Dover Athletic are back on the road this weekend as they travel to Cherrywood Road to face Farnborough in the National League South. The Whites head into the fixture on the back of an excellent 1-0 victory away at Dagenham & Redbridge, where Jack Bates’ first-half strike and a determined defensive display secured all three points under the lights. Farnborough, meanwhile, sit 15th in the table after seven matches, having collected 10 points from three wins, one draw and three defeats. Spencer Day’s side will be looking for a response after consecutive losses against Tonbridge Angels and Hampton & Richmond Borough. With both sides aiming to build momentum in the early stages of the campaign, another competitive afternoon awaits in Hampshire.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Dagenham & Redbridge, with Jack Bates’ first-half strike proving the difference. The Whites started brightly, with Bates releasing Sheriff down the flank before Andrews headed over inside three minutes. Dagenham soon grew into the game, forcing Walker into saves from Papadopoulos and Carroll, while Baptiste produced a crucial goal-line clearance from Beautyman. Dover took the lead in the 26th minute when Bates twisted and turned on the edge of the box before firing beyond Ashmore. The visitors nearly doubled their advantage before the break as Baptiste played Andrews through, but his effort rolled wide. Sheriff went close shortly after half-time, while Dagenham continued to apply pressure through a series of crosses and set pieces. Jones and Walker repeatedly dealt with the danger, although Dover briefly thought they had scored a second when the ball found the net from a corner, only for a foul to be given. Oyenuga, Wilkinson and Beadle were introduced as Dover looked to see the game out, and despite six minutes of stoppage time, the Whites remained resolute to secure all three points.

From the Management

“Last season, we went down to Farnborough in the league game and had a really good result and performance. Then the week after, we went down there and lost in the FA Cup with a terrible performance. Obviously, the result at Dagenham will give everyone a boost, but let’s not get carried away — one game at a time.”

Farnborough

Farnborough suffered a second successive defeat as Hampton & Richmond Borough claimed a 2-0 victory at the Beveree Stadium. The visitors, looking to respond after a 4-0 defeat to Tonbridge Angels, made a lively start and struck the post before seeing another effort cleared off the line. However, Hampton took the lead after 12 minutes when Farnborough failed to clear a Kretzschmar delivery and Jackson converted at the back post. Farnborough’s task became considerably harder when Okoye was sent off following a challenge on Barrett. Despite being reduced to ten men, they defended resolutely to reach half-time only one goal behind. The Yellows responded well after the interval and enjoyed their strongest spell of the game, looking the more likely side to score as they pushed for an equaliser. Hampton eventually regained control, with Kretzschmar missing an opportunity before seeing another effort ruled out for offside. The hosts finally doubled their advantage in the 78th minute when substitute Hassan delivered a low cross for Mather, who finished first time into the top corner. Farnborough were unable to find a response in the closing stages, leaving Hampton to secure a 2-0 win and clean sheet.

Farnborough head into Saturday’s meeting with Dover Athletic sitting 15th in the National League South after a mixed opening seven games. Spencer Day’s side have collected 10 points from three wins, one draw and three defeats, with a goal difference of minus four. The Yellows endured a difficult campaign last season, eventually finishing 19th after spending time looking over their shoulders towards the relegation places. That prompted significant change over the summer, with Day rebuilding much of his squad and bringing in a number of players with experience higher up the pyramid. Among the arrivals were Sam Barratt, Tom Lapslie, Max Ehmer, Tyler Frost, Alex Whittle, Josh Parker and Sam Okoye, while goalkeeper Lucas Thomas joined on loan from Luton Town. The overhaul followed the departures of several established players, including last season’s leading scorer Rakish Bingham. Their early results have reflected the unpredictability of such a heavily changed group. Farnborough recorded an impressive 2-0 victory away at Braintree Town but have since suffered consecutive defeats, losing 4-0 at home to Tonbridge Angels before Tuesday night’s 2-0 reverse at Hampton & Richmond Borough, where Okoye was sent off in the first half. Day’s side will therefore be looking for a response when Dover visit Cherrywood Road.

Last Time

Last time the sides met, in April 2026, Farnborough came from behind to claim a 3-1 victory at the Crabble Athletic Ground. Dover made a strong start and were ahead inside five minutes. Wilkinson’s deep corner caused problems, Jones headed the ball back across goal and Harry Beadle reacted quickest to hook home from close range. The Whites continued to threaten, with Nikaj twice going close and Wilkinson firing narrowly over, but Farnborough gradually grew into the contest. Sandah struck the post before Walker produced two good saves to deny Bingham and Bloomfield. The visitors levelled in the 44th minute when Robinson headed home from a Sandah cross, before completing the turnaround in first-half stoppage time. Bloomfield failed to make contact with a ball into the area, but Bingham was on hand to finish and send Farnborough into the break 2-1 ahead. The second half was more scrappy, with chances at a premium. Bingham fired narrowly wide and Fonguck hit the post before Farnborough sealed the result with ten minutes remaining. Stickland was judged to have been fouled in the area, allowing Bloomfield to convert from the penalty spot and secure a 3-1 win.

The Venue

Cherrywood Road
Farnborough
Hampshire
GU14 8UD

Admission  

Adult: £17
Concession: £13
14–17-year-old: £6
Under 14: Free – must be accompanied by a paying adult
Family Ticket: £27 – 2 Adults and 2 Children under 14

Tickets: https://app.fanbaseclub.com/fixture/farnboroughfc-co-uk/21353

Dover Athletic are back on the road on Tuesday evening as the Whites travel to Victoria Road to take on Dagenham & Redbridge in National League South. Jake Leberl’s side will be looking to respond following Saturday’s 3-0 home defeat to Maidenhead United, while the Daggers have made an impressive start to the campaign and sit second in the table after seven matches. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of Tuesday night’s fixture.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic fell to a 3-0 defeat against Maidenhead United at the Megger Community Stadium, with the Whites playing much of the second half with ten men. The visitors started brightly and went close on 15 minutes when N’Guessan volleyed over from Coley’s corner. Dover gradually settled into the contest, but Maidenhead opened the scoring on 28 minutes as Clerima rose highest at the far post to head home from a corner. The Whites responded well and went close before the break when Williams’ deep cross was turned back across goal by Beadle, only for Sheriff to be denied by the visiting defence. Dover began the second half positively, but their task became harder on 54 minutes when Charles-Cook received a second yellow card for bringing down Coley on the counter. Williams fired over from distance before Maidenhead doubled their advantage on 64 minutes, Hall applying a faint touch to a ball across goal to guide it into the corner. Dover almost responded six minutes later when Williams headed against the crossbar, but Maidenhead added a third in stoppage time as Coley raced through and finished into the far corner.

From the Management

“We know it’s going to be a really difficult game. They’re a really difficult side to get at and we saw that last year when we went there and put in a really disappointing performance. We’re going to need to be a hell of a lot better than we were there last year, and a hell of a lot better than we were today, if we’re going to get anything out of it.”

Dagenham & Redbridge

Dagenham & Redbridge were held to a 1-1 draw away at Horsham after recovering from an early setback. The hosts took the lead after 10 minutes when a low cross found Reece Meekums, who finished neatly into the bottom corner. The Daggers responded well, with Andy Carroll heading just over before Dieng missed a good opportunity from the edge of the box. Their pressure eventually paid off on the half-hour mark. Charles Clayden’s cross caused confusion in the Horsham defence, with Sparks turning the ball into his own net to level the scores before the interval. The second half remained tight, although Dagenham created the better openings. Carroll fired wide after meeting a crossfield pass, before Clayden struck the side netting with ten minutes remaining. The best chance to win the game then fell to Carroll. The striker latched onto a long ball and rounded the goalkeeper, but was unable to convert into the empty net. Horsham manager Dom Di Paola was sent off late on for delaying a restart, but there was no further breakthrough as the points were shared.

Dagenham & Redbridge have made an impressive start to the new National League South campaign, sitting second after seven matches with five wins, one draw and just one defeat. Their 16-point return has underlined the early optimism surrounding a club determined to respond after a disappointing 13th-place finish last season. The summer brought significant change at Victoria Road, with Lee Allinson overseeing a major rebuild and bringing in a younger, more energetic squad. Nathan Ashmore added experience in goal, while the likes of Liam Vincent, Harry Beautyman, Charles Clayden and Antony Papadopoulos have strengthened a side expected to challenge near the top. Allinson’s team have so far combined a strong defensive record with enough attacking quality to grind out results, conceding only five times in their opening seven fixtures. Their latest outing ended in a 1-1 draw at Horsham, where they recovered from an early setback through an own goal forced by Clayden’s delivery. After several seasons of underachievement, expectations are understandably high. The Daggers were widely tipped to be among the promotion contenders before a ball was kicked, and their early form suggests those predictions were well founded. Dover therefore face one of the division’s strongest early-season performers on Tuesday night.

Last Time

Last time the sides met, Dover Athletic were beaten 2-0 by Dagenham & Redbridge at the Chigwell Construction Stadium, with two second-half goals settling a competitive contest. There was little between the sides during the opening 45 minutes. Dagenham went close when Haigh cut inside and struck the crossbar, while Walker was also called into action to deny Stephenson. Dover created chances of their own, with Nikaj trying his luck from distance before Sheriff saw a powerful header tipped over. Nikaj then came close to breaking the deadlock when he met a cross unmarked inside the area, only for Howes to produce an acrobatic save. The hosts applied more pressure after the break and took the lead shortly after the hour. Young delivered a pinpoint cross from the flank, allowing Stephenson to rise and power a header beyond Walker. Dover made changes in search of a response, but Dagenham continued to threaten. Walker produced an excellent save to deny Haigh from a free kick, while Beadle made a crucial block on the line. The hosts sealed the points six minutes from time when Leech pulled the ball back for Harrack to sweep a first-time finish into the top corner.

The Venue

Victoria Road Stadium
Victoria Road, Dagenham
RM10 7XL

Admission  

Adults: £20
Concessions: £15
15–21: £12
10–14: £8
U10: £1

Tickets: https://www.tixr.com/groups/daggers/events/daggers-v-dover-athletic-203429?sort=RECOMMENDED&COL=15788&A=L

Dover Athletic make the Bank Holiday Monday trip to The Meadow to take on Chesham United in National League South action. The Whites head into the fixture following Saturday’s 3-3 draw with Braintree Town at the Megger Community Stadium, while Chesham arrive in improved form after back-to-back victories, including an emphatic 4-0 win away at AFC Totton. With both sides looking to build momentum during the busy Bank Holiday schedule, another competitive encounter is in prospect in Buckinghamshire.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic were forced to settle for a point after surrendering a two-goal lead in a 3-3 draw with Braintree Town at the Megger Community Stadium. On an afternoon that marked Mitch Walker’s 350th appearance for the club, Dover took the lead after 26 minutes when a Beadle long throw caused confusion inside the Braintree area and Sheriff reacted quickest to finish. Braintree levelled shortly before half-time after former Dover man Alfie Matthews was brought down in the box before converting the resulting penalty. Dover responded immediately, though, with Sheriff striking again deep into first-half stoppage time to restore the advantage. The Whites extended their lead five minutes after the restart. Braintree were caught in possession and Sheriff released Luke Baptiste, who finished to make it 3-1. The visitors hit the post through Elliot Thorpe before eventually pulling one back in the 77th minute, when Michael Olarewaju’s effort took a heavy deflection beyond Walker. Dover were pushed deeper in the closing stages, with Walker making an important diving save to deny Afi Adebayo. Braintree completed the comeback in the 89th minute when Louie Johnson capitalised on a scramble inside the area to squeeze home the equaliser and secure a 3-3 draw.

From the Management

“I think they’re a really good side. I thought they were a good side last year when we beat them. Very dangerous and to go to Totton and win 4-0 is a hell of a result. They’ll be full of confidence. We need to dust ourselves down and put in a performance there Monday.”

Chesham United

Chesham United head into Monday’s meeting in improved form after recording a convincing 4-0 victory away at AFC Totton on Saturday. A dominant first-half display put the Generals firmly in control in Hampshire as they went on to secure all three points and a second successive victory. The result followed a 2-0 home win over Walton & Hersham, ending a difficult opening run which had seen Chesham lose their first three league matches against Weston-super-Mare, Braintree Town and Farnborough. Those back-to-back victories have lifted Chesham to 13th place, with six points from their opening five matches. They have won two and lost three so far, scoring six goals, and will return to The Meadow with renewed confidence as Dover visit on Bank Holiday Monday.

Dover travel to The Meadow to face a Chesham United side looking to build on another solid National League South campaign after finishing 11th last season. Joint managers James Duncan and Michael Murray have overseen a period of sustained progress, guiding the Generals to the Southern Premier title in 2023/24 before establishing the club comfortably at Step Two. Continuity has again been a feature of their summer, with the majority of last season’s squad retained. Goalkeeper Ben Goode remains an important figure behind an experienced defensive unit featuring captain Callum Adebiyi, Alfie Young and Connor Stevens, while Giorgio Rasulo provides creativity in midfield. Jayden Bennetts, who shared last season’s top-scorer honours with Mitchell Weiss on ten goals, is another key attacking threat. There have been several additions, including Craig Fasanmade from Hampton & Richmond and striker Hisham Kasimu from Gosport Borough, while Harry Hoath, Joseph Adewunmi and Lordon Akolbire have also joined. Josh Addae and Zak Joseph are among those to have moved on. Chesham have developed a reputation as an organised and hard-working side under Duncan and Murray, with their experience and largely settled squad providing a strong foundation for another competitive campaign.

Last Time

Last time the sides met, Dover Athletic signed off the 2025/26 National League South season with a 2-2 draw against Chesham United at the Megger Community Stadium. The Whites made a bright start and opened the scoring after 13 minutes when George Nikaj reacted quickest to a defensive mistake, firing first time into an empty net. Chesham gradually grew into the contest and levelled in first-half stoppage time. Freddie Yearn found Alex Babos with a clever pass and the midfielder finished neatly into the corner to send the sides in level at the break. The visitors then went ahead five minutes after the restart following confusion in the Dover defence. A loose ball dropped to Yearn, who calmly lifted his effort into the vacant net to make it 2-1. Dover responded with several second-half changes, including a senior debut for academy player Ezenwanne, before finding an equaliser with ten minutes remaining. Nikaj collected possession around 30 yards from goal and produced a superb left-footed strike into the top corner for his second of the afternoon. He went close to completing his hat-trick late on, while Gillmore made an important stoppage-time save at the other end to ensure the points were shared on the final day.

The Venue

The Meadow Amy Lane Chesham Buckinghamshire HP5 1NE

https://cheshamunited.co.uk/matchday/travel-directions/

Admission  

Adult – £16.00
Over 65s – £13.00
Students – £13.00 (Valid student ID required)
Next Gen – £11.00 (18–23 year olds)
Under 18s – £6.00
Under 14s – £1.00 (Must be accompanied by an adult)

https://app.fanbaseclub.com/Fan/Tickets/ChooseQuantity?ticketId=9591&fixtureId=21669

Dover Athletic return to Crabble on Saturday looking to build on the weekend’s dramatic 3-2 victory at Weston-super-Mare when Braintree Town make the trip to Kent. The Whites sit 10th in the National League South table with six points from their opening four matches, having recorded two wins and two defeats. Corie Andrews’ stunning late winner in Somerset ensured Jake Leberl’s side returned home with all three points and will be looking to make it back-to-back victories. Braintree arrive at Crabble sitting 20th with three points from their opening three games following one win and two defeats. The Iron were beaten 2-1 at home by Horsham last time out, Vladimir Paternoster’s late strike proving only a consolation after Greg Luer had scored twice for the visitors.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic produced a dramatic late comeback to beat Weston-super-Mare 3-2, with debutant Andrews scoring a stunning 90th-minute winner. The Whites started brightly, with Bakrin going close from an early corner before Onu raced clear and forced Harris into a strong save. Dover’s pressure was rewarded on 29 minutes when Sheriff was brought down by the goalkeeper, and the striker calmly converted the resulting penalty. Weston responded five minutes later as Britton met a pull-back from the byline and finished first-time past Walker to make it 1-1 at the break. The hosts took the lead ten minutes into the second half when Cane’s cut-back found Britton, who fired into the roof of the net for his second. Dover pushed hard for a response and drew level in spectacular fashion on 76 minutes. Harris’ clearance fell to Williams around 35 yards out, and the substitute sent the ball looping into the unguarded net. Sheriff then went close to a winner before Andrews provided the decisive moment. The debutant found space outside the area and unleashed a superb 25-yard strike into the top corner to seal all three points at the death.

From the Management

“Let’s not get carried away. Every game is difficult and everyone’s going to beat everyone. We’ve had a tough time and Tonbridge was really disappointing. You can blame the referee, but ultimately we still felt we should have got something out of the game. We’re not in a bad place and I do feel we’re going to get stronger. We’ve just got to try and keep these boys fit. I’d like to thank the board for helping us out with the injuries and we’ve managed to get a few players in. Obviously Corie’s come in, as has Jack Bates, and that’s going to make a difference because, as today proved, you need strength in depth off the bench.”

Braintree Town

Braintree Town suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Horsham on Saturday, with Vladimir Paternoster’s late goal proving only a consolation at Cressing Road. The Iron went into the game having endured a difficult build-up to the season, with a transfer embargo only lifted three days before the opening weekend and injuries leaving them able to name just four substitutes. On a difficult surface, Braintree threatened mainly from set-pieces in the first half but struggled to create clear chances. Horsham took the lead on 30 minutes when Greg Luer combined with Jamie Yila before finishing low into the far corner, and the visitors went close to extending their advantage before the break. Braintree improved after half-time and Louie Johnson volleyed over from close range, while Sam Howes was called upon to keep out a fierce Alfie Lewis effort. However, Horsham doubled their lead on 71 minutes when substitute Reece Meekums broke down the left and squared for Luer to score his second. The Iron gave themselves hope five minutes from time when Fletcher Hubbard’s cross reached the unmarked Paternoster, who finished from inside the area. Braintree applied late pressure but could not find an equaliser, leaving Horsham with all three points.

Braintree Town return to National League South action this season following relegation from the National League, where they finished 23rd last term. It has been a summer of significant change at Cressing Road. Financial difficulties resulted in a transfer embargo, while much of last season’s squad departed, leaving manager Steve Pitt with another sizeable rebuilding job. Pitt remains in charge having initially joined Braintree as assistant manager before taking the top job during the 2024/25 campaign. Among the new arrivals are two familiar faces to Dover supporters, with former Whites Jacob Mensah and Alfie Matthews making the move to Essex. Braintree have also recruited extensively from the divisions below. Louie Johnson arrives after an impressive campaign with Brentwood Town, while Anisius Lewis scored 16 times for Maldon & Tiptree last season. Courtney Senior provides additional experience in attack, with Alfie Lewis and Portsmouth youngster Reuben Swann strengthening the midfield. With a largely new-look squad, the early stages of the campaign are likely to be about building understanding and consistency. The Iron nevertheless possess a mixture of experienced Step Two players and ambitious younger additions as they look to establish themselves following relegation.

Last Time

The last time the sides met was in February 2024, when Dover Athletic suffered a 3-0 defeat away at Braintree Town. The hosts made a flying start in Essex and took the lead inside the opening few minutes when a long-range effort took a heavy deflection, wrong-footing Jinadu before finding the bottom corner. Braintree continued to apply pressure and doubled their advantage from a set-piece, with a free-kick delivered towards the back post and headed home. Their third followed soon afterwards as a simple ball in behind the Dover defence released an attacker, who rounded Jinadu and finished into an empty net. Dover did threaten occasionally during the opening half. Baptiste caused problems down the left and created an opening which eventually fell to Naylor, although his effort was comfortably held by Sims. The Whites introduced Oladipo at the interval and produced a more competitive second-half display. A dangerous ball across the penalty area almost reached substitute Dembele, while Jinadu prevented Braintree from adding a fourth when he denied an attacker attempting to round him. There was little further action during the closing stages, with the hosts seeing out the contest comfortably to secure a 3-0 victory.

The Venue

We look forward to welcoming Braintree 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: £18
Concessions: £17
U18: £10
U11: FREE with a paying adult

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

Dover Athletic return to the road on Saturday as they make the trip to Somerset to face Weston-super-Mare in National League South. The Whites head west looking to respond after Tuesday night’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Tonbridge Angels, a game in which Dover played the entire second half with ten men but still produced a spirited performance and pushed strongly for an equaliser. Weston have made a strong start to the campaign and currently sit second in the table with seven points from their opening three matches, having recorded two wins and a draw. The Seagulls come into the fixture following a goalless draw away at Torquay United in midweek. With Weston unbeaten so far and the Whites looking to bounce back from their midweek defeat, another competitive encounter is expected at the Optima Stadium.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Tonbridge Angels at the Megger Stadium after playing the entire second half with ten men. The visitors enjoyed the better of the opening exchanges, although Dover grew into the contest and went close on the half-hour when Bates crossed for Sheriff, whose header beat Harness but struck Baptiste on its way through. Fish was forced off shortly before the interval, with Onu replacing him, before the game’s major turning point arrived in stoppage time. Bakrin was shown a second yellow card following a tussle in the box, leaving Dover a man down. Tonbridge took advantage seven minutes after the restart when Tanga capitalised on a mistake and fired into the corner. Despite the setback, Dover responded strongly and enjoyed their best spell of the game. Bates caused problems from set pieces, while Oyenuga drove into the area and forced Harness into a save at his near post as the Whites applied sustained pressure. Tonbridge threatened only sporadically thereafter, with Walker denying Gardner from distance, but Dover were unable to find an equaliser. A spirited second-half display ultimately went unrewarded as Tonbridge held on for all three points.

From the Management

“Games come thick and fast, and obviously we’ve got a difficult one down at Weston next. After the performance there last season, we’ll go there with some confidence. We’ll travel down on the Friday. The chairman has put on a hotel, so we’ll do things properly. We’ll have a little recovery session on the Thursday and we’ve got to stick together, pick ourselves up and have a right go.”

Weston-super-Mare

Weston-super-Mare earned a hard-fought point at Plainmoor on Tuesday night, holding Torquay United to a goalless draw despite spending long periods under pressure. The hosts started strongly and forced Max Harris into an early save, with the Weston goalkeeper producing a fine parry to deny Deon Moore from the edge of the box. Harris was called upon again midway through the first half when Isaac Westendorf worked his way into the area and got a shot away, but Weston survived and reached the interval level. Torquay continued to dominate possession and territory after the break, although Weston’s defence stood firm and repeatedly blocked efforts before they could trouble Harris. The visitors offered little going forward for much of the contest, but remained organised and resilient as United pushed for a winner. Torquay came closest in stoppage time when a late effort was cleared off the line, before Weston nearly snatched all three points at the other end. Louis Britton fired a low drive from the edge of the area, forcing Toby Savin into a smart late save. Weston ultimately left Devon with a valuable point following a determined defensive display.

Weston-super-Mare enjoyed a landmark 2025/26 campaign, finishing sixth in National League South to secure the club’s highest-ever league position and a first play-off appearance at this level. Their run eventually ended in the semi-finals against eventual winners Hornchurch. Scott Rogers remains in charge after stepping up from his assistant manager role during last season, with the Seagulls retaining much of the experienced core that helped deliver their play-off finish. Louis Britton, who scored 19 league goals last term, continues to provide the main attacking threat, while Luke Coulson and Will Dawes offer further experience in the final third. There have also been several notable additions over the summer, including experienced midfielder Liam Sercombe from Forest Green Rovers, Brad Ash from Bath City and Ollie Hulbert from Barry Town. Will Jenkins-Davies has also arrived from Bath, while defender Archie Taylor has joined from Bristol City. Weston have, however, suffered an early blow with centre-back Emlyn Lewis sustaining a serious knee injury during pre-season. Captain Sam Avery remains an important figure at the back, with Max Harris continuing in goal after playing every league minute last season.

Last Time

Last time Dover Athletic faced Weston-super-Mare at Crabble, the two sides shared the points in a 1-1 draw in National League South. Weston started brightly, with Dawes and Dewsbury both threatening during the opening exchanges, but it was Dover who struck first after 16 minutes. A long throw from Beadle caused problems inside the Weston area and Mensah reacted quickest to guide the loose ball beyond Harris. The lead lasted only four minutes. Weston were awarded a penalty after Dawes went down under a challenge from Gurung, allowing Coulson to send Walker the wrong way and restore parity. Dover grew into the contest and remained dangerous on the counter, while Walker was required to deal with several Weston efforts before the break. The Whites started the second half positively and Sheriff struck the post after being picked out by Nikaj, although the offside flag had already been raised. Weston applied increasing pressure as the game progressed, but Dover defended resolutely. Walker produced an excellent late save before the visitors had a stoppage-time effort ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper. Dover survived the late pressure to secure a hard-earned point.

The Venue

The Optima Stadium Winterstoke Road Weston-super-Mare Somerset BS24 9AA 

Admission  

Adult – £16.00
Concession – £12.00 (Senior 60+, Student ID, Armed Forces ID, NHS ID)
14–17 Year Olds – £6.50
8–13 Year Olds – £4.50 (Must be accompanied by an adult)
Under 8s – Free (Must be accompanied by an adult)

https://app.fanbaseclub.com/Fan/Tickets/ChooseQuantity?ticketId=25041&fixtureId=20158

Dover Athletic return to the Megger Community Stadium on Tuesday night for a Kent derby under the lights against Tonbridge Angels. The Whites head into the fixture buoyed by Saturday’s thrilling 5-3 victory over Slough Town, while Tonbridge make the trip to Crabble looking to respond after a narrow 2-1 home defeat to Torquay United. With both sides already showing plenty of attacking intent in the opening weeks of the season, another competitive National League South encounter awaits as two familiar Kent rivals go head-to-head.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic secured their first three points of the season with a dramatic 5-3 victory over Slough Town at the Megger Community Stadium. Despite losing Rendall to injury inside nine minutes, Dover took control through Fish, whose looping effort opened the scoring after 16 minutes. Sheriff doubled the advantage four minutes later before adding his second in first-half stoppage time, converting Bates’ low delivery to send the Whites into the break 3-0 ahead. Slough responded emphatically after the restart. Goddard converted a penalty before Holness struck twice in six minutes to complete a remarkable comeback and level the contest at 3-3. Dover recovered well from the setback and restored their lead in the 78th minute. Charles-Cook delivered into the area and Bates was left free at the back post to head home. With Slough pushing for another equaliser, substitute Onu finally made the points safe in added time. He reacted quickest to a ball over the top, rounded McNamara and finished into the empty net. After a dominant first half, a dramatic Slough fightback and an impressive response, Dover held on to claim a memorable 5-3 victory in front of 711 supporters.

From the Management

“Tonbridge have recruited really well in the summer, taking the Maidstone captain and a few of the other experienced boys, so they’re obviously going for it. You’d like to think they’re going to be right up there as favourites, so it’s never going to be an easy game. They’ll be looking to bounce back and they’ll be fired up. I thought we did really well against them here last year, although we were very disappointed at their place.”

Tonbridge Angels

On Saturday, Tonbridge Angels were denied a deserved point as Torquay United claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory at Longmead. The visitors took the lead after 16 minutes when Kian Jenkins’ corner evaded everyone and found the net. Tonbridge responded well, with Bailey Akehurst striking the crossbar early in the second half after goalkeeper Nathan Harness had produced an excellent save to deny Callum Morton. Angels drew level shortly after the hour. Akehurst played a short corner to Kai Martin, whose cross was headed home by Ethan Sutcliffe. Alan Dunne’s side then pushed for a winner and had a strong penalty appeal waved away before Beeden headed narrowly wide. However, Torquay struck on the break. Deon Moore released substitute Robertson, whose cut-back was converted by Matt Jay from close range. Tonbridge’s task became harder when Jephte Tanga was shown a second yellow card, but they continued to threaten. Harness raced back to make an outstanding save after joining a late corner, before Torquay goalkeeper Toby Savin produced an exceptional stoppage-time stop to claw away Alfie Pavey’s looping header. Dunne praised his side afterwards for going “toe-to-toe” with one of the division’s strongest teams.

Tonbridge Angels begin 2026/27 looking to build on a 14th-place finish in National League South last season. Alan Dunne’s arrival in September helped steady a difficult start, with the former Bromley assistant overseeing a recovery that carried the club comfortably clear of danger. There has been considerable change during the summer. Goalkeeper Nathan Harness has arrived from Maidstone United, while Ethan Sutcliffe has returned permanently from AFC Wimbledon following several loan spells with the Angels. Defenders Harvey Lintott and Lexus Beeden strengthen the back line, with Harry Gardner and former Maidstone captain Sam Corne adding options in midfield. Further forward, Jephte Tanga and Lamar Reynolds provide additional attacking threat, while Frankie Baker has returned after spending part of last season on loan at Longmead. Bunmi Babajide remains among the established attacking options. Several members of last season’s squad have moved on, including leading scorer Tom Leahy, Marcus Sablier, Martell Taylor-Crossdale, Scott Wagstaff and Nazir Bakrin. Dunne therefore starts his first full season in charge with a reshaped group containing retained players, experienced arrivals and younger additions. The Angels opened their league campaign with a 4–0 victory away at Braintree Town

Last Time

The most recent meeting between Dover Athletic and Tonbridge Angels came at Crabble on 10 March 2026, when two goals from George Wilkinson earned Dover a 2–0 National League South victory. The opening stages were evenly contested, with clear chances at a premium. Tonbridge threatened on the counter through Ricky Korboa, Frankie Baker and Bunmi Babajide, before Alfie Pavey fired over. Dover created the breakthrough after 21 minutes when a passing move through midfield released Wilkinson, who finished calmly beyond goalkeeper Ted Rowley. Tonbridge enjoyed periods of possession before the interval and Baker was lively in attacking areas, but Dover remained ahead at half-time. The visitors then threatened early in the second period when Bailey Akehurst found Pavey at the back post, only for his effort to be blocked. Dover doubled their advantage in the 53rd minute. A Harry Beadle delivery was cleared by the Angels defence, but the loose ball fell to Wilkinson around 30 yards from goal. The midfielder struck first time and found the top corner for his second of the evening. Tonbridge continued to look for a route back into the contest, with Akehurst forcing Mitch Walker into a save from a tight angle. At the other end, Dover nearly added a third when Rowley gathered a low cross ahead of Luke Baptiste. The closing stages saw Tonbridge retain possession without creating a decisive opening, while Dover made several changes and managed the final minutes effectively to complete a 2–0 win in the Kent derby.

The Venue

We look forward to welcoming Tonbridge Angels 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: £18
Concessions: £17
U18: £10
U11: FREE with a paying adult

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

The wait is finally over as Dover Athletic begin their 2026/27 National League South campaign with a trip to Billericay Town. After a summer of preparation and eight pre-season fixtures, the focus now turns to competitive action as Jake Leberl’s side look to make a positive start on the road. The Whites head to New Lodge with a refreshed squad, several new arrivals and plenty of optimism ahead of another demanding season at Step Two. Billericay will provide a stern opening test, but Dover will be aiming to lay down an early marker and begin the new campaign with a strong performance in Essex.

Dover Athletic

In their final pre-season outing, Dover Athletic were held to a 1–1 draw by Carshalton Athletic at the Megger Community Stadium. The Whites created several early openings, with Decarrey Sheriff twice released in behind and Rolando Onu denied by a smart save shortly before half-time. However, it was Carshalton who opened the scoring after 26 minutes with their first meaningful attack. Dover continued to push after the break and found an equaliser in the 71st minute through Trent Rendall, whose attempted cross drifted over the goalkeeper and into the top corner. Onu then went close to completing the turnaround but dragged his effort wide as the contest ended level.

Billericay Town

Billericay Town return to National League South this season after securing promotion through the Isthmian Premier Division play-offs, defeating Brentwood Town after extra time in the final. The Essex club are managed by Danny Scopes, who previously enjoyed an impressive spell with Aveley. Scopes guided Aveley to promotion before leading them to the National League South play-offs during their first season at Step Two, establishing a reputation as a highly regarded manager at this level.

Billericay’s squad contains plenty of National League South experience. Charlie Ruff adds quality and creativity, while defender Louis Lomas arrived after featuring in a strong Hemel Hempstead Town back line during the latter stages of last season. Former Charlton Athletic and Leyton Orient striker Macauley Bonne brings considerable Football League and non-league pedigree to the attack. He is joined by further attacking midfield options including Elliot Long and Frankie Merrifield, giving the Blues a number of potential threats in the final third.

Billericay experienced a mixed start to their pre-season schedule, opening with a 2–1 defeat against Cambridge City before losing 1–0 away at Canvey Island. The Blues responded strongly with consecutive 3–0 victories over Dartford and Royston Town, keeping clean sheets in both matches. Their preparations concluded with a goalless draw against Welling United, meaning Billericay ended pre-season unbeaten in their final three fixtures.

Last Time

Dover’s last visit to New Lodge produced one of the defining moments of their promotion-winning campaign, as the Whites secured a dramatic 2–1 extra-time victory in the Isthmian Premier Division play-off semi-final. The sides could not be separated during 90 tense minutes, with both creating chances and Dover seeing a goalmouth effort ruled not to have crossed the line. Billericay then moved ahead in extra time when Femi Akinwande’s shot struck the post, rebounded off Mitch Walker and crossed the line. Dover responded almost immediately through Alfie Matthews, who curled a superb free-kick into the top corner. With penalties looming, Matthews struck again from another set-piece, finding the net late in extra time to send the Whites through to the play-off final.

The Venue

Billericay Town Football Club, New Lodge, Blunts Wall Road, Billericay, Essex, CM12 9SA.

More information: https://www.billericaytownfc.co.uk/visitors/

Admission  

Adult £15.00
Concession £10.00
Young Adult (14-17) £7.00
Under 14 £3.00

Online tickets: https://billericaytownfc.ktckts.com/event/202627md1/billericay-town-fc-v-dover-athletic-fc