Tag: Worthing

Worthing v Dartford

Dartford will need to cause an upset to progress in the F.A Cup when they visit Worthing this weekend.

If the Darts achieve the feat of knocking out higher league opposition, they will make it through to the fourth qualifying round for the first time in three years. The Rebels ended a 24 year wait to reach the first round last season and will be favourites going into Saturday’s tie.

These two clubs have history in the competition having played five times previously. Drawn against each other on four occasions, Dartford lead the head-to-head record winning in the last F.A Cup game between the pair back in 2009. Hopefully preparations will be smoother this time for the Dartford players who were held up when travelling to Woodside Road 15 years ago. Luckily the delays didn’t affect the result and goals from Elliot Bradbrook and Jay May led to a 2-1 win, Jamie Brotherton scored a consolation for Worthing.

Worthing’s only F.A Cup triumph over the Darts rewarded the Sussex club with a second round tie with Oxford United. Dartford were beaten 2-1 on the road in 1982 despite Paul Lazarus giving the visitors a half time lead. The Rebels came from behind to set a club record run in the competition, a record that remains today. The two other ties came back in the twenties with Dartford winning at home 3-0 in a fourth qualifying round match in 1927. Six years earlier the pair drew 0-0 in Sussex before the Darts won the first qualifying round replay 1-0.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In recent history Dartford have faced Worthing in the National South over the previous two campaigns. The last visit to Woodside Road finished in an entertaining 4-3 victory to the Darts just over a year ago. Danny Cashman put the hosts ahead, then in the space of 15 minutes at the end of the first half Dartford were 3-1 to the good. Alex Wall, Luke Coulson and Jordan Wynter scored to put the visitors in control. The hosts fought back through Ricky Aguiar and Ollie Pearce. However, with six minutes to go Tyrell Miller-Rodney scored the winner.

Yet it is Worthing that have the upper hand winning the other three league meetings. In August 2022 they came from behind at Princes Park. Connor Essam gave Dartford an early lead, but second-half goals from Callum Kealy and a last-minute Joel Colbran effort handed the Rebels the win. The reverse fixture was more comfortable for Worthing as they led through an own goal, then Pearce and former Dart, Davide Rodari made it 3-0. The last meeting five months ago also finished 2-1 to the Sussex side. Once again, the Rebels turned a goal deficit around after Luke Coulson’s penalty. Bradley Dologhan and Kane Wills struck for Worthing putting the Darts on the brink of relegation.

Dartford’s F.A Cup run is a distraction from the Isthmian Premier after suffering back to back league defeats. In between the 5-1 loss at Dover Athletic, the Darts navigated a second qualifier against Leatherhead. Last weekend they were undone by bottom side Bowers and Pitsea and a former academy player. Alfie Evans scored twice in the first half for the Essex club, whilst Callum Jones scored in his fourth consecutive home match in the 2-1 home loss.

Adrian Pennock was without Oliver Box (groin), but selected an unchanged side to the team that beat Leatherhead. Returning to action after a pre-season injury Duane Ofori-Acheampong made a substitute appearance only to be sent off after the final whistle, the striker will now face a suspension.

Worthing have been renowned for high scoring matches since reaching the National South. In their two full campaigns at that level they have scored 196 goals and conceded 144. This season, on the opening day against Weston-super-Mare that trend continued as they come from three goals down to win 4-3, getting off to a good start to life without the talismanic Pearce. The former Rebel left in the summer to join former manager Adam Hinshelwood at York City. The striker scored over 30 league goals in each of his last three seasons.

Consecutive draws followed before a 5-0 humbling at Truro City, but the Rebels ended August with a 3-2 victory over Hampton and Richmond Borough. This month has seen Worthing pick up five points from three league games drawing in their previous two National South outings against AFC Hornchurch and last weekend versus Weymouth. Prior the pair of draws they beat to Boreham Wood.

Story so far…

First Qualifying Round
Dartford 6 – 2 Marlow
A convincing victory over the Southern South side eased Dartford into the next round. Eddie Dsane put the hosts in front and just before the break Oliver Box doubled the lead. Box added another shortly after the interval. Marlow pulled a goal back from the spot before Ben Allen scored his first goals for the Darts either side of the away side’s second. Wrapping up the win, Callum Jones added a sixth.

Second Qualifying Round
Dartford 2 – 0 Leatherhead
Jones took advantage of a goalkeeping error to get Dartford of the mark in the second qualifying round. Following up a spilt effort, the striker pounced to make to put the Darts one up. Dsane secured a passage into the next round when he calmly finished a wonderful Samir Carruthers assist.

Worthing 3 – 2 Havant and Waterlooville
Muhammadu Faal scored against his former club as Worthing scraped past lower league opposition Havant and Waterlooville. The Hawks, relegated with Dartford last term, opened the scoring through Keane Anderson. The hosts were level in the second half when Jack Spong made it one each. Moments later Ryan Seager scrambled the Hampshire side in front, then the Rebels left it to the final five minutes. Tommy Willard and Faal completed the comeback to put Worthing’s name into the hat

Current Form

Dartford (WWWLWL) Worthing (LWWDWD)
Bowers & Pitsea H 1-2 Weymouth A 1-1
Leatherhead (FAC) H 2-0 Havant & Waterlooville (FAC) H 3-2
Dover Athletic A 1-5 AFC Hornchurch H 0-0
Marlow Town (FAC) H 6-2 Boreham Wood A 2-1
Chatham Town H 3-1 Hampton & Richmond A 3-2
Carshalton Athletic A 1-0 Truro City A 0-5
(FAC – F.A Cup / FAT – F.A Trophy)

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Worthing wins: 4 / Draws: 1

Previous Meetings

Dartford 1 – 2 Worthing (09/04/2024 – National South)
Worthing 3 – 4 Dartford (14/11/2023 – National South)
Worthing 3 – 0 Dartford (28/01/2023 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 2 Worthing (27/08/2022 – National South)
Worthing 1 – 2 Dartford (26/09/2009 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 2 – 1 Dartford (20/11/1982 – F.A Cup)

Statistics

  • Four of the last five fixtures between Dartford and Worthing have been won by the away side.
  • The Darts have won 3, drew 1 and lost 1 in F.A Cup games versus the Rebels
  • Dartford have won nine out of their last 11 away F.A Cup games. Only Oxford City in 2018 and AFC Sudbury in 2021 have beaten the Darts in those matches.

On This Day

An Emmanuel Sonupe double helped Dartford into the London Senior Cup second round on this day three years ago. The Darts beat Athletic Newham 5-2 with the other goals coming from George Porter and Dan Roberts. In Dartford’s last away fixture on 28 September they beat Essex League side Ford United 1-0 in the second qualifying round of the F.A Cup back in 1991. Only two other F.A Cup ties involving the Darts were played on this day. Dartford went out to Staines Town in 1997 and beat rivals Maidstone United in 1912.

Dartford v Worthing

Dartford host their penultimate home game of the season against promotion hopefuls Worthing on Tuesday night.

Adrian Pennock’s side remain in the bottom four, but victory on the weekend has given the Darts hope they can survive the drop. Worthing also claimed maximum points in their last outing defeating table toppers Yeovil Town and all but securing a playoff place.

When the original fixture was due to be played Pennock had just been appointed Dartford boss and Worthing’s manager, Adam Hinshelwood left for York City. Now Aarran Racine will be in the visitor’s dugout and both managers have it all to play for as the season heads down the finishing straight. The Darts need victories to have a chance of holding on to their National South status. The Rebels will be determined to keep momentum going and earn home advantage for the playoffs.

On Saturday, Dartford travelled to Hampshire in a relegation six pointer against Havant and Waterlooville. Pennock made three changes to the side that lost 2-0 at home to Eastbourne Borough on Easter Monday. Injuries to Tommy Block and Brandon Barzey meant Jack Smith and Olly Box were introduced to the starting eleven. Alex Wall was brought in to replace Jordan Greenidge. Tyrell Miller-Rodney was named on the bench and made a late appearance after recovering from tonsillitis. Manny Adebowale, Oliver Bray, Tom Wray and Sam Odaudu were on the injury list.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Joash Nembhard returned to his former side with a goal and Oliver Box became the match winner as the Darts claimed their first league win in 11 attempts. In the first half Dartford were unfortunate not to be ahead with Alex Wall and Box coming close. Havant and Waterlooville tested Rhys Byrne occasionally, but the Darts goalkeeper was equal to the task. Despite being the better side, Dartford went a goal behind in the second half. Harrison Sodje was down injured when the hosts took advantage through an excellent strike from James Roberts. Yet the Darts showed great character and when Nembhard headed over the line, his fourth goal of the season and third against his former side, the visitors were on level terms. Just four minutes later Luke Coulson set up Box to smash the ball into the roof of the net. A couple of good saves from Byrne at the end made sure the score remained 2-1 to the Darts.

Results elsewhere leaves Dartford a point below Eastbourne Borough. In order to remain in the division it looks as though the Darts will have to stop a winless run of nine at home stretching back to November. Pennock will have two opportunities starting with Worthing and ending the campaign against Truro City. In between those two fixtures Dartford travel to champions elect Yeovil Town.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

The reverse fixture against Worthing this season was a topsy-turvy affair. The Darts came from behind, let a lead slip, but ended up winning. 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, captain Coulson netted from the edge of the box and Jordan Wynter then grabbed a rare goal. The Rebels 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, Miller-Rodney put away the winner.

Worthing completed the double over the Darts last season winning 2-1 at Princes Park. In a story akin to this season Dartford let a one goal lead slip after going in front through Connor Essam. The Rebels equalised in the second-half when Callum Kealy scored and in the last minute Joel Cobran netted the decisive goal. Five months later Worthing won 3-0 in a game that saw Wall sent off and Maxwell Statham score an own goal. The prolific Pearce and former Dart, Davide Rodari scored the other two goals.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Three consecutive defeats and a draw threatened to derail Worthing, however a playoff place is pretty much guaranteed, barring a drastic goal difference swing and poor run of form. The Rebels bounced back with three victories on the spin. The latest triumph came on the weekend against Yeovil Town.

Pearce grabbed a brace and is on course to reach the 40 mark for the season and Brad Dolaghan also scored in a 3-1 win. In front of a home crowd, Yeovil Town had the chance to wrap up the National South title, but the Rebels denied the Glovers. Pearce won a penalty in the first half and the league’s top scorer added another to his tally to put the visitors ahead. On the stroke of half-time Joe Felix pounced on a defensive error to set up Dolaghan to make it 2-0. Alex Fisher headed a goal back for the Glovers with six minute to play, but Pearce sealed the deal seven minutes into injury time.

Over the Easter period Racine’s side claimed maximum points scoring seven and conceding one. On Good Friday they breezed past Havant and Waterlooville with a 5-1 triumph and on the Monday defeated Hampton and Richmond 2-0. Pearce grabbed a brace against the Hawks whilst Dolaghan repeated the feat versus the Beavers.

The Sussex side are top scorers in the division with 94 goals and England C international Ollie Pearce has 38 of them. Last term they were the second highest scorers and despite conceding plenty over the last two years their attacking philosophy has paid dividends. Having missed out in the playoffs almost twelve months ago Worthing will be aiming to go one better and reach the National League for the first time in their history.

Current League Standings

Team Played Pts GD
Hemel Hempstead 44 49 -15
Torquay United 43 48 -8
Truro City 40 47 -9
Eastbourne Borough 42 44 -25
DARTFORD 43 43 -17
Taunton Town 40 41 -22
Havant & Waterlooville 43 36 -34
Dover Athletic 43 27 -33

Current League Form

Dartford (LDDLLW) Worthing (LLDWWW)
Havant & Waterlooville A 2-1 Yeovil Town A 3-1
Eastbourne Borough H 0-2 Hampton & Richmond H 2-0
Chelmsford City A 1-4 Havant & Waterlooville A 5-1
Truro City A 0-0 Bath City H 2-2
Hemel Hempstead H 1-1 Chippenham Town A 1-3
Maidstone United H 0-2 Farnborough H 2-3

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 4 / Worthing wins: 3 / Draws: 1

Last Six Meetings

Worthing 3 – 4 Dartford (14/11/2023 – National South)
Worthing 3 – 0 Dartford (28/01/2023 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 2 Worthing (27/08/2022 – National South)
Worthing 1 – 2 Dartford (26/09/2009 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 2 – 1 Dartford (20/11/1982 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 3 – 0 Worthing (12/11/1927 – F.A Cup)

Statistics

  • Dartford are on their longest winless run at home in the league since 2014/2015 when they went 11 games without a home win between November 2014 and April 2015 in the National League.
  • The Darts have recorded just two league wins in 2024 in 18 attempts (D4, L12)
  • The last victory for the Darts at home against Worthing was 97 years ago in a F.A Cup tie (W2, L1)
  • Oliver Box is already Dartford’s second highest scorer this season in all competitions with six goals in 15 appearances

On This Day

Dartford won the Southern League Cup for the first time on this day back in 1977. The Darts drew 1-1 against Yeovil Town in the first leg in Somerset and shocked the then four times winners early in the second leg at Watling Street. Keith Robinson scored a 15th minute penalty to put the Darts in front. Then six minutes later Vic Akers caught out Yeovil’s goalkeeper with a strike from 35 yards. Dartford won 2-0 on the day and 3-1 on aggregate to lift the cup. Dartford’s last outing on this day was two years ago when they drew 1-1 at home against Hemel Hempstead Town, Marcus Dinanga rescued a point in the last minute. Eight years ago, Lee Burns ended up in goal as Dartford won at the Gallagher Stadium to claim a Kent derby victory over Maidstone United. Elliot Bradbrook scored a tenth minute penalty, Keaton Wood scored an own goal and Nathan Ferguson scored the winner.

Worthing v Dartford

Dartford were left without a game on the weekend so next up they will travel to Worthing this Tuesday.

The Darts hope to avenge last season’s double defeat to the Rebels. With just two wins on the road Alan Dowson’s side have yet to build any momentum and sit in mid-table. Dartford’s last victory on their travels was over a month ago at Chippenham Town, they have picked up just a single point in their last three away trips.

Worthing reached the playoff semi-final last term in their first National South campaign. Once again, the Sussex club are in a strong position to challenge for promotion. The Rebels also had their fixture called off on the weekend, but have won their last two.

Last week, the Darts were unable to make it five home victories in a row. Instead, a sense of déjà vu swept over Princes Park against Chelmsford City. Squandering a one goal lead ended with the same result as last season. Not only that, for a second game running against the Clarets a former Dartford player scored. Dowson made no changes to the side that beat Weston-super-Mare 4-2 a week earlier. Alex Wall wasn’t in the matchday squad after his red card against the Seagulls. Limited options up front and no strikers on the bench proved costly.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

In March, the Darts went one up at Princes Park before former players Ody Alfa and Giovanni McGregor earned Chelmsford City victory. This time it was Maxwell Statham who had the hosts ahead. The defender got on the end of Luke Coulson’s free-kick to net his second of the campaign. At the end of the first-half Joash Nembhard conceded a penalty. Up stepped Samir Carruthers to equalise against his old club. Ten minutes into the second-half the Clarets scored again through Charlie Ruff and went on to win 2-1.

All seven league games Dartford have lost this term have been by a single goal deficit. However, defeat was not helped by yet another sending off. For a third game in a row the Darts picked up a red card, their fifth of the season. This time it was Harvey Bradbury’s turn, who was involved in a scuffle and now faces suspension. With Lewis Manor already substituted and no strikers on the bench there was little alternatives in attack. Dartford did manage to rally when down to ten men and created opportunities to level. Yet it was all too frustrating for manager Alan Dowson, who picked up a caution to add to his sending off against Hemel Hempstead Town.

Inconsistent form leaves Dartford down in fifteenth but still just four points off the top seven. Worthing are just outside the playoff places in eighth on goal difference. However, the Rebels do have games in hand having played the fewest in the division.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Former players and sending offs seem to have been a theme of late. So last season’s visit to Woodside Road will sound all too familiar. The Darts had an awful afternoon down at Worthing in January. Conceding three goals, an ex-Dart scoring and Wall’s red card left Dartford with nothing to show. Two early goals from the hosts put the Darts on the back foot and they never recovered. Statham scored an own goal in eighth minute and three minutes later Ollie Pearce doubled the Rebels lead. In the second half, former Dartford loanee, Davide Rodari made it 3-0 before Wall was dismissed for an off the ball incident.

The reverse fixture at Princes Park five months earlier also ended in defeat. Worthing came from behind to win 2-1. Connor Essam headed home the opening goal after ten minutes. Early in the second-half Callum Kealy levelled things up. In the final minute of injury time Joel Colbran scored the winner for the Rebels.

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Worthing had an excellent first season at this level and have continued where they left off. Adam Hinshelwood’s side won six of their opening eight league games. In their next fixture they finished the day in second. However that draw at Hemel Hempstead Town was also the start of a five match winless streak. In that time, the Sussex side suffered heavy away defeats to a strong Maidstone United and an in form Hampton and Richmond Borough. Whilst at home they were beaten by league leaders Yeovil Town. On their own patch, the loss to the Glovers was the first in two months for the Rebels.

Despite the dip in form the distraction of cup ties kept morale flowing. In September they won a pair of Sussex derbies in the F.A Cup. Eastbourne Borough were knocked out by a solitary goal then Whitehawk were beaten. The Rebels went on to win against Bath City and reach the first round for the first time since 1999. Worthing’s journey ended at Alfreton Town just over a week ago. In county competition the Rebels started their defence of the Sussex Senior Cup with a 6-2 win over Crawley Town.

In their last home game the Rebels recorded a consecutive league victory with a 3-0 triumph over Havant and Waterlooville. Kane Wills set Worthing on their way eight minutes before the break. In the second-half Ollie Pearce doubled the lead and in the final minute Danny Cashman wrapped things up. The Rebels also beat Bath City on the road 2-0 the week before the F.A Cup exit.

Current League Form

Dartford (LWDLWL) Worthing  (LDLLWW)
Chelmsford City H 1-2 Havant & Waterlooville H 3-0
Weston-super-Mare H 4-2 Bath City A 2-0
Hemel Hempstead A 1-2 Hampton & Richmond A 1-4
Eastbourne Borough A 1-1 Yeovil Town H 1-2
Havant & Waterlooville H 2-0 Worthing H 2-2
Hampton & Richmond A 3-4 Maidstone United A 0-4

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Worthing wins: 3 / Draws: 1

Last Six Meetings

Worthing 3 – 0 Dartford (28/01/2023 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 2 Worthing (27/08/2022 – National South)
Worthing 1 – 2 Dartford (26/09/2009 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 2 – 1 Dartford (20/11/1982 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 3 – 0 Worthing (12/11/1927 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 1 – 0 Worthing (12/10/1921 – F.A Cup)

Statistics

  • In the seven meetings between the sides only two have been in the league and Worthing won them both last season
  • Dartford’s only win in four away games against Worthing came in the F.A Cup. Elliott Bradbrook and Jay May scored in a second qualifying round tie back in 2009
  • Maxwell Statham could make his 50th start for the Darts (49 starts, 4 substitute appearances, 7 goals)

On This Day

Tony Sitford’s overhead kick two minutes from time earned a F.A Cup replay against Aldershot on this day in 1964. The Football League side had led since the 40th minute until the Darts levelled in front of 5700 fans. The replay saw the end of Dartford’s run when they were beaten 1-0, the attendance surpassed 9000.

Dartford claimed bragging rights in their Kent derby with Maidstone United three years ago. The Darts left it late to take victory when Tom Bonner and Charlie Sheringham scored at the Gallagher Stadium. The same Kent derby took place five years earlier, but this time at Princes Park. The National South fixture ended all square with another late Dartford goal. Alex Flisher put the Stones ahead before Elliot Bradbrook equalised.

The Darts lost their first match at Princes Park on this day in 2006. After a homecoming win three days earlier, Dartford lost 3-0 to Boreham Wood in the Isthmian League Cup.

Season Preview 2023/2024

Worthing

If it’s goals you are looking for, then look no further than Worthing. In Ollie Pearce they have a goalscorer and last season the Rebels had the second-best attack in the division, totalling ninety-two league goals. However, at the back they also conceded an astounding seventy-two, the same as bottom club Hungerford Town. The Rebels racked up some big wins, 5-1 at Havant and Waterlooville, 6-0 versus Dulwich Hamlet and 7-0 against Concord Rangers. Were involved in some high scoring matches, a 4-3 win at Hampton and Richmond and a 5-4 loss to St Albans City. They also lost 13-2 on aggregate to champions Ebbsfleet United. For a first ever National South campaign Worthing had a superb time reaching the playoffs where they lost in the semi-final to Oxford City.

2022/2023 Season
National South: 4th
F.A Cup: 3rd Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 3rd Round
County Cup: Winners
Top League Scorer: Ollie Pearce (24 goals)

Manager – Adam Hinshelwood

In his second spell as manager, Hinshelwood claimed the Isthmian Premier League title to earn promotion to the National South, then guided the Rebels to the playoffs. Son of former Dartford defender Paul Hinshelwood, Adam racked up 100 appearances for Brighton and Hove Albion as a player. He took the step into management with Selsey before joining the Rebels the first time but was enticed by Brighton and Hove Albion as a number two. Hinshelwood returned to Woodside Road six years ago and in that time, he has improved results on the pitch leading to Worthing’s highest ever finish.

Summer Transfers

Worthing have signed Joan Luque from Maidstone United this summer along with striker Greg Luer from Eastbourne Borough. Michael Klass moves down a division from Aldershot Town, Roco Rees joins from Brentford and Joe Felix will get another opportunity in the National South after relegation with Dulwich Hamlet. Nicky Wheeler switches from Dorking Wanderers with Harrison Male going the other way. Ricky Aguiar joins on a season long loan from Swindon Town.

Transfers In Transfers Out
Joan Luque (Maidstone United) Lewis White (Welling United)
Nicky Wheeler (Dorking Wanderers) Harrison Male (Dorking Wanderers)
Joe Felix (Dulwich Hamlet) Darren Budd (Burgess Hill Town)
Michael Klass (Aldershot Town) James Beresford (Utahi Thani)
Greg Luer (Eastbourne Borough) Dan Bowry (St Albans City)
Roco Rees (Brentford) Alieu Secka (FC Lancing)
Ricky Aguiar (Swindon Town) Ibby Akanbi
  Conrad Honore
  Callum Chesworth
  Danny Barker

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Worthing wins: 3 / Draws: 1

Previous Matches

Worthing 3 – 0 Dartford (28/01/2023 – National South)
Dartford 1 – 2 Worthing (27/08/2022 – National South)
Worthing 1 – 2 Dartford (26/09/2009 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 2 – 1 Dartford (20/11/1982 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 3 – 0 Worthing (12/11/1927 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 1 – 0 Worthing (12/10/1921 – F.A Cup)

Next Meetings

Worthing v Dartford – Tuesday 14th November 2023
Dartford v Worthing – Saturday 2nd March 2024

Statistics

  • In the seven meetings between the sides only two have been in the league and Worthing won them both last season
  • Prior the defeat at Princes Park in August, the Darts had beaten the Rebels twice in the F.A Cup, both in the twenties
  • Dartford only win in four away games against Worthing came in the F.A Cup. Elliott Bradbrook and Jay May scored in a second qualifying round tie back in 2009

Match Highlights – 2022/2023

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Highlights courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Worthing v Dartford

Dartford return to action against Isthmian Premier League champions Worthing this weekend in the National South.

Cold weather has caused a lack of football across the non-league scene meaning both sides have not played for a fortnight. The Darts were on a strong run of form to move to the top before losing in their last outing and slipping into second. Worthing are on a five game unbeaten streak to keep them in the playoff places.

Back in August, Dartford lost 2-1 at home in their last meeting with Worthing, the Rebels first ever away win in their first ever league meeting against the Darts. Connor Essam gave the Darts a half time lead when he headed home, but six minutes into the second half Callum Kealy equalised. In the final minute of injury time Worthing stole maximum points when Joel Colbran netted the winner.

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Highlights – Dartford v Worthing (27/08/2022) – Dartford FC TV

Creating competition for places within the squad, Dowson could get new signings Jamar Loza, Tommy Block and Jernade Meade involved this weekend . Both Loza and Block previously worked with the Dartford boss at Woking. Loza impressed in two loan spells before moving to the Cards permanently. The forward will be with the Darts for at least a month after coming in from National League side Barnet, where he is yet to make an appearance for the Bees. Block arrives from Hampton and Richmond Borough after signing from Woking in the summer. The defender has scored five times this season for the Middlesex club and will provide competition to the Dartford defence. Signing until the end of the season Meade returns to Princes Park. The full back has made 25 appearances for the club and could be in line to make a second debut on Saturday. Midfielder, Luke Allen and defender Sam Odaudu are still recovering from injury.

Last time out Dartford were unable to complete a fifth consecutive victory seeing their nine game unbeaten home run in the National South come to an end. Jack Westbrook scored for Hemel Hempstead Town in the first-half, but it wasn’t long until Luke Coulson helped himself to a seventh assist in four games setting up Essam, the defender’s second goal in as many home matches. Approaching the interval the visitors went back in front with a fine strike from Kyle Ajayi. In second-half stoppage time, the Darts were caught out for a third time when new signing Jeremie Mukendi condemned Dartford to their first home loss in the league since August. Dowson called the defeat a “bad day at the office” when he spoke to Dartford FC TV post match as his side came off second best.

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Match Highlights – Dartford v Hemel Hempstead Town (14/01/2023) – Dartford FC TV

Under Adam Hinshelwood, Worthing have performed excellently in their first campaign in the division. The Rebels opened their season with a ten match unbeaten run leaving them in fourth place after five victories and five draws. Steady results at home have been bettered by the second best away record in the league. Since the 6-0 home defeat to Ebbsfleet United in early December, the Rebels have taken 11 points from their last five outings, winning their previous two league matches.

A win at Eastbourne Borough two weeks ago followed up a Sussex Senior Cup triumph, in which they moved into the semi-finals. Hinshelwood handed a debut to Portsmouth loanee Liam Vincent and he was rewarded with a goal from the ex-Bromley full back. Last season’s top scorer with 35 goals, Ollie Pearce secured the three points as Worthing won 2-0. In all competitions that was a third clean sheet in four for the Rebels after beating Lancing 4-0 in the county cup and drawing 0-0 at Hampton and Richmond Borough. Sandwiched between those games Worthing defeated Welling United 3-2, Pearce and a brace from Lewis White making the difference.

Former Dart, Davide Rodari made his debut in the victory over the Wings and also started two weeks ago against Eastbourne Borough. The forward had a spell with the Darts this season making 21 appearances and scoring three goals whilst on loan from Crawley Town. This is his second time on loan at Worthing where he scored four times in five games just under a year ago. Jake Robinson is another former Dartford player currently with Worthing and his debut in the season’s opener was one of mixed emotions. The striker who scored 17 goals in 32 matches for the Darts, including a county cup final hat-trick, netted in his first game for Worthing. Unfortunately, the striker suffered a serious knee injury and has been out ever since.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Worthing wins: 2 / Draws: 2

Current League Form

Dartford
(DWWWWL)
    Worthing
(LWDDWW)
   
Hemel Hempstead Town H 1-3 Eastbourne Borough A 2-0
Cheshunt A 3-1 Welling United H 3-2
Ebbsfleet United H 4-0 Hampton & Richmond A 0-0
Ebbsfleet United A 4-1 Bath City A 2-2
Havant & Waterlooville A 3-1 Hampton & Richmond H 4-3
Bath City H 0-0 Weymouth A 1-3

Previous Meetings

Dartford 2 – 1 Worthing (27/08/2022 – National South)
Worthing 1 – 2 Dartford (26/09/2009 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 2 – 1 Dartford (20/11/1982 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 3 – 0 Worthing (12/11/1927 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 1 – 0 Worthing (12/10/1921 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 0 – 0 Dartford (08/10/1921 – F.A Cup)

Statistics

  • Dartford top the form table over the last eight games taking 16 points. Worthing are third on 14 points.
  • Dartford have won their last three league games on the road. A fourth will be the best run under Alan Dowson’s stewardship.
  • Worthing have drawn ten games this season, the most in the division joint with Oxford City

On This Day

Dartford have scored ten goals without reply on this day which includes the 6-0 mauling of Thurrock 11 years ago. Elliot Bradbrook twice, Danny Harris, James Rogers, Lee Burns and Tony Garrod all scored on the day Ryan Hayes made his 300th Dartford appearance. Five years later, the Darts travelled to Wealdstone and picked up an impressive 4-0 victory with goals from Luke Wanadio, Hayes, Bradbrook and Andy Pugh. Dartford have won their last four on this day, in 2006 they beat Barton Rovers 2-1 in the Southern League Division One East and in 1995 defeated Greenwich Borough 3-0 in the Kent League. In league competition Dartford have won the last five on 28 January as they also won 1-0 at Watling Street against Bath City in 1989. Three years later, the Darts drew 1-1 in a Kent derby with Dover Athletic in the Southern League Cup third round.

Dartford v Worthing

Dartford hope to return to winning ways when they host Isthmian Premier League champions Worthing this weekend.

The Darts were victorious in their opening two fixtures, but have fallen short in their last two outings with a pair of defeats. Worthing are settling quickly in their first ever campaign in the National South and are one of four unbeaten teams in the division.

Alan Dowson needs to pick up his players after consecutive 2-1 losses, first at Princes Park against Havant and Waterlooville then at Taunton Town last weekend. Whilst the Hawks are expected to be challenging for promotion and currently in second place, Taunton Town are new to the division and still finding their feet. On Saturday down in Somerset, the Darts named an unchanged side for a third consecutive match and once again Davide Rodari’s goal wasn’t enough to earn any points. The man on loan from Crawley Town netted his second of the season to add to the one he scored against Havant and Waterlooville. Dartford now occupy tenth place thanks to their opening two wins at Bath City and Cheshunt in which Pierre Fonkeu grabbed a brace in each game.

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

Four games into the new campaign and Dowson’s identified what is needed to improve the team, he spoke to Dartford FC TV after Saturday’s loss and said: “Last year’s team I’ve looked at them and the new signings I’ve looked at them and we need some legs in the team”, he added: “we haven’t got anybody to win the ball back. The two centre halves will get stuck in, but around the pitch I haven’t got anybody else who is going to win a battle for us”. Leading up to this weekend’s match, the Dartford boss has been looking for the ideal type of player to compliment a team who have shown they are more than capable in possession of the ball.

Pleased with the performances of the opening three games and up to the point Taunton Town turned a one goal deficit around, Dowson may make some changes to the line-up after selecting the same eleven for the last three outings, especially with two games coming up over the Bank Holiday weekend. Goalkeeper, Daniel Wilks played his 50th game in goal for the Darts with an ankle injury and didn’t train with the team on Monday. Dowson is hopeful Wilks will be fit enough to start against Worthing. Goalscorer, Rodari limped off against Taunton Town after getting a knock on his knee, but the Dartford boss is optimistic the forward will be available. Meanwhile, Cameron Brodie has gone out on loan to Isthmian Premier League side Margate.

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Interview – Alan Dowson’s thoughts on the loss at Taunton Town – courtesy of Dartford FC TV

Worthing claimed the Isthmian Premier title with three games to spare last term, scoring a century of goals and accruing 97 points. The momentum has continued under Adam Hinshelwood with two wins on the road and two draws on their own patch. The signing of former Dart, Jake Robinson may have caught the eye. However, after his debut goal the striker picked up a knee injury ruling him out of a Princes Park return and for most of the season. Robinson scored 17 goals in 32 games for Dartford including a hat-trick in the delayed Kent Senior Cup final.

Two of Worthing’s opponents were two divisions higher last season and the Reds have picked up four points in those meetings. The first points came on the opening day with Robinson responsible for Worthing’s first ever goal in the National South after just five minutes against Dover Athletic, but Lee Martin spoiled the party as it ended 1-1.

The Sussex side didn’t have to wait long for their maiden victory beating another Kent side, Welling United 4-2. Again, Worthing were fast out the blocks when Callum Kealy put the Reds ahead, the forward signed from Dorking Wanderers in the summer. Former Dartford midfielder Tyrique Hyde levelled two minutes later before Lewis White and Joe Rye gave Hinshelwood’s men a two-goal advantage. Another ex-Dart, Ade Azeez scored to put the Wings within touching distance, but Kealy’s second secured Worthing’s first ever National South maximum.

A second win followed over Weymouth, who were playing in the National League last term. The Reds swept the Terras aside with a 3-0 win, two goals from last season’s top scorer Ollie Pearce and another by Joel Colbran continued Worthing’s unbeaten start. Last weekend the Sussex club extended their current run and kept a second clean sheet in a row earning a 0-0 draw at home to Chippenham Town. Hinshelwood gave debuts to Sammie McLeod, Adam Adam and Daniel Bowry when the trio came off the bench as substitutes. After four outings Worthing sit in third place on eight points.

Since promotion Adam Hinshelwood has strengthened his squad with several players providing National South experience. Playoff winner, Kane Wills moved back to Worthing from Dorking Wanderers, Nodirbek Bobomurodov arrived from Hungerfod Town and Charlie Towning from Eastbourne Borough. Lewis White has made the step up from Carshalton Town, whilst Adam El-Abd gives Worthing plenty of Football League experience.

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Worthing wins: 1 / Draws: 1

Current League Form

Dartford
(WWLL)
    Worthing
(DWWD)
   
Taunton Town A 1-2 Chippenham Town H 0-0
Havant and Waterlooville H 1-2 Weymouth A 3-0
Cheshunt H 2-1 Welling United A 4-2
Bath City A 2-0 Dover Athletic H 1-1

Last Five Meetings

Worthing 1 – 2 Dartford (26/09/2009 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 2 – 1 Dartford (20/11/1982 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 3 – 0 Worthing (12/11/1927 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 1 – 0 Worthing (12/10/1921 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 0 – 0 Dartford (08/10/1921 – F.A Cup)

Statistics

  • Dartford have won both games played at home against Worthing
  • The Darts have not played the Rebels for 12 years and have never met in a league fixture
  • Dartford have only ever played Worthing in F.A Cup matches. The pair have been drawn out together four times, the Darts progressed in the competition on three occasions to Worthing’s one.
  • The Darts last lost three league games in a row in April 2019, towards the end of the 2018/2019 campaign

On This Day

Goalkeeper, Deren Ibrahim scored a long-range free kick six years ago on this day as the Darts beat Hungerford Town 2-0. Ibrahim opened the scoring with just over ten minutes remaining and when Alex Brown doubled the lead the points were made safe. Tom Bonner scored in 2018 when the Darts beat East Thurrock United 2-0 at Princes Park, Ben Greenhalgh wrapped up the victory. In 2012, Nathan Collier’s late looping winner at Cambridge United earned Dartford a famous win in the National League. Danny Harris put the Darts in front before James Jennings levelled for the hosts. Dartford have won five of their last six on 27 August with Chelmsford City the only side to take points off the Darts in a 0-0 draw 11 years ago. Jay May scored a Princes Park hat-trick in 2007 as Tony Burman’s Isthmian Division North title winning side beat Aveley 4-0, Brendon Cass scored the other. The same score was recorded six years earlier in the local derby against Erith and Belvedere.

Season Preview 2022/2023

Worthing

Champions of the Isthmian Premier League means Worthing will be playing at their highest ever level and they were worthy winners. The Sussex club won the title by ten points, scored a century of goals, and almost reached the 100-point mark. After two defeats in their opening four matches the tone was set in September through to the end of November when the Reds collected 31 points from 33 available. A similar run saw them drop just four points over the same number of fixtures from mid-January to mid-March. Worthing were comfortable winners, sealing the title with three games remaining.

2021/2022 Season
Isthmian Premier: 1st
F.A Cup: 1st Qualifying Round
F.A Trophy: 2nd Round
County Cup: Runner-Up
Top League Scorer: Ollie Pearce (35 goals)

Manager – Adam Hinshelwood

In his second spell as manager, Hinshelwood claimed the Isthmian Premier League title and reached the Sussex Senior Cup final. He is son of former Dartford defender Paul Hinshelwood and racked up 100 appearances for Brighton and Hove Albion, where he also had a spell as assistant manager after his first spell at Worthing. He took the step into management with Selsey before joining the Rebels the first time, but was enticed by the Seagulls as a number two. Hinshelwood returned to Woodside Road five years ago and in that time, he has improved results on the pitch eventually leading to their highest ever finish.

Summer Transfers

Transfers In Transfers Out
Kane Wills (Dorking Wanderers) Dajon Golding (Cheshunt)
Callum Kealy (Dorking Wanderers) Will Seager (Cheshunt)
Lewis White (Carshalton Athletic) Jasper Pattenden (Wycombe Wanderers)
Adam El-Abd (Whitehawk) David Ajiboye (Peterborough United)
Jake Robinson (Dartford) Dean Cox
Nodirbek Bobomurodov (Hungerford Town)  
Charlie Towning (Eastbourne Borough)  

Head to Head

Dartford wins: 3 / Worthing wins: 1 / Draws: 1

Previous Matches

Worthing 1 – 2 Dartford (26/09/2009 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 2 – 1 Dartford (20/11/1982 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 3 – 0 Worthing (12/11/1927 – F.A Cup)
Dartford 1 – 0 Worthing (12/10/1921 – F.A Cup)
Worthing 0 – 0 Dartford (08/10/1921 – F.A Cup)

Next Meetings

Dartford v Worthing – 27/08/2022
Worthing v Dartford – 28/01/2023

Statistics

  • Dartford have won both games played at home against Worthing
  • The Darts have not played the Rebels for 12 years and have never met in a league fixture
  • Dartford have only ever played Worthing in F.A Cup matches. The pair have been drawn out together four times, the Darts progressed in the competition on three occasions to Worthing’s one.