*BS*Vice captain Ian Simpemba spoke to doverathletic.com ahead of Saturday’s big game about the secret of promotion and the quality in Whites’ squad.*BF*

Simpemba, who has experienced promotion from Conference South on two previous occasions with Lewes and Ebbsfleet, shared his view on Dover’s best chance of getting back into the Conference.

“50-60% of the game is about being organised. The back five or six need to be solid and concentrate on not conceding, whereas the rest of the team need to help get the goals.”

Of his vocal style on the pitch, Ian said: “Ever since I started playing football I have always been like it and have been captain at every club I have played for.”

Saturday’s big game at Crabble pits Dover against early pace setters Salisbury City but Simpemba said: “We see it as simply another game. It will be tough, but whatever the result the title will not be settled this early on in the season.”

Whites go into the game with only one home league win to their name this season. Ian gave his theory: “Away from home, teams tend to come at us more and move up the pitch, whereas at home they tend to park the bus and hit us on the counter attack. It makes it difficult for us to unlock the defence.

“With the creative players we have, like Barry Cogan and Daryl McMahon, it won’t be long before we start to string some home wins together.”

*Lpic1*The commanding defender, who has developed an impressive partnership with fellow centre-back Danny Webb, with whom he previously played alongside at Havant and Waterlooville, hailed the defensive influence of Assistance Manager and former Premier League player Steve Brown.

Ian said: “You only have to listen to him for five minutes before you realise all the Dover defenders are so privileged.”

He also praised the quality of the squad Nicky Forster has assembled and the competition for places it brings.

“Every footballer wants to see the best players join their club; the quality of training is better and it keeps everyone on top of their game. If you lose your place in the side, you might not get it back for eight or nine games.”

Ian used the recent signing of Daryl McMahon from Eastleigh as a prime example: “The club signing a quality player like Daryl gives everyone a lift; he is the best player in the league.”