Category: Club News

Up Next – Dover Athletic vs Billericay Town

Dover Athletic welcome Billericay to The Megger Community Stadium.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic claimed a 2-0 win over Hastings United at The Pilot Field in a confident display. Luke Baptiste opened the scoring in the 14th minute, followed by a brilliant team goal finished by George Nikaj in the 29th. Hastings improved after halftime, creating chances but failing to capitalise as Dover’s defence held firm. Despite late pressure, Dover’s resilience ensured a clean sheet and all three points. A professional performance combined clinical first-half finishing with determined defending, keeping Dover firmly on track in the Isthmian League Premier Division.

Billericay Town

Yesterday, Billericay Town secured an impressive 3-0 home victory over Canvey Island. Tyrell Miller-Rodney opened the scoring early, followed by Tommy Davis doubling the lead with a striker-like finish. Canvey missed a chance to respond when Bradley Sach’s penalty was saved by Blues goalkeeper Donkin. Substitute Arj Krasniqi sealed the win with a stunning late free-kick. The Blues dominated much of the match, thwarting Canvey’s efforts and creating numerous opportunities.

Billericay Town currently sits 2nd in the Isthmian Premier League with 42 points from 21 matches. Recording 12 wins, 6 draws, and 3 losses. At home, they have been particularly strong, securing 8 wins from 11 matches, while their away form is solid with 4 wins and 3 draws in 10 matches. Billericay has scored 39 goals and conceded 19, giving them a goal difference of +20.

Last 5

26/12 – Canvey Island (H) – Won 3-0
21/12 – Cray Wanderers (A) – Drew 1-1
14/12 – Hastings United (H) – Drew 1-1
07/12 – Wingate & Finchley (A) – Won 1-0
03/12 – Horsham (H) – Won 2-1
30/11 – Hendon (H) – Won 1-0

The Venue

We look forward to welcoming Billericay 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.

Report – Hastings United 0-2 Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic delivered a composed and professional performance at The Pilot Field to claim a 2-0 victory against Hastings United. First-half goals from Luke Baptiste and George Nikaj were enough to secure all three points.

The game began with Dover taking early control, capitalising on signs of nervousness from the hosts. A route-one attack nearly paid off in the 9th minute, but Luke Baptiste’s effort was blocked. Just five minutes later, Baptiste broke the deadlock with a well-taken goal, capitalising on Dover’s dominance in the early stages. The visitors continued to press and were rewarded again in the 29th minute with a moment of brilliance. George Nikaj finished off a stunning team move, topping off Dover’s fluid and cohesive attacking play.

Hastings United made three changes at halftime in an effort to regain control of the game. They started the second half with renewed energy and created several opportunities, coming close in the 51st and 53rd minutes. Despite the pressure, Dover’s defence, stood strong. Gillmore made a crucial save in the 77th minute to deny Hastings at the near post, preserving his side’s clean sheet.

As Hastings pushed forward in the final stages of the match, Dover dropped deeper to protect their lead. A chaotic scramble in the 79th minute somehow kept the ball out of Dover’s net, as the visitors held firm against a wave of Hastings attacks. In the closing minutes, Dover expertly managed the game, soaking up pressure and ensuring their two-goal advantage remained intact.

The result solidifies Dover’s position at the top of Isthmian League Premier Division going into a congested period of fixtures, with Billericay up next at Crabble.

Hastings United 0-2 Dover Athletic
Scorers: Baptiste (14′), Nikaj (29′)
Isthmian League – Premier Division
Attendance: 1,239
Venue: The Pilot Field

Hastings United: 1 Matt Kerbey, 2 Kane Penn, 3 George Walker, 4 Jack Dixon, 5 Finn O’Mara, 6 Sam Cruttwell, 7 Davide Rodari, 8 Ben Wells, 9 Will Harley, 10 Tommie Fagg, 11 Adam Lovatt (C) SUBS: 12 Kian Moynes, 14 Tom Howard, 15 Finley Chapman, 16 Freddie Legg, 17 Kyron McKay

Dover Athletic: 27 Jordan Gillmore, 2 Roman Charles-Cook, 3 Fuad Sesay, 6 Luca Cocoracchio, 7 Luke Baptiste, 8 Alfie Matthews, 10 George Nikaj, 14 Ruben Soares-Junior (C), 13 George Wilkinson, 25 Charlie Naylor, 26 Jacob Mensah SUBS: 4 Jeremiah Gyebi, 5 Joe Tennent, 9 Eniye Amgbaduba, 15 Tamas Amgbaduba, 24 Francis Mampolo

Up Next – Hastings vs Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic head down the coast to East Sussex to take on Hastings on Boxing Day.

Dover Athletic

On Saturday, Dover Athletic secured a gritty 2-1 away win at Cheshunt, thanks to first-half goals from George Nikaj and Luke Baptiste. Nikaj opened the scoring in the 4th minute, finishing a Ruben Soares-Junior cross. Baptiste doubled the lead with a composed strike after a flowing move. Dover dominated the first half, nearly adding a third, while Cheshunt struggled to gain momentum. The hosts improved after the break, but Dover’s defence, led by Luca Cocoracchio, held firm. Uko Oji’s 83rd-minute goal sparked late drama, but Dover managed the final minutes expertly to claim the points.

From the Manager

“It’s going to be a big period for every club, there’s a lot of points to be won over this period. It’s really good to bounce back after last week and we’re looking forward to the 4 games coming up, obviously the boys enjoy being together and we’re looking forward to picking up points over the Christmas period”

Hastings

On Saturday, Hastings United fell 4-2 to Bowers & Pitsea despite a spirited fightback. After conceding two early goals, Fin Chapman pulled one back before halftime, setting up an exciting second half. Davide Rodari equalized in the 60th minute with a well-taken goal, giving Hastings hope. However, defensive lapses proved costly as Bowers scored twice late on, with Dexter Peter and Evan Kouassi sealing the visitors’ victory. Despite moments of promise, Hastings struggled to maintain momentum and were punished for errors in critical moments.

Hastings United currently sits in 18th place in the Isthmian Premier League with 20 points from 20 matches. Their campaign has been challenging, featuring 5 wins, 5 draws, and 10 losses. At home, they have secured 3 wins, 2 draws, and 5 losses, while their away form reflects a similar struggle with 2 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses. Hastings has scored 22 goals but conceded 42, leaving them with a goal difference of -20.

Last 6

21/12 – Bowers & Pitsea (H) – Lost 2-4
14/12 – Billericay Town (A) – Drew 1-1
07/12 – Chichester City (A) – Won 3-2
03/12 – Cray Valley PM (H) – Drew 1-1 (Won 5-4 on penalties) (Alan Turvey Trophy)
30/11 – Dartford (H) – Lost 0-3
26/11 – Carshalton Athletic (H) – Drew 1-1

The Venue

Address:  Pilot Field, Elphinstone Road Hastings East Sussex TN34 2AX

More information: https://www.hastingsunited.com/club/getting-to-the-ground/

Admission  

Adult £12 (£13 on the day)
Concession £8 (£9 on the day)
U16 FREE

Buy online: https://hufc.onlineticketseller.com/events/94386

Turnstiles open at 12:30 Merchandise Shop, Burger & Tea Bar and Pilot Bar will be open

Matchday Programmes will be on sale £3.00

Report – Cheshunt 1-2 Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Cheshunt, with first-half goals from George Nikaj and Luke Baptiste proving enough to secure the points, despite a late response from Uko Oji for the hosts.

The visitors started brightly and capitalised on their dominance in the early stages. Just four minutes in, Ruben Soares-Junior burst down the wing, delivering a pinpoint pass across the face of goal for Nikaj to slot home. It was a clinical finish from the forward, and it set the tone for a Dover side that looked full of intent.

Cheshunt struggled to find a foothold in the game, with Dover exploiting the wet and windy conditions to great effect. The Whites continued to press, and Baptiste nearly doubled the lead in the 18th minute with a curling effort that narrowly missed the far post.

Dover’s persistence paid off again in the 30th minute. A flowing move involving Nikaj, Alfie Matthews, and Baptiste saw the latter receive a clever through ball before firing past the Cheshunt goalkeeper to make it 2-0. The Whites could have added a third before the break, but Wilkinson’s diving header sailed over the bar.

Cheshunt came out with more urgency in the second half, but Dover’s defence, marshaled superbly by Luca Cocoracchio, stood firm. Cocoracchio made a crucial last-ditch tackle in the 63rd minute to deny the hosts a clear chance.

As the game wore on, Cheshunt began to throw more bodies forward. Substitute Uko Oji gave the home side hope in the 83rd minute, finding the back of the net to set up a tense finish. However, Dover managed the final minutes well, with Nikaj shielding the ball in the corner and the team showing resilience to secure the win.

Billericay Town – VIP Style

Fancy watching the Whites take on Billericay 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: 

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

Club Statement: Megger Sponsorship Extended

Dover Athletic are delighted to announce that Megger will continue as the main sponsor for a further three years.

The agreement will see Megger continuing to support the club on the field as well as importantly continuing to take an active and leading role in the club’s community work through its Community Trust, youth and girl’s football.    

Jeremy Simpson the Megger Group CFO commented:

“Megger are delighted to be renewing our sponsorship of Dover Athletic for another 3 years. The recent past on the pitch has been a bit of a roller coaster, but we appreciate how important the club is to the Dover community and are delighted with the progress the team are making this year under the leadership of Jim, Jake and the wider group. We look forward to the future success we’re sure will come to the Whites.”   

Dover Athletic Chairman Jim Parmenter added:

“Megger have been tremendous for us over the past three years and we are delighted that they are able to continue their support, which not only supports the team on the pitch but makes the majority of our community activity possible. We are extremely grateful to Megger and Jeremy Simpson and will do all we can to make the continued partnership successful.”  

Preview – Cheshunt vs Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic head to Hertfordshire to take on Cheshunt in the Isthmian Premier Division

Dover Athletic

On Saturday, Dover Athletic’s unbeaten run ended with a 1-0 loss to Cray Wanderers in a tense Isthmian League Premier Division match at Crabble. Despite dominating possession and creating chances, Dover struggled to break through Cray’s defence. George Nikaj’s early effort was saved, and Ruben Soares-Junior received a yellow card as tensions flared. Cray struck in the 47th minute through Kenny Coker, and although Dover pressed relentlessly, efforts from Francis Mampolo and Luke Baptiste, including a header off the crossbar, fell short. Frustration grew as Cray held firm, securing all three points.

Cheshunt

On Tuesday, Cheshunt secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bowers & Pitsea in the Isthmian League Premier Division at The Cheshunt Stadium. The match began at a frantic pace, with early chances for both sides, but it was Uko Oji’s composed 38th-minute finish that proved decisive. The Ambers defended resolutely, with Tommy Wood’s disallowed second-half goal and a brilliant point-blank save from the Bowers keeper adding to the drama. Despite late pressure, including a dubious stoppage-time free kick, Cheshunt held firm to claim all three points.

Cheshunt currently sits 19th in the Isthmian Premier League with 20 points from 19 matches. Recording 5 wins, 5 draws, and 9 losses. At home, Cheshunt have struggled with just 2 wins from 10 games, while their away form has been slightly better, with 3 wins and 2 draws in 9 matches. They have scored 26 goals but conceded 30, resulting in a goal difference of -4.

Last 6

17/12 – Bowers & Pitsea (H) – Won 1-0
14/12 – Horsham (A) – Lost 1-3
10/12 – Chatham Town (H) – Lost 0-1
30/11 – Dulwich Hamlet (H) – Drew 1-1
23/11 – Carshalton Athletic (A) – Drew 1-1
19/11 – Billericay Town (A) – Lost 0-3 (Velocity Cup 4)

The Venue

Address:  The Stadium, Theobalds Lane, Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, EN8 8RU

What Three Words: galaxy.sunset.visa

More information: https://cheshuntfc.com/club/cheshunt-fc-a-guide-for-supporters-of-visiting-clubs/

Admission  

Ticket Prices for 1st team matches at the turnstile are:

Adult £14
Concession £10  
U17 £6
U12 £2

Discounted tickets can be purchased in advance at:

https://cheshuntfc.ktckts.com/brand/match-tickets

Report – Dover Athletic 0-1 Cray Wanderers

Dover Athletic’s unbeaten run came to a disappointing end as they fell 1-0 to Cray Wanderers at Crabble on a tense afternoon in the Isthmian League Premier Division. Despite creating several chances and applying sustained pressure, the Whites were unable to find the back of the net, while the visitors made the most of a second-half breakthrough.

From the outset, this match was a fiery encounter. Dover’s George Nikaj had an early opportunity on 3 minutes but saw his effort saved by Cray goalkeeper Shaun Rowley. The match settled into a pattern of aggressive play, with both teams committing fouls and tackling hard. On 15 minutes, Ruben Soares-Junior received a yellow card for a late challenge, and Dover continued to press, though referee Benjamin McDonald made a series of contentious decisions which seemed to frustrate the home crowd.

In the 30th minute, Dover earned a corner after a flurry of shots on goal, but nothing came of the set piece. The half continued in much the same vein, with Baptiste coming close in the 42nd minute, his header tipped over the bar by Rowley after some excellent work from the Dover attack. But with no further clear-cut chances, the first half ended goalless.

Dover started the second half brightly but were stunned on 47 minutes when Cray Wanderers took the lead. A quick break saw the ball delivered to the feet of striker Kenny Coker, who managed to slot it past Jordan Gillmore to make it 1-0. The goal gave Cray a vital advantage, and Dover struggled to get back into the rhythm they had in the first half.

On 50 minutes, Dover nearly responded immediately when Francis Mampolo stabbed a shot just wide of the post, but it was becoming clear that the home side’s frustration was mounting. A tussle between Dover’s Alfie Matthews and a Cray player led to a stoppage in play on the hour mark, resulting in Matthews receiving a yellow card on 62 minutes.

Dover continued to apply pressure, and a superb header from Luke Baptiste in the 70th minute looked destined for the back of the net, but it crashed off the crossbar. The near-miss epitomised Dover’s afternoon, as despite creating several opportunities, they could not break through.

In the final stages, Dover piled on the pressure, earning a succession of corners in the 86th minute, but again they were unable to convert, and Cray held firm defensively.

In the end, it was Cray Wanderers who took all three points, with Dover’s unbeaten streak in the league coming to an unfortunate end. The Whites will need to regroup quickly ahead of their next fixture against Cheshunt.

Welcome Charlie Naylor

Dover Athletic are pleased to announce the signing of Charlie Naylor.

The 23-year old made 42 appearances for the Whites last season in the Vanarama National League South.

Prior to that, Naylor had a stint in America with Wesleyan and he has spent the beginning of this season with fellow Isthmian Premier Division clubs Chatham Town and Cheshunt.

Welcome back, Charlie!

CRAY WANDERERS – VIP STYLE

Fancy watching the Whites take on Cray Wanderers 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:

Pate served with Melba Toast and Salad Garnish

Main:

Cottage Pie served with Peas, Carrots 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