We could hardly have had a tougher fixture to start the season than the visit to Dartford, the home side having finished third last season and being favourites for promotion this season, but everyone rose to the occasion and we fought all the way for a point in front over 900 spectators, the biggest crowd in the division.
After all the work on our ground, we were reminded of the difference in circumstances between the two clubs by the notice proclaiming that this magnificent Princes Park Stadium was “Built by a Conservative Council” perhaps a reminder of the difference in catchment area and the resources available.
It was a tight game with few goal-scoring chances and we had to battle hard near the end to hang on to the point we deserved. Lewis Ward was soon in action to pull off a good save from a Danny Harris header, whilst a long ball to Stefan Brown ended up with a fruitless corner. There were a couple of corners at the other end, but Ward was again in command of his penalty area and cut out any danger. As half time approached, Matt Day was harshly penalised when no offence appeared to have been committed, but Lyle Della-Verde’s free-kick was off target.
The second half continued in the same vein , with the sides evenly matched,, but we went close when Louie Soares shot into the side-netting following a free-kick from Callum Willmoth.
Near the end, the Darts pushed forward in a desperate attempt to clinch the points and we had to hold on, with a goalline clearance by Matt Day, some good defensive work and Ward’s continuing good form saw us through
It had been a great effort by everyone.
Team; Lewis Ward, Rhys Tyler, Paul Stonehouse, Matt Partridge, Matt Day, Luke, Williams, Callum Willmoth(Ian Herring),James Rusby, Stefan Brown,Stefans Ngamvoulou(James Clark)
Louie Soares(Tom Meecham). Subs; Warrwen Bentley, Scott Rees.