JIM PARMENTER wants fans to create a “positive atmosphere” at the club – and cheer top-of-the-table Whites to another three points this Saturday.
Clive Walker’s side stormed to the top on Tuesday night thanks to a five-star second half performance, which blitz Corinthian Casuals.
The 5-0 win is Whites’ biggest awayday league victory in recent memory and has seen us go two points clear with games in hand.
All this has been achieved with a squad which has been decimated by injuries. Craig Cloke, Daniel Braithwaite, Shane Hamshare, Danny Chapman, Tommy Tyne and Dean Readings have all spent time on the sidelines.
Chairman Jim said: “It’s absolutely superb what Clive and his players are achieving so far this season. To think we are top of the table, with games in hand over our nearest rivals, despite losing half a team through injury.
“This is testament to the battling qualities that are in the squad. It’s been a great effort by all concerned and I think they should be receiving plaudits, not criticism.”
There has been much debate among fans about Dover’s performances this season. Clive and Jim themselves admitted displays at Hastings and Molesey, and at home against Banstead on Saturday, were not good enough.
However, some fans have been critical all the way through the season – even when the club boasted a 100 per cent record after seven games, our best start to a league campaign for years.
Jim said: “The majority of fans have been great and, yes, we’ve all been a bit critical, and rightly so, of a few performances such as the ones at Hastings and Molesey.
“And Clive was not too happy about the display at Crabble on Saturday, although we won – but that’s because we have high standards.
“However, constant moaning is not going to do anyone any good. We have hit the depths of being top of the table!
“I am all for debate and being critical when we’ve not turned up to games – but to moan when we win matches and are top of the table is a bit silly, in my opinion.
“Since coming back to the club, we’ve been trying to create a positive atmosphere and restore DAFC’s winning mentality. I believe we’re doing that.
“I don’t want to complain about the fans in general – because they’ve been superb. The crowds get behind us, turn up in large numbers and have played a big part in saving this club.
“But, surely when a side is top of the table and winning matches, they deserve credit – not criticism.
“I’d love to see a thousand turn up on Saturday to cheer on a team that is bidding to win the league, and with it promotion back to the Premier Division.
“Our objective is to get back to the Conference. We are going to work hard to do that – but we need everyone on-side to make it happen.”
Meanwhile, the club can confirm it has made a number of seven-day approaches for potential new players. But, at present, Clive is weighing up his options – and will only sign someone who will improve the squad.