Former Dover player Ryan Hanson has rejoined the club on loan from Tonbridge Angels until the end of the season.

The 24 year-old midfielder began his career at Crystal Palace as a youth before moving on to Hull City where he was a regular in their Under-23 side. On his release from the EFL club in the summer of 2021, he joined his hometown club of Dover Athletic, where he had previously spent a loan spell and in season 2021/22 he made 26 appearances for the Whites.

A good season attracted the attention of Torquay United and he signed for the then National League club during the summer of 2022. He signed for Tonbridge during the 23/24 season.

We can also confirm the departure of midfielder Charlie Naylor. We thank Charlie for his efforts this season and wish him all the best going forward.

Dover Athletic welcome Bowers & Pitsea to The Megger Community Stadium.

Dover Athletic

On Saturday, Dover Athletic earned a point in a 0-0 draw against Canvey Island in the Isthmian League Premier Division. Despite controlling large spells, they couldn’t find a breakthrough and finished with ten men after goalkeeper Jordan Gillmore’s late red card. Dover created early chances, with Francis Mampolo and Luke Baptiste going close. Canvey threatened but couldn’t convert. Dover dominated possession in the second half, making attacking substitutions, but Canvey’s defence held firm. Gillmore’s dismissal in stoppage time forced outfield player Harrison Pont into goal, and Dover held on for a draw despite late pressure.

In our previous encounter with Bowers this season Dover secured a 2-0 win at the Len Salmon Stadium, with goals from Ruben Soares-Junior and Luke Baptiste. After a cautious start, Soares-Junior broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute, heading in George Wilkinson’s free kick. Despite Bowers’ pressure, Dover remained composed, with Baptiste sealing the win in the 75th minute after Francis Mampolo’s shot was parried. Captain Mitch Walker led a solid defensive display, ensuring a clean sheet. Dover controlled the final moments, confidently seeing out the victory.

From the Manager

“Saturday was a bit of a building block. Canvey are fighting for their lives, and all these games, at this stage of the season are difficult. Like I say, it wasn’t a great game, and a draw was a fair result. But Bowers is our next game at home and obviously, we’re looking to win.”

Bowers & Pitsea

In their last outing, Bowers & Pitsea fell to a 4-1 home defeat against league leaders Billericay Town despite showing flashes of promise. The hosts conceded early when Alfie Cerulli curled in a fine strike after 11 minutes. Though Bowers tried to respond, they went 2-0 down just before halftime as Elliot Long found the bottom corner. A third followed seconds after the restart, with Cerulli finishing calmly. Bowers pulled one back through Max Fiddes in the 63rd minute, but their hopes faded when Matt Johnson’s header sealed the result.

Bowers & Pitsea sit in 22nd place in the Isthmian Premier League with 19 points from 33 matches. Their season has been challenging, managing just 5 wins, 4 draws, and suffering 24 losses. At home, they have struggled, winning only 3 of their 17 games, while their away form has been equally poor, with just 2 wins in 16 matches. They have scored 28 goals but conceded 67, resulting in a goal difference of -39.

Last 6

01/03 – Billericay Town (H) – Lost 1-4
22/02 – Bognor Regis Town (A) – Lost 0-1
15/02 – Wingate & Finchley (H) – Lost 0-6
08/02 – Dulwich Hamlet (A) – Lost 0-3
04/02 – Canvey Island (A) – Lost 0-2
01/02 – Dartford (A) – Lost 1-3

The Venue

We look forward to welcoming Bowers & Pitsea to the Megger Community Stadium. More information on getting to the ground can be found here: https://doverathletic.com/visit-crabble/

Megger Community Stadium. Crabble Athletic Ground, Lewisham Road, Dover, Kent, CT17 0JB.

Admission  

Adults: £15
Concessions: £14
U18: £9
U11: FREE with a paying adult

We now only accept card on the gate and operate a cashless ground.

Fancy watching the Whites take on Bowers & Pitsea in style? Of course you do.

The boys will be looking to put on a show and where else would you rather watch it than here with us.

Watch the game from the best seats in the house and let our match day hospitality provide the ultimate way to spend your time with us.

The package includes:

• Butler hosted lounge with large TVs and a projector showing the game
• A three-course meal served at your table
• Reserved undercover premium padded seating
• Complimentary tea, coffee & mineral water, plus a dedicated paid bar before and after the match
• Complimentary match day programme

The very special experience costs £29.95 per person and is available for individual and group bookings, or as a gift voucher.

Please note that this price does NOT include entry for non-season ticket holders who do attend, and they will still need to pay at the turnstile on the day.

On the menu for the game will be :

Starter:

Minestrone Soup served with a Ciabatta Roll

Main:

Steak Pie served with Mash Potato, Vegetables and Gravy

Dessert:

Raspberry and Elderflower Cone served with Cream

There are only 64 spaces available, so all tickets will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis.

The dress code is smart casual.

To buy your VIP ticket please email [email protected] or call the office on 01304 822373

Dover Athletic defender Joe Tennent catches up with Justin Allen to discuss his return to the club. Joe speaks about the frustrating injury he picked up, his month on loan at Whitehawk and returning with the sole aim on helping the team reignite their promotion bid. Also the Whites ace speaks about his day job – working as a football coach, including for Premier League giants Chelsea.

The Whites are looking for a Senior Ball Person to join our matchday team.

We are seeking a dedicated volunteer aged 14 and over to assist in retrieving match balls during home games. As a Senior Ball Person, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of play by quickly recovering balls that leave the pitch, whether they’ve gone down the slope or behind the stands, and returning them promptly to the dugout area.

This is a great opportunity to be part of the matchday action, gaining experience in a fast-paced sporting environment while supporting your local club. This is a volunteer role but you will be provided with a Club tracksuit, free entry to matches and a complimentary meal and drink.

Volunteers are a vital part of Dover Athletic, and we truly appreciate the time and dedication given to helping the club operate smoothly on matchdays.

If you’re interested in joining the team, please get in touch with [email protected].

Dover head to Canvey Island in the Isthmian Premier Division.

Dover Athletic

On Tuesday night, Dover Athletic’s Kent Senior Cup run ended in heartbreak as they lost to Welling United on penalties after a 1-1 draw. The match began at a high tempo with early chances for both sides. Dover threatened from the fourth minute and created a significant opportunity in the 29th minute before Eniye Amgbaduba’s rebound goal gave them a 1-0 lead. Welling equalised in stoppage time from a wide free kick, sending the match to penalties. In the shootout, missed spot-kicks and key saves decided the contest, with Dover’s Jacob Mensah failing to convert. Disappointed, Dover now refocus on their league campaign.

In the reverse fixture Dover Athletic secured a 3-2 victory over Canvey Island at the Megger Community Stadium. In front of 911 fans, controversy sparked early when a long-range effort by Elliott Ronto hit the crossbar and was awarded as a goal after offside confusion. Dover responded, and just before half-time, Ruben Soares-Junior capitalised on a pass from George Nikaj to equalise. In the second half, Ronto restored Canvey’s lead from a free-kick, but Alfie Matthews then scored, followed by a decisive finish from Nikaj to clinch the vital win.

Canvey Island

Whitehawk secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Canvey Island in the Isthmian League Premier Division at The Enclosed Ground on Saturday. The home side struck early as young Gillingham loanee Harry Bridle opened the scoring in the 9th minute. Whitehawk doubled their lead just before half-time when Emmanuel Mensah found the net in stoppage time, taking the score to 2-0 at the break. In the second half, Bridle further impressed by scoring twice more, netting in the 49th and 54th minutes to seal the win and his hat trick.

Canvey Island sits in 18th place in the Isthmian Premier League with 34 points from 31 matches. Their season has been challenging, with 11 wins, 1 draw, and 19 losses. At home, they have managed 5 wins from 16 matches, while their away form has been slightly worse, securing just 6 wins from 15 games. They have scored 39 goals but conceded 54, leaving them with a goal difference of -15.

Last 6

22/02 – Whitehawk (A) – Lost 0-4
18/02 – Chelmsford City (H) – Won 0 (3) – 0 (2) on penalties (Essex Senior Cup Semi-final)
15/02 – Bognor Regis Town (H) – Lost 0-4
08/02 – Carshalton Athletic (A) – Lost 1-2
04/02 – Bowers & Pitsea (H) – Won 2-0
01/02 – Chatham Town (H) – Won 1-0

The Venue

The Steves Taxis Stadium, Park Lane, Canvey Island, Essex, SS8 7PX

More information: https://www.canveyislandfc.com/information

Admission  

£12.00 Adults
£8.00 Concessions (over-60’s, students with valid ID)
£3.00 U16’s (must be accompanied by an adult)

Dover Athletic welcome Chatham to The Megger Community Stadium.

Dover Athletic

On Saturday, Dover Athletic fell to their third straight defeat, losing 2-0 to Whitehawk at the Megger Community Stadium. Harry Bridle capitalised on an early defensive lapse to open the scoring in the eighth minute. Despite dominating possession, Dover struggled to break down a resilient Whitehawk defence. George Nikaj and Ruben Soares-Junior linked up well, but goalkeeper Joseph Osaghae kept Dover at bay. As the hosts pushed for an equaliser, Whitehawk sealed the win in stoppage time through Billie Clark’s breakaway goal.

In our previous encounter with Chatham this season Dover played to a 1-1 draw in a competitive Isthmian League Premier Division clash at The Bauvill Stadium, watched by 1,903 fans. Chatham dominated early possession but couldn’t break Dover’s defence, with the first half ending goalless. Jack Evans gave Chatham the lead in the 51st minute with a curling strike, but Dover responded swiftly as George Nikaj equalised in the 64th. Both sides pushed for a winner, but resolute defending and key saves ensured the points were shared.

From the Manager

“Overall, we’re pleased with the performance against Welling and we have to take that into Saturday. Last Saturday wasn’t good enough. Things have gone against us in recent weeks, but Saturday, nothing went against us – we just weren’t good enough and we have to take full responsibility. Us as management team take full responsibility for that. We want to repay the fans support and make sure that we put on a performance that gets the supporters excited again. 11 games to go so it’s really important that the supporters continue to get behind us and hopefully we get back to winning ways.”

Chatham

On Saturday, Chatham Town battled to a 1-1 draw against Horsham, after falling behind in the first half. Horsham took the lead in the 38th minute when Harvey Sparks’ free kick curled directly into the net. Chatham responded just after halftime as Jamie Yila’s driven cross caused chaos, with Kareem Isiaka credited for the equaliser. The Chats dominated for a spell, with Yila creating chances, but a breakthrough remained elusive. Debutant goalkeeper Henry Molyneux impressed, while Jordy Robins dictated midfield. A frantic finish saw Chatham push for a winner, but both sides settled for a hard-fought point.

Chatham Town sits in 13th place in the Isthmian Premier League with 39 points from 30 matches. Their season has been a mixed bag, recording 10 wins, 9 draws, and 11 losses. At home, they have managed 5 wins from 15 matches, while their away form is identical, with 5 wins from 15 games. They have scored 40 goals but conceded 35, giving them a goal difference of +5.

Last 6

15/02 – Horsham (A) – Drew 1-1
08/02 – Cray Wanderers (H) – Lost 1-4
01/02 – Canvey Island (A) – Lost 0-1
28/01 – Hashtag United (A) – Won 3-2 (Alan Turvey Trophy)
19/01 – Potters Bar Town (A) – Lost 0-1
11/01 – Wingate & Finchley (H) – Won 3-1

The Venue

We look forward to welcoming Chatham to the Megger Community Stadium. More information on getting to the ground can be found here: https://doverathletic.com/visit-crabble/

Megger Community Stadium. Crabble Athletic Ground, Lewisham Road, Dover, Kent, CT17 0JB.

Admission  

Adults: £15
Concessions: £14
U18: £9
U11: FREE with a paying adult

We now only accept card on the gate and operate a cashless ground.

Fancy watching the Whites take on Chatham in style? Of course you do.

The boys will be looking to put on a show and where else would you rather watch it than here with us.

Watch the game from the best seats in the house and let our match day hospitality provide the ultimate way to spend your time with us.

The package includes:

• Butler hosted lounge with large TVs and a projector showing the game
• A three-course meal served at your table
• Reserved undercover premium padded seating
• Complimentary tea, coffee & mineral water, plus a dedicated paid bar before and after the match
• Complimentary match day programme

The very special experience costs £29.95 per person and is available for individual and group bookings, or as a gift voucher.

Please note that this price does NOT include entry for non-season ticket holders who do attend, and they will still need to pay at the turnstile on the day.

On the menu for the game will be :

Starter:

Pate served with Melba Toast and Salad Garnish

Main:

Cottage Pie served with Vegetables and Gravy

Dessert:

Apple Tart served with Ice Cream

There are only 64 spaces available, so all tickets will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis.

The dress code is smart casual.

To buy your VIP ticket please email [email protected] or call the office on 01304 822373

Dover head to Welling in the Semi Final of the Kent Senior Cup

Dover Athletic

On Saturday, Dover Athletic fell to their third straight defeat, losing 2-0 to Whitehawk at the Megger Community Stadium. Harry Bridle capitalised on an early defensive lapse to open the scoring in the eighth minute. Despite dominating possession, Dover struggled to break down a resilient Whitehawk defence. George Nikaj and Ruben Soares-Junior linked up well, but goalkeeper Joseph Osaghae kept Dover at bay. As the hosts pushed for an equaliser, Whitehawk sealed the win in stoppage time through Billie Clark’s breakaway goal.

In the Quarter Final, Dover Athletic advanced with a composed 2-0 win over Deal Town at The Megger Community Stadium. Ruben Soares-Junior opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a precise finish, while George Nikaj sealed the victory in the 63rd after a smart assist from Soares-Junior. Deal pressed but struggled to break down Dover’s defence, with goalkeeper Claudio Boakye-Sarfo making key saves.

From the Manager

“We want to do well in every game, every game we play in. We’ll probably give a few of the other boys an opportunity that haven’t been playing in this match. But we’ll have a think over that at the weekend and see where we’ll go.”

Welling United

Our hosts Welling United fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat against National League South leaders Dorking Wanderers at Park View Road, despite a spirited performance. The visitors struck in the seventh minute as Josh Taylor turned and found the top corner. Welling responded well, with Harvey Walker testing the keeper and Gene Kennedy rattling the crossbar. Just before halftime, TJ Bramble squandered a golden chance to equalise. The second half saw few opportunities, as both teams battled in midfield. Ultimately, Welling couldn’t break through.

Welling United advanced to the Kent Senior Cup semi-finals with a thrilling 4-3 win over Phoenix Sports. The Wings dominated early, with Josh Redfearn scoring in the seventh minute before TJ Bramble volleyed in for 2-0. Phoenix roared back after halftime, equalising with two quick goals—one from a penalty after Bramble’s red card. Welling regained control with two penalties converted by Elliot Long. A stunning strike from Harvey Browne set up a tense finale, but Welling held on.

Welling United sits in 21st place in the National League South with 31 points from 33 matches. Their season has been challenging, securing 9 wins, 4 draws, and suffering 20 defeats. At home, they have managed 6 wins from 17 matches, while their away form has been weaker, with just 3 wins from 16 games. They have scored 35 goals but conceded 60, leaving them with a goal difference of -25.

Last 6

15/02 – Dorking Wanderers (H) – Lost 0-1
11/02 – Enfield (A) – Lost 0-2
08/02 – St Albans City (H) – Drew 1-1
01/02 – Weymouth (A) – Lost 1-5
25/01 – Weston-super-Mare (A) – Won 4-1
18/01 – Boreham Wood (H) – Lost 0-1

The Venue

Park View Road, Welling, Kent, DA16 1SY

More information: https://wellingunited.com/club/stadium/

Admission  

Adult (18+) – £10.00

Concession – £5.00

15 years and under – £0.00

Tickets can be purchased online: https://wellingunited.com/matches/2024-25/18650/welling-utd-vs-dover/

Dover Athletic suffered their third consecutive defeat as they fell 2-0 to Whitehawk at the Megger Community Stadium. A goal in each half saw the visitors leave with all three points, with Harry Bridle capitalising on an early defensive lapse before Billie Clark sealed the win in stoppage time.

The hosts started brightly, showing early intent when Ruben Soares-Junior delivered a cross in the second minute, though no one was able to meet it. Dover continued to press, with George Nikaj and Soares-Junior linking up well in the opening exchanges. However, Whitehawk struck first in the eighth minute after a defensive error gifted Bridle a chance, and he made no mistake in slotting the ball past Jordan Gillmore.

Dover attempted an immediate response, with a trademark long throw from Tamas Amgbaduba causing some trouble in the Whitehawk box, but the visitors’ defence held firm. The home side struggled to create clear-cut chances despite enjoying good spells of possession.

The best opportunity of the half for Dover came in the 21st minute when Nikaj floated a ball in for Soares-Junior, whose header was brilliantly tipped over the bar by Whitehawk goalkeeper Joseph Osaghae.

Tempers flared on the touchline, with Dover’s assistant manager Mike Sandmann receiving a yellow card in the 15th minute. Meanwhile, the visitors pushed for a second goal, forcing Gillmore into a series of superb saves in the latter stages of the half to keep the deficit to just one goal at the break.

Dover came out with renewed purpose after halftime, pinning Whitehawk back in their own half. Despite dominating possession, the Whites struggled to break down a resolute defence.

A promising spell saw Dover get their first shot on target of the second half in the 57th minute, but Osaghae was equal to it once again. As the game wore on, Whitehawk focused on frustrating their hosts, absorbing pressure and making frequent stoppages, which disrupted Dover’s attacking flow.

As the clock ticked down, Dover intensified their efforts, launching wave after wave of attacks. However, the final product remained elusive. The closest they came to an equaliser was in the 89th minute when Soares-Junior’s effort inside the box was well saved by Osaghae.

With eight minutes of added time, Dover pushed men forward in search of a late leveller, but they were caught on the break in the 94th minute. Whitehawk substitute Billie Clark broke free and finished clinically to secure the victory, sparking celebrations among the small traveling support.

Dover Athletic:
27 Jordan Gillmore, 5 Joe Tennent, 3 Fuad Sesay, 6 Luca Cocoracchio, 7 Luke Baptiste, 15 Tamas Amgbaduba, 10 George Nikaj, 14 Ruben Soares-Junior (C), 23 George Wilkinson, 16 Harrison Pont, 26 Jacob Mensah SUBS: 25 Charlie Naylor, 9 Eniye Amgbaduba, 2 Roman Charles-Cook, 28 Kweku-Conrad Lucan, 24 Francis Mampolo

Whitehawk:
1 Joseph Osaghae, 2 Stefan Wright, 3 Will Seager, 4 Andrew Briggs, 5 Geofrey Okonkwo, 19 Jamie Watson, 7 Emmanuel Mensah, 9 Harry Bridle, 8 Rob O’Toole, 10 Charlie Walker (C), 11 Imran Kayani SUBS: 14 Luke Cook, 12 Charlie Lambert, 15 Josh Nandhra, 16 Billie Clark, 17 Eugene Asike

Isthmian League – Premier Division
Attendance: 645
Kick-off: 3pm
Referee: George Lynch