Dover Athletic welcome Cray Valley PM to The Megger Community Stadium in the Isthmian Premier Division in a big top of the table clash.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic secured a vital 3-1 win over Lewes at The Dripping Pan, showcasing dominance early on. George Nikaj opened the scoring with a header in the 8th minute, followed by Ruben Soares-Junior doubling the lead three minutes later. Luke Baptiste’s penalty made it 3-0 before halftime. Lewes fought back in the second half, with Danny Bassett scoring in the 60th minute, but Dover’s defence, held firm. Clinical in attack and resolute at the back, Dover managed the game well to claim three crucial points.

From the Manager

“I know their manager Steve McKimm very well, our playing paths crossed. So I know what he’s about. He’s done ever so well with his team. Obviously, they’re used to winning after coming up last season and they’re a really impressive team away from home. They’ve got a lot of spirit and they fight to the very end. So, it’s going to be a real tough test. But of course, we’ll be ready for it.”

Cray Valley

On Tuesday night, Cray Valley PM secured a solid 2-0 win over Bowers & Pitsea, with Tom Beere’s sublime first-half free kick and Andre Coker’s stoppage-time tap-in sealing the points. The Millers dominated possession, creating numerous chances, but struggled to convert until Coker’s late strike, set up by Freddie Parker’s unselfish play. Bowers tested keeper Max Ovenden, who delivered a man-of-the-match performance with vital saves to preserve the clean sheet.

Cray Valley PM currently sit in 2nd place in the Isthmian Premier League, with 34 points from 17 matches. They have secured 10 wins, 4 draws, and 3 losses. At home, Cray Valley PM have been dominant, winning 6 out of 9 games, while their away form is equally strong, with 4 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses. They have scored 27 goals and conceded 18, giving them a goal difference of +9.

Last 6

26/11 – Bowers & Pitsea (H) – Won 2-0
23/11 – Potters Bar Town (H) – Drew 2-21
6/11 – Hastings United (A) – Won 1-0
09/11 – Horsham (H) – Won 1-0}
05/11 – Cray Wanderers (H) – Won 2-1
02/11 – Dartford (A) – Drew 0-0

The Venue

We look forward to welcoming Cray Valley 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.

Dover Athletic delivered a commanding performance to secure a crucial 3-1 victory over Lewes at the Dripping Pan, maintaining their push at the top of the Isthmian League Premier Division. The visitors wasted no time asserting themselves, with George Nikaj opening the scoring in the 8th minute. A perfectly timed cross from Ruben Soares-Junior found Nikaj, who expertly directed a header past the Lewes goalkeeper into the bottom corner. Moments later, Soares-Junior added a goal of his own, converting neatly to double Dover’s lead by the 11th minute.

The Whites continued to dominate the first half, pinning Lewes back and creating a string of opportunities. They were denied a third goal in the 22nd minute when the Lewes defence made a great goal line clearance. However, Dover’s persistence paid off just before the break when Luke Baptiste calmly slotted home a penalty after a foul in the box, sending the visitors into halftime with a deserved 3-0 lead.

After the interval, Lewes responded with renewed determination. Their efforts were rewarded in the 60th minute when Danny Bassett pounced on a rebound to pull one back for the hosts. This goal gave Lewes a glimmer of hope, and they began to press forward in search of a second. Despite the home side’s increased intensity, Dover’s defence held firm. Walker made several key saves to prevent Lewes from gaining further momentum, ensuring Dover maintained control of the match.

As the second half progressed, Dover managed the game expertly, using substitutions to keep the energy levels high and protect their lead. Although Lewes applied late pressure, Dover’s resilience and discipline saw them through to full-time, securing an important victory.

This win strengthens Dover’s position at the top of the table, and they will now turn their attention to next Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash against Cray Valley at The Megger Community Stadium, where another strong performance could solidify their title aspirations.

Isthmian League – Premier Division
Attendance: 606
Kick-off: 7.45pm
Venue: The Dripping Pan

Lewes: 1. Toby Bull, 2. Jerry Puemo, 4. Matt Warren, 5. Ethan Kaiser, 6. Marcus Sablier, 7. Danny Bassett (C), 8. Hamilton Antonio, 9. Gianluca Botti, 11. Tolu Ladapo, 17. Calvin Ekpiteta, 19. Marcel McIntosh SUBS: 10. Eddie Allsopp, 12. Nabeel Ghannam, 14. Shae Hutchinson, 15. Maliq Morris, 20. Ben Mundele.

Dover Athletic: 1. Mitch Walker (C), 2. Roman Charles-Cook, 3. Fuad Sesay, 6. Luca Cocoracchio, 7. Luke Baptiste, 10. George Nikaj, 14. Ruben Soares-Junior, 16. Harrison Pont, 23. George Wilkinson, 24. Francis Mampolo, 26. Jacob Mensah SUBS: 4. Jeremiah Gyebi, 5. Joe Tennent, 9. Eniye Amgbaduba, 15. Tamas Amgbaduba, 8. Alfie Matthews.

Fancy watching the Whites take on Cray Valley 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 one-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: 

Tomato Soup served with a Ciabatta Roll

Main:

Cumberland Sausage Ring served with Mash Potato, Vegetables and Onion Gravy

Desert:

Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake 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 are on the road once again in the Isthmian Premier Division to face Lewes.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic claimed a solid 2-0 victory at the Len Salmon Stadium in the Isthmian League Premier Division. Ruben Soares-Junior opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, converting George Wilkinson’s free kick at the far post. Luke Baptiste sealed the win in the 75th minute, reacting quickest to a parried shot from Francis Mampolo. Bowers threatened briefly in the second half but failed to break down Dover’s resolute defense, led by captain Mitch Walker. The Whites managed the game well, taking all three points back to Kent. Dover next face Lewes on Tuesday night.

From the Management

“Obviously, it’s going to be a very difficult place to go. They’re a little bit similar to us regarding players, they’ve recruited a lot of mobile young lads. They started the season like a house on fire. I’m really looking forward to it. The stadium is supposed to be really good and it’s going to be an interesting game. We go there full of confidence, but also fully aware of how good the side they are”

Lewes

Lewes suffered a 2-0 loss to Dartford in challenging weather at Princes Park. Olly Box opened the scoring just before halftime, finishing a Callum Jones assist. Despite Danny Bassett hitting the bar early in the second half, Dartford doubled their lead in the 57th minute when George Whitefield capitalised on chaos from a Samir Carruthers free-kick. Lewes’ hopes faded as Ethan Kaiser was sent off after two quick bookings. Despite late efforts, including Gianluca Botti’s saved shot, Lewes couldn’t break through Dartford’s defense, leaving the Rooks empty-handed.

Lewes currently sits 5th in the Isthmian Premier League, amassing 26 points from 15 matches. Their campaign includes 7 wins, 5 draws, and 3 losses. At home, Lewes have been strong, winning 6 games and drawing 4, while their away form has been mixed, with 3 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses. The team has scored 20 goals and conceded 17, maintaining a positive goal difference of +3.

Last 6

19/11 – Eastbourne Borough (H) – Lost 1-2 (Sussex Senior Cup)
16/11 – AFC Totton (H) – Lost 0-2 (FA Trophy)
12/11 – Bognor Regis Town (H) – Won 4-1
09/11 – Hendon (A) – Drew 0-0
02/11 – Chatham Town (A) – Drew 1-1
26/10 – Ashford United (H) – Drew 2-2 (Won 8-7 on penalties) (FA Trophy)

The Venue

The Dripping Pan, Mountfield Rd, Lewes BN7 2XA

Consistently voted the best away day trip for visiting fans, chosen by the Huffington Post as one of the Top 10 stadiums in Europe, and recently chosen as ‘’Britain’s Greatest Football Ground’ in a public vote for the book of the same name by Mike Bayly, The Dripping Pan is unique in so many ways.

More information: https://lewesfc.com/match-day-information/what-to-expect/

Admission  

Adults – £13.00
Concessions (Over 65) – £9.00
Under 16 – FREE

Purchase online here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/lewesfootballclub2/1428234?

Dover Athletic delivered a composed performance at the Len Salmon Stadium, clinching all three points with a 2-0 victory over Bowers & Pitsea. Goals from Ruben Soares-Junior and Luke Baptiste ensured the Whites maintained their momentum at the top of the Isthmian Premier Division table as they look ahead to Tuesday’s clash against Lewes.

The game started cautiously, with both sides struggling to create clear chances. Ruben Soares-Junior showed early intent in the 9th minute, firing a speculative long-range effort just wide. Dover gradually grew into the game, and their persistence paid off in the 22nd minute. A well-executed free kick from George Wilkinson was expertly met by Soares-Junior at the far post, giving the visitors the lead.

Despite moments of pressure from the home side, Dover maintained control for the remainder of the first half, nearly doubling their lead before the break when Baptiste’s strike was safely gathered by Bowers’ goalkeeper Rhys Byrne.

The second half saw Bowers & Pitsea push for an equaliser, with their best opportunity coming in the 65th minute when a close-range effort was narrowly missed at the near post. However, Dover’s defence, marshaled by captain Mitch Walker, remained resolute.

Dover capitalised on Bowers’ frustration in the 75th minute. Francis Mampolo showcased dazzling footwork on the edge of the box before unleashing a shot that Byrne could only parry. Baptiste reacted quickest to the rebound, calmly controlling the ball before slotting it into the net to double the Whites’ advantage.

Late substitutions from both sides failed to alter the dynamic of the game, as Dover managed the closing stages to secure a clean sheet and an important victory.

Isthmian League – Premier Division
Attendance: 251
Kick-off: 3pm
Referee: Craig Charles
Venue: Len Salmon Stadium

Bowers & Pitsea: 1. Rhys Byrne, 2. Joe Halsey, 3. Archie Johnson, 5. Dexter Peter, 9. Alex Teniola, 11. Cameron Andrews, 12. Evans Kouassi, 14. Geofrey Okonkwo, 16. Alfie Evans, 18. Malaki Toussaint, 20. TQ Addy (C) SUBS: 6. Yannis Ambroisine, 10. Nick Dembele, 15. Luke Reeve, 17. Samir Ali, 19. Malakai Hyman.

Dover Athletic: 1. Mitch Walker (C), 2. Roman Charles-Cook, 3. Fuad Sesay, 6. Luca Cocoracchio, 7. Luke Baptiste, 10. George Nikaj, 14. Ruben Soares-Junior, 16. Harrison Pont, 23. George Wilkinson, 24. Francis Mampolo, 26. Jacob Mensah SUBS: 4. Jeremiah Gyebi, 5. Joe Tennent, 9. Eniye Amgbaduba, 15. Tamas Amgbaduba, 18. Henry Young.

Dover Athletic boss Jake Leberl looks ahead to Bowers & Pitsea and Lewes trips – with the Whites still unbeaten on the road this season. He also reflect on the current eight-match unbeaten league run, which has seen us win seven of those fixtures. Speaking to Justin Allen, Jake also talks about the mobility of Jacob Mensah and injuries and suspensions.

Show your support for the Whites this holiday season with our brand-new Dover Athletic Christmas baubles! Featuring the club’s iconic crest and colors and the current squad, these festive decorations are perfect for every fan’s tree. Whether you’re gifting a fellow supporter or adding a touch of team spirit to your home, these baubles are a must-have.

Available from the club shop for £15 – grab yours before they’re gone!

Dover Athletic head to Essex in the Isthmian Premier Division to face Bowers & Pitsea as we look to continue our time at the top of the table.

Dover Athletic

On Saturday, Dover Athletic secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Canvey Island in an entertaining clash at the Megger Community Stadium. Canvey took an early lead through Elliott Ronto, with controversy surrounding his opener. Ruben Soares-Junior leveled before halftime, finishing superbly after George Nikaj’s assist. Ronto’s second, a free-kick error by Mitch Walker, restored Canvey’s advantage, but Dover responded brilliantly. Alfie Matthews curled in a stunning equaliser before Nikaj’s thunderous strike, which hit the crossbar and crossed the line, sealed the win. Dover’s resilience extended their unbeaten league run to seven games, keeping them firmly in the promotion race.

Kieron Agbebi (foot) and Joe Tennent (ankle) remain unavailable with injury. Alfie Matthews is suspended.

From the Management

“You can see in this league everybody can beat everybody. We have to turn up with the right attitude, the right mentality, and play to our strengths. The moment we come away from that, or we allow the opposition to dictate us, we’ve found it difficult. But little bits of quality, good link up play, set pieces, that wins the game. They’re the important moments that we’re going to have to really make sure that we do away from home against Bowers & Pitsea.”

Bowers & Pitsea

On Saturday, Bowers & Pitsea put up a spirited fight but fell 2-1 to Billericay Town in a tightly contested match. Despite early dominance from the hosts, Bowers threatened first as Jacob Bland set up Cameron Andrews, only for debutant Charlie Panton to deny him. After a goalless first half, Bowers conceded a penalty converted by Moses Emmanuel. Ashley Nzala added Billericay’s second, but Bland pulled one back late with a composed finish. Despite pushing for an equaliser, Bowers couldn’t break through, leaving them narrowly defeated in a competitive encounter.

Bowers & Pitsea’s league campaign has been a challenging one, leaving them in 20th place with 13 points from 14 games. Their overall record includes 4 wins, 1 draw, and 9 losses. At home, they’ve secured 3 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses, while their away form has been weaker, with only 1 win and 5 losses. They’ve scored 15 goals and conceded 21, resulting in a goal difference of -6.

Last 6

16/11 – Billericay Town (A) – Lost 1-2
09/11 – Bognor Regis Town (H) – Lost 0-1
05/11 – Harwich & Parkeston (A) – Lost 1-2 (Essex Senior Cup)
02/11 – Hendon (H) – Won 1-0
26/10 – Chatham Town (H) – Lost 0-1 (FA Trophy)
22/10 – Brightlingsea Regent (H) – Drew 2-2 (4-5 on penalties) (Alan Turvey Trophy)

The Venue

The Len Salmon Stadium, Crown Avenue Off Kenneth Road, Pitsea, Essex, SS13 2BE

Admission  

Adults – £12.00
Concessions (Over 65) – £8.00
Under 18 – £5.00
Children under 12 -£1

Purchase online here: https://bowersandpitseafc.ktckts.com/event/bwp2425lm09/bowers-pitsea-v-dover-athletic

Dover Athletic edged out Canvey Island in a thrilling encounter at the Megger Community Stadium, securing a 3-2 victory that extends their unbeaten run in the Isthmian League Premier Division to seven matches. A spirited display from the Whites in front of 911 fans saw them come from behind twice before sealing the win with a moment of brilliance.

The visitors took an early lead in controversial fashion. After Elliott Ronto’s long-range effort struck the crossbar, initial confusion arose as the assistant referee flagged for offside. However, after deliberation with referee Daniel Blades, the goal was awarded, adjudging the ball to have crossed the line. Dover responded with attacking intent, and George Nikaj came close to leveling shortly after with a fierce strike that whistled wide.

Persistence paid off just before half-time when Ruben Soares-Junior netted a beautifully crafted equaliser. Nikaj played a perfectly timed, no look ball into the forward’s path, and Soares-Junior coolly slotted home his 10th goal of the campaign.

Canvey regained the lead in the second half through Ronto’s second of the afternoon. A free-kick from distance caught Dover’s keeper Mitch Walker off guard, squirming beneath him to restore the visitors’ advantage. Despite the setback, Dover refused to buckle.

The hosts found their rhythm again, and Alfie Matthews stepped up with a stunning strike in the 72nd minute, bending the ball into the top corner to make it 2-2. Just two minutes later, George Nikaj capped off a remarkable turnaround with a thunderous effort from range. The ball cannoned off the crossbar and over the line, sparking celebrations among the home faithful.

Canvey pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, with Walker making a crucial save to deny Emmanuel Adebiyi. At the other end, Bobby Mason thwarted Soares-Junior’s bid for a second goal. However, Dover held firm to claim all three points.

Manager Jake Leberl will be pleased with his side’s resilience and attacking flair as they head into their next fixture top of the table and face off against struggling Bowers & Pitsea.

Dover Athletic: Walker, Charles-Cook, Sesay, Mensah, Cocoracchio, Baptiste (Wilkinson 76mins), Matthews, Nikaj, Soares-Junior, Pont, Mampolo (T.Amgbaduba 88mins). Subs not used: Gyebi, Young, E.Amgbaduba.

Canvey Island: Mason, Yates (Crowhurst 84mins), Stephen, Hart, Wallace (Dorrell 84mins), Parsons, Ronto, Adebiyi, Sach, Brown, Harris. Subs not used: Salmon, Tinubu, Hubble.

Dover Athletic 3
Ruben SOARES-JUNIOR (45′)
Alfie MATTHEWS (72′)
George NIKAJ (74′)

Canvey Island 2
Elliott Ronto (10′)
Elliott Ronto (57′)

Isthmian League – Premier Division
Attendance: 911
Kick-off: 3pm
Referee: Daniel Blades
Venue: Megger Community Stadium

Fancy watching the Whites take on Deal Town 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 one-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 £19.00 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 :

Main: 

Cottage Pie with Peas, Carrots and Gravy.

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