 – National South)

Statistics

The Darts have won all ten home games against sides currently 14th and below in the league, Taunton Town are 15th.
Dartford have conceded one fewer than the best defence in the league. Taunton Town have conceded the fewest goals (44) in the division, joint with champions Ebbsfleet United.
The Darts have not gone three unbeaten at home in the league since their eight game winning streak from 24 September 2022 to 26 November 2022

On This Day

Paul Sawyer lifted the Kent Senior Trophy on this day in 1996 after the Darts beat Chatham Town 3-0 in the final. Dean Bowey, Ricky Bennett and Sean Bristow all scored at Park View Road to give Tony Burman’s black and white army some deserved silverware. Dartford’s last outing on 13 April was four years ago and ended in defeat at Princes Park. Nat Jarvis and Nick McCootie, now of Taunton Town were in the Chippenham Town side that won 1-0. Defeat in 2019 ended a three game winning streak on this day without conceding a goal. In 2009, Lee Noble, Adam Flanagan, Rob Haworth and Ryan Hayes all scored in a 4-0 win over Canvey Island in the Isthmian Premier League. A year later in the same division Allan Tait scored the only goal of the game against Harrow Borough and in 2013, Charlie Sheringham netted the winner as the Darts beat Stockport County 1-0 in the National League.

Dartford v Dover Athletic

April 9, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford’s quest for securing a runner up spot continues this Easter Monday in their final home Kent derby of the season against rivals Dover Athletic.

In league competition, the Darts have fared extremely well in local derbies this term dropping just two points from their six so far and winning all three at Princes Park. In their last home game, Dartford bounced back from defeat with a resounding 4-0 victory over Dulwich Hamlet before travelling away to Eastbourne Borough on Good Friday. Dover Athletic look set to be playing National South football again next season, their last away trip saw the Whites end a four game losing streak before hosting Welling United.

Down in Sussex, the Darts fell to another away defeat in the league stretching their winless streak on the road to six. Yet it all looked good at by the end of the first half when Harvey Bradbury gave the Darts a 1-0 lead. The striker headed in his third goal for the club in four appearances. However the afternoon soon unravelled early in the second half when Eastbourne Borough scored twice in as many minutes. First Leone Gravata pounced to level, then Luke Pearce put the hosts ahead. The task was hard enough to mount a comeback after hat-trick hero from the Dulwich Hamlet win, Alex Wall was taken off in the first-half and things were to get worse at 2-1 down. Jernade Meade was already on a caution before another incident saw the defender pick up another resulting in his dismissals. To compound matters after Dowson had used up all his substitutes, Samir Carruthers was injured leaving the Darts with nine men. Early player news is that Wall has a calf strain, whilst Carruthers could be out for the rest of the season.

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Match Highlights – Eastbourne Borough v Dartford (07/04/2023) – Dartford FC TV

Meanwhile, Dover Athletic kept a clean sheet on Good Friday but were unable to breach Welling United’s defence in a goalless Kent derby at the Crabble. The hosts enjoyed the better chances in a fairly even fixture which failed to produce any clear cut opportunities for either side. Although the draw followed up an excellent 3-1 away win at Braintree Town, the Whites have now failed to score in their last four home outings.

Back in September, the Darts won their first Kent derby of the campaign winning 3-1 at the Crabble. All the goals came before the break with the returning Samir Carruthers scoring a well-crafted opener. Luke Coulson was also back in the starting eleven on that Tuesday night and his selection was justified when he chipped in a second, the winger had already set up Carruthers for the first. A productive 18-minute spell ended when Maxwell Statham put Dartford out of sight. However, the hosts managed to pull one back through Luke Baptiste.

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Match Highlights – Dover Athletic v Dartford (13/09/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Dartford have now won their last three against their opponents stretching back to December 2016. That game came in the first round of the F.A Trophy and after a 1-1 draw at Princes Park, in which Ronnie Vint equalised, the two sides faced each other again in a replay. Vint was at it again three days later at the Crabble scoring the leveller after Jim Stevenson had the hosts in front. This time the Darts managed to find a winner when Luke Wanadio curled home a low shot, the winger who had three spells with the Darts is now at Dover Athletic. Wanadio came close to reaching 100 Dartford appearances needing just one more game before leaving and scored 18 times for the club.

Last season, the Darts began their defence of the Kent Senior Cup against the Whites winning a second round tie in March 2022. Jordan Greenidge scored twice on his debut to send Dartford on their way and like this season Baptiste scored a consolation goal. Princes Park last hosted a league game versus Dover Athletic during the 2014/2015 National League campaign. Lining up against the Darts in September 2014 was central defensive pairing Connor Essam and Tom Bonner, whilst Tyrone Sterling was also in the starting eleven for the Whites.

Essam had three loan and two permanent spells with Dover Athletic making 151 appearances for the club in total, chipping in with nine goals. Bonner was on loan at the Crabble between August 2014 and January 2015 and played 22 times for the Whites. Sterling is currently in his third spell at Dover Athletic and during the 2013/2014 campaign made 36 appearances in the National League for the Darts. To complete the list of former players Emmanuel Adebowale played just three times over a two-year period between 2017 and 2019 for Dover Athletic.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 15 / Dover Athletic wins: 11 / Draws: 12

Current League Form

Dartford (LDWLWL)			Dover Athletic (LLLLWD)
Eastbourne Borough	A	1-2	Welling United	H	0-0
Dulwich Hamlet	H	4-0	Braintree Town	A	3-1
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	St Albans City	A	0-1
Farnborough	H	3-1	Hampton & Richmond	H	0-3
Hungerford Town	A	1-1	Chippenham Town	A	1-3
Weymouth	A	1-3	Cheshunt	H	0-3

Last Six Meetings

Dover Athletic 1 – 3 Dartford (13/09/2022 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Dover Athletic (08/03/2022 – Kent Senior Cup)
Dover Athletic 1 – 2 Dartford (13/12/2016 – F.A Trophy)
Dartford 1 – 1 Dover Athletic (10/12/2016 – F.A Trophy)
Dover Athletic 6 – 1 Dartford (17/01/2015 – National League)
Dartford 2 – 1 Dover Athletic (16/09/2014 – National League)

Statistics

Dartford have lost just once in the league at home versus Dover Athletic (W4, D4)
The Darts have won the last three league games at home against the Whites with an aggregate score of 9-2
Tom Bonner has now made 450 Dartford appearances (447 starts, 3 substitute appearances and 19 goals)
Dartford have gained the most points in Kent derbies this season, Dover Athletic have picked up the fewest

	Pld	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
Dartford	6	5	1	0	20	5	16
Tonbridge	7	3	1	3	10	8	10
Welling	7	2	4	1	8	10	10
Ebbsfleet	7	2	2	3	9	13	8
Dover	7	0	2	5	4	15	2

On This Day

Dartford clinched the Isthmian Premier League title to return to the second tier of non-league football on this day in 2010. Travelling across to Surrey to take on second place Kingstonian, the Darts were in jubilant mood after a memorable 6-2 win. A team goal had Dartford in front when Adam Gross, Ryan Hayes, Billy Burgess linked up before his cross was finished by Elliot Bradbrook. Eight minutes later Hayes rifled home an effort from 25 yards before Kingstonian’s Simon Huckle halved the deficit. The Darts went into the break with a 3-1 lead once Danny Harris headed in another. The goals kept coming and Bradbrook scored into an empty net for his second, then once more the K’s pulled one back courtesy of the eventual golden boot winner Bobby Traynor. The soon to be champions added further gloss to a perfect afternoon when Hayes completed his brace and Dartford’s top scorer Lee Burns made it 6-2. The Darts have won their last four games on this day, defeating King’s Lynn 1-0 in 2004 before the title clincher at Kingsmeadow. At Princes Park in 2014, Dartford beat Grimsby Town with Max Cornhill scoring the only goal of the game. Another four years later, Dartford repeated the same score at Gloucester City, this time Alfie Pavey netting the winner.

Eastbourne Borough v Dartford

March 31, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford are on the road this Good Friday when they take on an Eastbourne Borough side aiming for the playoffs.

The Darts remain front runners to finish second with seven games remaining and a two point cushion on third. Bouncing back from defeat at home to Chelmsford City, Alan Dowson’s men put in a fine performance against relegation threatened Dulwich Hamlet last time out. However, Dartford have failed to win their last five away games in the National South. Unbeaten in four, Eastbourne Borough have pulled themselves into the playoff mix sitting in tenth and within a victory of moving above the dotted line.

Alex Wall was the star of the show on Saturday becoming the 15th player to net a Princes Park hat-trick in a Dartford shirt. Each goal reached a milestone and the first settled any early nerves against the leakiest defence in the division. After just seven minutes Wall scored his tenth in all competitions to give the hosts a 1-0 half-time lead over Dulwich Hamlet. Within a three minute second-half spell, the 32-year-old reached double figures in the league then claimed his 100th career goal and first ever league treble. Harvey Bradbury had time to score his second for the club in three appearances to round off a resounding 4-0 win, the striker showing why he was chosen in the starting lineup for the first time since joining the Darts.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet (01/04/2023) – Dartford FC TV

Dowson handed Richard Chin his debut, whilst goalkeeper Ben Dudzinski and Jordan Wynter made their first starts since the loss at Weymouth just over a month ago, the latter had been out through injury. Meanwhile, Jernade Meade was back in the lineup after returning from international duty with Montserrat. The Dartford boss opted for more bite in midfield with Sam Odaudu and Wynter replacing the creative Samir Carruthers and Jack Smith. With the game secure there was even time to see the first glimpse of new signing Bobby Dunn.

Dartford could complete a double over Eastbourne Borough this season after winning the reverse fixture 2-1 at Princes Park. The Darts came from behind to triumph under the floodlights after conceding a goal scored by Leone Gravata. The hosts were soon level when Charlie Sheringham assisted Samir Carruthers for the equaliser. Carruthers was involved again for the winner, providing the ball to the now departed Kristian Campbell who set up Luke Allen.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Eastbourne Borough (27/09/2022) – Dartford FC TV

At Priory Lane in recent campaigns both sides have recorded big victories. On the final day of last season, the Darts warmed up for the playoffs with an outstanding 7-2 win. Dan Roberts, who is currently out on loan with Hungerford Town opened the scoring after just four minutes only for Charley Kendall to level. With half an hour played, Marcus Dinanga got on the end of a long ball to give the Darts a lead and Kory Roberts extended the advantage six minutes later. In the second-half Dartford netted three goals in a five-minute spell, Dinanga scored his second and Kalvin Kalala grabbed a quickfire brace. A seventh was added by Jordan Greenidge before Chris Whelpdale managed a consolation goal for the Sports. The convincing win for the Darts put the 6-0 humbling at the same venue three years earlier well behind them. In between those huge results the spoils have been almost shared with Dartford winning three and Eastbourne Borough claiming two victories.

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Match Highlights – Eastbourne Borough v Dartford (07/05/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Yet to make an appearance, Dartford’s deadline day signing Emmanuel Adebowale had a loan spell at Priory Lane back in 2018 and joined permanently the following season. In total the defender made 38 appearances for Eastbourne Borough before moving to Crawley Town and spending more time out on loan at Havant and Waterlooville. The Sports have two former Darts in their squad, forward Norman Wabo played 19 times in the 2019/2020 campaign scoring four goals. Kai Innocent made eight appearances last season for Dartford and has recently been out injured since coming off in the St Albans City game almost four weeks ago. The full back returned on the weekend in the 1-0 win at Weymouth, the winning goal coming from Ryan Bartley.

Under Danny Bloor, Eastbourne Borough have gone from surviving in the National South to challenging for promotion. When he took over in November 2019 his aim was to keep the Sports in the division, which he achieved. The following campaign saw the Sussex club finish 18^th for a third consecutive season. Last term, Eastbourne Borough made the playoffs losing at the same stage as the Darts in the elimination round. Now the Sports are one of a number of teams chasing the top seven. A fantastic November and December saw Bloor’s side lose just once in ten outings picking up 23 points to lift the club into sixth by Boxing Day.

Since the New Year inconsistent results have seen Eastbourne Borough slip out of the playoff places. However, the Sports are showing signs of recovery and a late push for the top seven cannot be ruled out after closing the gap on Saturday.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 15 / Eastbourne Borough wins: 8 / Draws: 4

Current League Form

Dartford (DLDWLW)			Eastbourne Borough (DLWWDW)
Dulwich Hamlet	H	4-0	Weymouth	A	1-0
Chelmsford City	H	1-2	Chippenham Town	A	1-1
Farnborough	H	3-1	Slough Town	H	2-0
Hungerford Town	A	1-1	St Albans City	A	3-2
Weymouth	A	1-3	Tonbridge Angels	H	1-2
Oxford City	H	0-0	Chelmsford City	H	2-2

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 2 –1 Eastbourne Borough (27/09/2022 – National South)
Eastbourne Borough 2 – 7 Dartford (07/05/2022 – National South)
Dartford 3 –1 Eastbourne Borough (30/08/2021 – National South)
Dartford 0 – 1 Eastbourne Borough (09/02/2021 – National South)
Eastbourne Borough 3 – 1 Dartford (05/12/2020 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Eastbourne Borough (22/02/2020 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford are five without an away win in the league for the first time since 2019 (D3, L2)
A league double has been claimed by either side in the past three seasons. Dartford beat the Sports twice in 2019/2020 and 2021/2022 and Eastbourne Borough defeated the Darts in both games during the 2020/2021 campaign
Out of eleven seasons in which the two sides have been in the same division there has been nine doubles (Dartford 6 v Eastbourne Borough 3)

On This Day

Alan Dowson’s Kingstonian side hosted the Darts on this day in 2007. The Isthmian Division One South fixture ended in a 1-1 draw with Eddie McClements scoring for Dartford. Five years later no goals were scored in the draw at home to Chelmsford City. Most recently in 2018, Dartford stayed hot on the heels of Havant and Waterlooville in a closely contested title race. The Darts hosted Weston-super-Mare and won 3-1 with goals from Alex Brown, captain Elliot Bradbrook and leading scorer Alfie Pavey. The win moved the Darts within three points of the top with a game in hand. Dartford lost out on the National South title on goal difference four weeks later.

Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet

March 30, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Head to Head

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

Current League Form

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

Last Six Meetings

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

Statistics

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

On This Day

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

Dartford v Chelmsford City

March 24, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford will test themselves against fellow playoff hopefuls Chelmsford City on Non-League Day when the pair meet at Princes Park in the National South this weekend.

The Darts had their fixture against bottom club Concord Rangers postponed last weekend which allowed teams behind them to apply some pressure. One of those clubs is Chelmsford City who took full advantage to move within five points of Alan Dowson’s side. Dartford will go into this weekend’s clash rested from their confidence boosting win last time out at Princes Park a fortnight ago. The Clarets on the other hand are eyeing up a double having won the reverse fixture back in December.

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Match Highlights – Chelmsford City v Dartford (03/12/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Dartford had scored in each of their first 21 league games before visiting the Melbourne Stadium just over three months ago. The Clarets were the first team in the National South this season to keep a clean sheet against the Darts attack and came away with a 1-0 victory. A late goal by Louis Dunne separated the two sides when his cross bypassed everyone to end up in Archie Mair’s net. With a minute to play plus stoppage time the Darts were unable to respond.

Unbeaten in their last four home matches in the league, Dartford will be hoping to keep that run going and record a fifth straight home victory over Chelmsford City. Just over a year ago, Jack Jebb’s set pieces made a difference putting the Darts two up. First, the midfielder scored directly from a free-kick with 16 minutes on the clock. Then approaching the half hour mark Jebb’s delivery was met by Danny Leonard. Chelmsford City did breach the hosts defence with a Tom Blackwell consolation, the Clarets’ first goal at Princes Park after three previous blanks.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Chelmsford City (15/03/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Over the years Chelmsford City has been seen as one of Dartford’s bogey teams, at one stage the Darts recorded just one win in 15 attempts between 2001 and 2018. Now the tide has turned, at least at home, and having won 11 and drawn two of their last 14 league fixtures this term on their own patch, Dowson’s side can be hopeful of a positive result. Farnborough were the latest victims at Princes Park a fortnight ago with winger, Luke Coulson running the show and Harvey Bradbury scoring on debut.

The Darts made a bright start and on six minutes Statham poked the ball over the line from a Carruthers corner, the defender’s first goal since the derby day win at Ebbsfleet United. Corners caused problems for the visitors with Murtagh hitting the bar on twenty minutes and later Statham had what would have been his second ruled out for a foul. Coulson came out in the second half confidently and doubled the lead within five minutes of the restart by rounding Jack Turner and slotting into an empty net. With the Darts two up Dowson introduced Bradbury for his debut and it wasn’t long before the striker got off the mark. Harry Parsons who squandered several chances in first half scored a consolation for the visitors to deny Dartford another home clean sheet.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Farnborough (11/03/2023) – Dartford FC TV

Sam Odaudu returned after a long-term injury that had kept the defender out since Boxing Day. However, Jordan Wynter has been out injured after missing the draw at Hungerford Town as well. Tommy Block is yet to feature since joining the club due to injury and Charlie Sheringham is also recovering. Defender, Isaac Ogundere has been recalled by League Two side AFC Wimbledon after making five appearances for the Darts. Jernade Meade has been called up to the Montserrat international squad.

Dowson has strengthened the squad for the final stretch the campaign signing three players ahead of this weekend’s fixture. Former Sheffield Wednesday under 21, Bobby Dunn will bolster the midfield and came through Charlton Athletic’s academy. The youngster has also gained experience with Ramsgate and Sevenoaks Town in the Isthmian League. Emmanuel Adebowale and Richard Chin will provide extra options in defence for the Darts. Adebowale signs from League Two side Crawley Town and has already played in the National South on loan at Havant and Waterlooville and with Eastbourne Borough. Chin also came through Charlton Athletic’s ranks and has made five appearances for the Addicks before arriving at Princes Park on loan.

At the beginning of the month Chelmsford City were clinging onto the last playoff place, but three wins in their last four has moved them up to fourth and six points clear of eighth. The Clarets won their last game on the road, an Essex derby against Concord Rangers in which they came from behind to win 2-1. The Beachboys took an early lead through Mo Bettamer’s header, but two former Darts helped Chelmsford City earn all three points. Ody Alfa set up Michael Folivi for a first-half equaliser and Giovanni McGregor scored a rebound from Folivi’s saved penalty. Both players had short spells with the Darts with Alfa scoring once in 15 appearances last season and McGregor making just two appearances in the 2019/2020 campaign. A third former Dart was involved in defence, Jazzi Barnum-Bobb signed for the Clarets from Dulwich Hamlet after playing 19 times in a Dartford shirt during the 2020/2021 season.

New signing James Blanchfield could have lined up against Dartford last weekend for Concord Rangers, but on the eve of the postponed match switched allegiances and joined rivals Chelmsford City. The midfielder was on the bench in the Clarets 4-2 victory over Worthing in the vital playoff six pointer. Meanwhile Robbie Simpson’s side were without Dave Winfield through suspension, he will finish his ban by missing out on Saturday as well. Once more Chelmsford City had to come from behind, but this time they did it twice. Ollie Pearce gave the Rebels the lead in the 11^th minute and again in first-half stoppage time. However, the Clarets pegged the visitors back on both occasions when Liam Trotter and then Folivi netted for the hosts. With seven to play Chelmsford City went in front for the first time as Arjanit Krasniqi scored a penalty. In the final minute Freddie Hockey sealed the deal to clinch all three points.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 41 / Chelmsford City wins: 56 / Draws: 23

Current League Form

Dartford (DWDLDW)			Chelmsford City (LDWLWW)
Farnborough	H	3-1	Worthing	H	4-2
Hungerford Town	A	1-1	Concord Rangers	A	2-1
Weymouth	A	1-3	Hampton & Richmond	A	1-2
Oxford City	H	0-0	Dulwich Hamlet	H	5-1
Slough Town	H	1-0	Eastbourne Borough	A	2-2
Braintree Town	A	1-1	Ebbsfleet United	H	0-1

Last Six Meetings

Chelmsford City 1 – 0 Dartford (03/12/2022 – National South)
Dartford 2 – 1 Chelmsford City (15/03/2022 – National South)
Chelmsford City 0 – 0 Dartford (25/10/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Chelmsford City (06/10/2020 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 0 Chelmsford City (14/03/2020 – National South)
Chelmsford City 4 – 0 Dartford (12/08/2019 – National South)

Statistics

Dartford are looking for a record fifth home win against Chelmsford City in a row having drawn two and lost seven of the previous nine home meetings
The Darts have kept three clean sheets in their last four home matches versus the Clarets
Dartford have kept five cleans sheets in their last seven league games at Princes Park

On This Day

Dartford are unbeaten in seven home games on this day winning their last outing at Princes Park against Bishop’s Stortford in 2016. Danny Harris, Keaton Wood and Tom Bradbrook all scored on Good Friday to wrap up a deserved victory. Dartford have won six, drawn four and lost one on their own patch on this day. Only Tunbridge Wells Rangers have visited the Darts and come away with a win and that was way back in 1939. The last time Dartford played on 25 March it ended in defeat at Clarence Park where St Albans City won 1-0 in 2017.

Dartford v Farnborough

March 10, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford are in action this weekend when they welcome Farnborough to Princes Park in the National South.

Title ambitions are realistically out of reach for the Darts, so securing second place has become the main aim in the closing stages of the campaign. An away point on Tuesday night at Hungerford Town and draws between two of the chasing pack, Oxford City and Braintree Town, leave Alan Dowson’s side five points clear of third. Farnborough are close to the top seven with games in hand and are hoping to work their way into the end of season playoffs.

Princes Park last hosted this fixture almost eleven years to the day and on that occasion the Darts strolled to a 3-0 win. Jacob Erskine used his strength to shrug off a Boro defender in the first half and slot the ball beyond the visiting keeper for the opener. The striker completed his brace in the second-half when he latched onto Richard Graham’s through ball, rounded the goalkeeper and tucked the ball into an empty net. Substitute Tony Garrod was introduced late on, and his first involvement saw him add number three.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Farnborough (10/03/2012) – sonytino

It was Farnborough who ended Dartford’s most successful spell this season when they won 3-1 in the reverse fixture back in November. The Darts had won ten of their previous eleven league outings before the trip to Cherrywood Road dropping just two points in that period. Boro exposed Dartford’s defence and after nineteen minutes were ahead when Hisham Kasimu got the better of Jordan Wynter then finished a one on one with Joe Young in goal. The lead was doubled when the Darts failed to clear the ball and Johnathon Page netted from close range. Kristian Campbell scored his only goal in the black and white shirt with a header to give the visitors a lifeline. The full back left Princes Park to join a clan of former Dartford players at Dulwich Hamlet this week after making 32 appearances for the Darts. However, Farnborough made sure of maximum points when Ollie Pendleberry scored a brilliant free-kick.

Since the loss in Hampshire, barring a four-match winning run over the festive period, the Darts have been inconsistent. Current form has contributed to losing ground on league leaders Ebbsfleet United who are now well clear at the top. Dartford remain in second place as others have been unable to take advantage, however the chasing pack seems to have increased with the insurgence of Braintree Town.

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Match Highlights – Farnborough v Dartford (12/11/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Dowson was looking for a reaction on Tuesday night to last weekend’s defeat at lowly Weymouth. For the trip to Hungerford Town, the Dartford boss made four changes to the starting eleven and handed Connor Essam his 100^th start for the club. Samir Carruthers returned from suspension, Maxwell Statham recovered from a calf strain, Luke Allen was back in the side and Dan Wilks made his first league start in goal since Ben Dudzinski signed last month. Jernade Meade and Luke Coulson were named as substitutes whilst Jordan Wynter wasn’t included in the matchday squad through injury. Tommy Block, Sam Odaudu and Charlie Sheringham have also been on the injury list, but Dowson says they are not too far away from being fit again.

Harvey Bradbury will provide an extra option up front having been signed from Southern League Premier South side Dorchester Town on loan until the end of the season. The striker worked with Dowson during his time at Woking and enjoyed a decent spell in the National South at Oxford City, where he scored 15 goals in 38 appearances. The 24 year old has also spent time in this division with Welling United and on loan at Havant and Waterlooville, St Albans City and Hungerford Town

The Darts created very little in the first forty-five minutes but looked to be going in at the break goalless, until the hosts won a corner. Dylan Adjei-Hersey took full advantage and put the Crusaders in front with virtually the last kick of the half. Another set piece had Dartford level in the second-half when Carruthers whipped in a corner for Alex Wall to guide home. The Darts rode their luck and it looked like they fell behind when Joe Boachie had the ball in the net, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Wilks was later called into action tipping Ryan Jones’ shot onto the crossbar and George Smith missed an open goal. A point on the road means the Darts are now five without an away win in the National South.

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Match Highlights – Hungerford Town v Dartford (07/03/2023) – Dartford FC TV

Farnborough were in fantastic form approaching the last time the two sides met in November. Spencer Day’s team went six unbeaten after beating the Darts then went on to go a further seven without loss. Hemel Hempstead Town ended that run at the end of January, but Boro bounced back with three straight victories resulting in one loss in 17 matches in the National South. Those results have put the Hampshire club on the fringes of the playoff places and with three games in hand they can potentially make up the six points they are behind seventh place Chelmsford City. Closing out February, Farnborough lost two of their last four in that month but picked up an excellent 2-2 draw with Ebbsfleet United. Spencer Day’s side began March by ending Oxford City’s ten match unbeaten run with a 2-1 victory.

Farnborough named just three substitutes in their Tuesday night 0-0 draw against Welling United and made as many changes to their team. CJ Fearn, Ricky Holmes and Ronan Silva came in for Ollie Robinson, Reggie Young and Conor Lawless. Farnborough waited until nearly ten minutes from time for the best chance of the game after Jordan Norville-Williams won a penalty. Farnborough have made a habit of missing their spot kicks and added another to the list as the defender stepped up and saw his shot saved. In the first-half Kevin Lokko came closest when he hit the woodwork with an acrobatic effort.

Day explained after the game that it had been difficult week losing four key players and being left with only thirteen fully fit players in the squad. Mason Bloomfield, John Oyenuga and Reggie Young will be unavailable this weekend. Ollie Robinson missed the draw at Welling United through illness and is hopeful of a return.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Farnborough wins: 5 / Draws: 2

Current League Form

Dartford (WDWDLD)			Farnborough (LWLDWD)
Hungerford Town	A	1-1	Welling United	H	0-0
Weymouth	A	1-3	Oxford City	A	2-1
Oxford City	H	0-0	Ebbsfleet United	H	2-2
Slough Town	H	1-0	Braintree Town	H	0-1
Braintree Town	A	1-1	Weymouth	H	3-1
Chippenham Town	H	2-0	Eastbourne Borough	A	0-2

Last Six Meetings

Farnborough 3 – 1 Dartford (12/11/2022 – National South)
Dartford 3 – 0 Farnborough (10/03/2012 – National South)
Farnborough 1 – 2 Dartford (17/09/2011 – National South)
Dartford 4 – 1 Farnborough (22/01/2011 – National South)
Farnborough 2 – 1 Dartford (21/08/2010 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 2 Farnborough Town (23/11/1998 – F.A Trophy)

Statistics

Dartford have picked up 32 points out of the last 39 available at home in the National South (W10, D2, L1)
The Darts have kept three consecutibe home clean sheets in the league and five in their last six
Dartford have won both matches against Farnborough at Princes Park having lost both previous home meetings before the stadium opened

On This Day

Ryan Hayes scored his 100th Dartford goal on this day five years ago netting in a 1-1 draw with Concord Rangers. Steve Robinson scored the winer in 1989 when the Darts beat Altrincham 1-0 in the F.A Trophy quarter final. Dartford went on to lose in a two legged semi-final against eventual runners up Macclesfield Town. Dartford’s last home game on this day ended in defeat when they were beaten 2-1 by Potters Bar Town in the Southern League Eastern Division back in 2006.

Hungerford Town v Dartford

March 7, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford are guaranteed to end the evening in second place on Tuesday night when they travel to second from bottom Hungerford Town.

For a consecutive game the Darts face a team in the relegation zone scraping for survival. Dartford dropped points on the weekend at Weymouth when they were beaten, keeping the Terras above Hungerford Town near the foot of the table. Alan Dowson’s side still have a six point cushion on third spot, but will want to maintain their gap on the chasing pack. The Crusaders played their sixth home match in eight league outings on Saturday drawing a blank in a goalless draw with Welling United.

Earlier this season the Darts beat Hungerford Town 2-0 at Princes Park. Marvin Herschel scored his second in three league starts for the club, charging down a clearance from the goalkeeper and passing the ball into an empty net. Alex Wall netted his first since re-joining the Darts to seal victory with his well struck shot. Dartford’s last trip to Bulpit Lane ended in defeat and two red cards. Sol Wanjau-Smith opened the scoring for the Crusaders and Max Ram fired home an effort from a corner. Junior Tiensia was sent off and so was manager Steve King, who picked up two yellows in the same minute. Jake Robinson scored a consolation goal, but it was too late to stage a dramatic comeback.

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

On Saturday, Dartford’s abysmal run down in Weymouth continued with a 3-1 loss to the relegation battlers. Fortunately results elsewhere went Dartford’s way and although they lost more ground at the top they remain second. Dowson made one change to the side that drew 0-0 with Oxford City last week. In came Pierre Fonkeu taking the place of Maxwell Statham in the starting eleven. Dartford needed the points to help consolidate their position in the table, but the hosts were determined to add to their tally in their bid to stay in the National South. Weymouth went in front when Akheem Rose was fouled in the box, he stepped up to take the penalty and scored. just before half-time, Dowson was justified in selecting Fonkeu when the striker scored his tenth in all competitions. The second forty five belonged to the Terras and goals from their top scorer Bradley Ash and a free kick by Tom Blair ended the Darts five match unbeaten run in the National South.

Dowson was annoyed by the performance of the team and called for his senior players to step up, he explained to Dartford FC TV: “I’ve got some players, senior ones, who have got to give a lot more for the club”. With the injury to striker Charlie Sheringham, the Dartford boss is looking to bring in a replacement to provide a more attacking threat. One player who will return is creative midfielder Samir Carruthers, who has been suspended for the last two league matches. Luke Allen could come in to the line up, whilst Statham missed the action on the weekend with a calf strain and is likely to be included. Defender, Sam Odaudu is “not too far away” from coming back after injury, which has kept him out since Boxing Day and Tommy Block is yet to make his debut since joining the club.

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Match Highlights – Hungerford Town v Dartford (22/02/2022) – Dartford FC TV

In a relegation battle, Hungerford Town picked up a useful point when they also faced a Kent side on the weekend. Taking on Welling United, both sides were unable to breach each other’s defence in a 0-0 draw. Manager, Danny Robinson said after the game in an interview on Twitter (@HungerfordTown): “By and large, especially in the second-half we were the better side. First half we defended doggedly, but Welling didn’t really hurt us”, he added: “At the end of the day it’s a point and a clean sheet. Will it be a good point come the end of the season? Only time will tell”. The Crusaders boss looks up to Dowson and is relishing the opportunity to take on the Darts, he commented: “They are going to be hurting after their result. Dowse to me is one of my heroes in non league football. They’re going to be here and they’re a top side who want to get promoted. It is going to be a good one under the lights on Tuesday night at Bulpit Lane”.

The Crusaders have spent all season battling at the bottom and only picked up two wins in their opening 18 games, accruing just nine points and scoring 11 goals up to mid-November. However, Danny Robinson has seen a vast improvement since the turn of the year tasting defeat on just three occasions in the league to move them within four points of safety. One player that has helped the Berkshire club since joining on loan from Dartford in November is Dan Roberts. Since his acquisition Hungerford Town netted 18 in 13 outings before the forward missed the defeat at Worthing and the draw with Welling United on Saturday. Robinson also bolstered his front line with David Bremang who scored in his first four matches. However the pair were injured towards the end of last month.

Therefore, Joe Boachie has been added to the squad from Braintree Town along with Great Nii-Okie Evans from Kingstonian and Fabio Lopes from Brackley Town. Although Hungerford Town have picked up one point in their last two National South outings, they beat Cheshunt in a relegation six pointer, defeated Hemel Hempstead Town and recorded a fine 3-0 triumph over St Albans City, who are challenging for a playoff place in the fixtures leading up to those winless games.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 5 / Hungerford Town wins: 4 / Draws: 3

Current League Form

Dartford (DWDWDL)			Hungerford Town (LWWWLD)
Weymouth	A	1-3	Welling United	H	0-0
Oxford City	H	0-0	Worthing	A	1-2
Slough Town	H	1-0	Cheshunt	A	1-0
Braintree Town	A	1-1	Hemel Hempstead Town	H	3-0
Chippenham Town	H	2-0	St Albans City	H	3-0
Welling United	H	2-2	Oxford City	H	1-3

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 2 – 0 Hungerford Town (01/10/2022 – National South)
Hungerford Town 2 – 1 Dartford (22/02/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Hungerford Town (09/10/2021 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 1 Hungerford Town (16/01/2021 – National South)
Hungerford Town 1 – 2 Dartford (28/11/2020 – National South)
Hungerford Town 2 – 2 Dartford (26/08/2019 – National South))

Statistics

Dartford have scored in each of their last seven games against Hungerford Town having failed to find the net in the previous four (W4, D2, L1)
The Darts have won just one in six at Bulpit Lane (D1, L4)
Connor Essam will make his 100th start for the Darts if selected, the defender will have clocked up 104 appearances in total

On This Day

Darren McQueen’s spot kick proved decisive on this day three years ago in a 2-1 victory at St Albans City. Liam Nash also found the back of the net for Dartford, one of five goals in 11 appearances during his short stay at Princes Park. That was Dartford’s first win on 7 March since 1989 when they beat Atherstone United 3-0 in the Southern League Cup semi-final first leg. Two weeks later the Darts won 3-1 in the second leg to reach the final, where they beat Burton Albion over two more legs to lift the cup. Between those two victories Dartford drew four and lost two. One of those draws was a Kent derby against Margate which ended 2-2 in 2009, Tommy Osborne and Adam Gross the scorers.

Weymouth v Dartford

March 3, 2023 / Stuart Maidment / 0 Comments

Dartford will be hoping to end a long unwanted run this weekend when they visit relegation threatened Weymouth in the National South.

It’s been 33 years since the Darts won at the Bob Lucas Stadium, the scene of Dartford’s playoff heartbreak, and throughout the decades the Terras have dominated in this fixture on home soil. This time Alan Dowson’s side head into this fixture on the back off a five-game unbeaten league run and occupy second place. Weymouth have picked up just four points in their last five outings, but trounced Concord Rangers last weekend in a six pointer at the bottom of the table.

Since the penalty shootout playoff final defeat in August 2020, Dartford have recorded consecutive victories over the Dorset club without conceding a goal, however those were at Princes Park. A rare triumph on the Jurassic Coast on Saturday will be only the third time the Darts have completed a league double over the Terras. In October, loanee Joshua Johnson scored a delightful long-range effort on his home debut to give Dartford a first-half lead. Alex Wall started the afternoon as a substitute and finished with a brace in a 3-0 win, scoring his first from the penalty spot and lashing home another later on. Last term the Darts also won at home as the two sides met in the F.A Trophy, Jack Jebb scored the only goal of the game to send his side into the next round.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Weymouth (29/10/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Although Dartford drew 0-0 after normal time on their last visit to the Bob Lucas Stadium, they missed all three penalties to hand Weymouth a place in the National League and successive promotions. The Terras survived their first campaign back at the top table of non-league but suffered the dreaded second season syndrome by finishing second from bottom, making a swift return to the National South.

In Weymouth’s playoff winning year they beat the Darts at the Bob Lucas Stadium under Mark Molesley with a first-half strike from Abdulai Baggie setting them on their way. Yemi Odubade and the experienced Brett Williams added two more before Norman Wabo scored a last-minute consolation. That result under Adam Flanagan and Jamie Coyle left the Darts down in 21st place.

Both sides have made a few managerial changes since the 2019/2020 season. Whilst the Darts went through a spell with Steve King before Dowson taking charge, Weymouth have seen Molesley leave for a shot at a higher level, Brian Stock and David Oldfield at the helm and now they have former Hungerford Town boss Bobby Wilkinson leading the way.

For the Darts, Dowson is having a solid debut season in the dugout guiding his team to second and momentarily getting involved in a title race at the turn of the year. However, Dartford are now 14 points behind leaders Ebbsfleet United with a game in hand yet have a considerable cushion on the teams chasing a top seven place. Securing a runner up spot has become a priority to secure home advantage in the playoffs and the current unbeaten run is helping Dartford’s push. Draws against Welling United, Braintree Town and last weekend Oxford City have alternated with victories over Chippenham Town and Slough Town.

On Tuesday night the Darts were knocked out of the London Senior Cup by Haringey Borough as Dowson gave fringe and academy players an opportunity to impress. The Darts went ahead when Marvin Herschel netted his third of the season, but the Borough hit back with two goals to progress into the semi-final for a second year in a row. Samir Carruthers featured in the county cup defeat; however, the midfielder will serve the last game of his suspension this weekend after he picked up ten yellow cards this term. Tommy Block and Sam Odaudu have been out injured, Block is yet to make his Dartford debut and Odaudu has not featured since Boxing Day.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Haringey Borough (28/02/2023) – Dartford FC TV

When Wilkinson took over at Weymouth, they were bottom having picked up just two points in their opening eight fixtures. The Terras are now 26 points better off and although still in the bottom four they are only three points adrift from safety. In their last outing they picked up a vital three points against Concord Rangers winning 5-0 and sending the Beachboys to the bottom of the charts. The Terras went four up by the interval and the goals started flowing when Bradley Ash headed the opener. Harry Kyprianou was alert to score a rebound before Tom Blair and Akeem Rose added two more. Ash scored the only goal in the second half, his 16^th of the season. Victory in Essex ended a four-match winless run in which Weymouth picked up a single point at home to St Albans City.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 19 / Weymouth wins: 35 / Draws: 16

Current League Form

Dartford (LDWDWD)			Weymouth (WLLDLW)
Oxford City	H	0-0	Concord Rangers	A	5-0
Slough Town	H	1-0	Farnborough	A	1-3
Braintree Town	A	1-1	St Albans City	H	0-0
Chippenham Town	H	2-0	Hemel Hempstead Town	A	1-2
Welling United	H	2-2	Concord Rangers	H	1-2
Worthing	A	0-3	Dulwich Hamlet	H	2-1

Last Six Meetings

Dartford 3 – 0 Weymouth (29/10/2022 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 0 Weymouth (15/01/2022 – F.A Trophy)
Weymouth 0 – 0 Dartford (01/08/2020 – National South Playoff Final)*
Weymouth 3 – 1 Dartford (17/08/2019 – National South)
Weymouth 2 – 0 Dartford (27/12/1997 – Southern League South)
Dartford 3 – 2 Weymouth (23/08/1997 – Southern League South)
*Weymouth won 3-0 on penalties

Statistics

Dartford have gone 11 away games in the National South without a clean sheet
However, the Darts have kept three consecutive clean sheets versus the Terras having never previously kept successive clean sheets against them
Dartford have won just six away matches at Weymouth (D7, L23)

On This Day

Elliot Bradbrook scored from the penalty spot and Duane Ofori-Acheampong netted a second as the Darts beat Bath City 2-0 at Princes Park six years ago. Victory ended a run of three straight home losses without a goal on the 4 March having been beaten 3-0 by Dover Athletic three years earlier, 1-0 against Enfield Town in 2006 and 1-0 versus Eastbourne Borough in 2003. Dartford have drawn their last two away games 1-1 on this day. Firstly at Chelmsford City in 1991 and four years later with Tunbridge Wells in the Kent League Cup semi-final first leg. The Darts won the return leg to reach the final where they lost 3-0 to Ramsgate a month later. Dartford have played Weymouth twice before on 4 March both in the fifties winning 4-2 in 1950 and drawing 2-2 in 1959.

Tag: National South (Page 6 of 14)

Concord Rangers v Dartford

Tonbridge Angels v Dartford

Dartford v Taunton Town

Dartford v Dover Athletic

Eastbourne Borough v Dartford

Dartford v Dulwich Hamlet

Dartford v Chelmsford City

Dartford v Farnborough

Hungerford Town v Dartford

Weymouth v Dartford

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