Category: Match Preview

BATH BORES BRUNDLE AS NELSON LEAPS TO THE GAFFERS DEFENCE

Dover Athletic 0 Bath City 0

It was another point on the board and another clean sheet this week as the Whites again failed to find the net for the second time in a month. Bath City were a very organised team but were clearly there for the taking with Mitch Brundle’s team riding high following Tuesday nights victory over Havant.

Boss Brundle had told the players that he was ‘bored’, during his half-time team talk. Speaking to Kent Online Sport post match, Brundle said ‘I think we had the better of the chances. But it wasn’t a game for the neutral! I said to them at half-time that it’s the most bored I’ve been, stood on the side line as a manager. That didn’t excite me one bit but it’s six unbeaten. It’s still positive, don’t get me wrong, and it shows where we have come to that we are disappointed to draw 0-0 with Bath and earn our fourth clean sheet in a row. It was just one of those days. I’ve just looked at the results and a lot of teams drew today. We weren’t at the races. It’s the worst we’ve performed. I could be critical with aspects of certain bits but the keeper has tipped one onto the bar and we’ve had chances in the first half, and Noah Carney should score. But to be fair, it didn’t look like we were ever going to score. But they didn’t look like ever scoring, either.”

It’s another clean sheet which is now four on the spin for the club and credit is due to both the backline and the goalkeeper. ‘Four clean sheets, as well, and it’s four years since the club last did that. ‘That’s where we’ve come as a club,’ noted Brundle. ‘That’s where we have changed now. I’d have snapped your hand off for that when I first got the job. But I will always try and be better and, to be fair, that’s why I’m so – I wouldn’t say disappointed – more frustrated. We created enough chances to score and win the game. It is what it is. I’ve not really got the words to try and describe how I’m feeling. I could just be critical, and I’m allowed to be, but we’d have snapped peoples’ hands off a few weeks ago to be six unbeaten and we are now. We’re going in the right direction and I think it’s a positive the fact that I can stand here as the manager and be frustrated that we haven’t won the game, and we’ve drawn against a good team.

There was a minute’s applause before kick-off in tribute to long-serving Dover fan Bob Hill, who recently died. Brundle himself acknowledged that fact and was quick to ensure that the family were given the clubs condolences. ‘I’d just like to send my condolences to Bob Hill’s family,’ said Brundle. It’s sad that he’s lost his life and we respected him today with a round of applause. As you could see, it meant a lot to a lot of people here. He’s been a fan for plenty of years. We just wish their whole family well and hope they’re all doing okay, and that’s from everyone – from top to bottom – at this football club.’

Stuart Nelson, part of the reason the Whites haven’t conceded in the last four matches, was keen to point out to Kent Online Sport that it was a team effort. ‘It’s Dover’s clean sheet,’ said Nelson. ‘Obviously, I’m in goal so clean sheets mean as much to me as goals mean to strikers, so I’ll take every single one of them. That’s 11 for me for the season so I’m happy with it from a personal perspective. But ultimately, I can’t do it without the 10 other players who are on the pitch with me at that time. In the last four and quite a bit games since conceding the boys have been excellent on the defensive side of things.’

Our number one came to the defence of his manger who’s age had been raised in the discussion. ‘The age thing – that’s your issue, not mine for starters. Everyone wants to say about age but age doesn’t mean anything to me. It’s a number. We’re keeping clean sheets and that’s down to how he’s setting us up. I don’t care whether he’s 12 or 102, it doesn’t mean anything to me. Age is really irrelevant and it does bug me, which is why I’ve reacted like this. I think Mitch has come in and done a really fantastic job, and the results have shown that. ‘Soon, someone is going to get thumped. That’s the bottom line. If we keep defending the way we’re doing it, then someone is going to come on a good run of goals from us.’

The Whites face Cheshunt tomorrow evening who are on a decent run of form themselves with only two defeats coming in their last nine matches. Dover will be looking to avenge the 2-0 defeat back in December but there is a completely different dynamic to the squad now compared to a couple of months ago.

We hope to see you all there. We understand that there has been a run of home games lately but we completely appreciate your continued support.

COYW

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets for this game can be purchased at the turnstile only.

Prices are as follows:

Adults – £16

Over 60 – £14

Under 18 – £8

Under 11s continue to be free with paying adult

UP NEXT – BATH CITY

The Whites host Bath City looking to extend their unbeaten run.

Bath City visit Crabble in what should be a cracking tie with both teams now looking upwards in the league rather than down. Dover will be looking to complete a league double over Bath after a solitary goal from Luke Wanadio back in October ensured that the Whites headed back to White Cliff Country with all three points.

Mitch Brundle could have a selection headache with injuries beginning to build up after both George Nikaj and Freddie Oliver were unable to complete the 90 minutes against Havant on Tuesday. Lee Martin should recover from illness and George Wilkinson is touch and go after completing his recovery from his injury. Jordan Higgs will be assessed following his hamstring strain but David Boateng looks set to complete another week on the sidelines after his recent injury.

The Gaffer will have to have a shuffle about and bandage up his band of warriors but with the show or determination and desire that the team have showed in recent games should be enough to see the boys through. The lads will need your support more than ever as they look to play three games in seven days, including a gruelling away trip to Taunton.

Even though there were only 422 through the gate on Tuesday night, you guys made some noise and the players appreciated it. We are all in this together now.

COYW.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets for this game can be purchased at the turnstile only.

Prices are as follows:

Adults – £16

Over 60 – £14

Under 18 – £8

Under 11s continue to be free with paying adult

A JOB WELL DONE – FROM TAUNTON TO HAVANT

The Whites returned back to White Cliffs country with the points but attention already turns to Havant. 

It was a hard fought victory on Saturday with the only goal coming from a neat Jordan Higgs finish, following some good build-up play by both Brandon Pierrick and George Nikaj. The gaffer was delighted with the win and getting back on the bus with three points after travelling all morning was well worth the journey.

‘It was fantastic,’ said Brundle. ‘From start to finish, we could of won by more but thats been our downfall all season. I couldn’t of asked for more. It was a perfect performance, coming away from home, 1-0 win, long journey. I’m delighted for the boys who put the hard work in. The players were dead on their feet after the game with the effort that they put in. They worked so hard. It’s 8 points from 12 now which puts us in good stead and now we focus on the next game.

Two clean sheets in a row, the back for and goalkeeper have been fantastic. They defended like proper men today. Taunton put some great deliveries into our box but again Jake Goodman, who only missed one header all day, was superb. We played against a team who have the second best defensive record in the league so to get two clean sheets in a row shows how far we have come in a short space of time.

We move on to the next game now on Tuesday and we take a lot of confidence from the performance. Freddie Oliver has come in on his debut and was outstanding. It couldn’t have gone any better for him and now the task for him is to keep that level of performance. We know he wont be able to play like that every week as he’s only young but he read the game so well on Saturday and he’s given himself a chance and put himself in our plans for the remainder of the season.

There is a real togetherness in the squad at the moment but its not just the players, it’s the backroom staff as well. There is a little buzz about the place and we are delighted with the recent attitude of everyone.

Just want to say thank you to all the traveling fans on Saturday. Unbelievable commitment to travel and support us in number and it certainly got us over the line, helping us get 3 points. The players appreciate it so thank you.’

Debutant Freddie Oliver had brought plaudits from both the fans and his boss after a cracking performance in the heart of the Whites midfield. The youngster looked like he had over 100 appearances under his belt rather than just making his first.

‘First game today. I was a little nervous before it started but as the game went on I got into it and now I am buzzing after the game. Coming away from home, tough pitch and a long coach journey, it was always going to be a tough match but we got the three points which is the main thing. We done the business. Thank you to the supporters for their support Saturday. To hear the noise they were making throughout the game helped me and filled me with confidence.’

The Whites have a quick turnaround with Havant & Waterlooville heading back to Kent for our rearranged fixture tomorrow night.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets for this game can be purchased at the turnstile only.

Prices are as follows:

Adults – £16

Over 60 – £14

Under 18 – £8

Under 11s continue to be free with paying adult

 

UP NEXT – TAUNTON TOWN

Dover head west to Taunton.

The Whites face Taunton Town on Saturday looking to extend their unbeaten run. It will be a tricky away tie at the Cygnet Health Care Stadium with the Peacocks looking to avenge the 1-0 defeat at the turn of the year. Mitch Brundle was in the caretaker position for this win but will now want to take the points in his new role.

The manager has a selection dilemma ahead of the game with David Boateng limping off in the first half against Chelmsford City. The loanee from Crystal Palace will definitely miss the trip to Somerset but Myles Judd will return from his suspension. The travel has also played a part in the preparation for the team.

Speaking to Kent Sport Online Brundle said ‘We have got Myles Judd back. He didn’t want the break to come. It’s good we have a replacement to come straight back in, but it might not be like-for-like. I don’t know what team I’m picking yet. It’s a tough game, it’s a long journey, and they seem to do well at home. We just need to stick to our consistency levels. I’m looking forward to the game and I think the boys are as well. Hopefully, we can come out for the long journey home with a positive result.

Early team news for the Whites

David Boateng misses out with what looks like a groin injury as well as George Wilkinson who still has a slight issue with his knee. Will Moses is also closing in on a return to first team action.

‘Hopefully he can come back and get some consistency, said Brundle when quizzed about Wilkinson. ‘George hasn’t had that consistency this season. But he’s resilient enough and, once he’s back fit, we will try to get him some games and get that match sharpness back.’

We hope to see as many of you down there as possible to cheer on the boys. Please see the website for details regarding coach travel.

COYW!

The Cygnet Health Care Stadium, Wordsworth Drive, Taunton, Somerset TA1 2HG
Telephone: 01823 254909

Admission Prices 2022-23:

Payable by card or cash at the turnstile:

Adults (ages 18 to 67 incl.): £12

Concessions (State Pensioners & Students with ID): £10

Juniors (14-17 years): £5

Children aged 13 and under have free entry when accompanied by an adult. Unaccompanied Under 14’s will not be admitted.

Parking
There are two car parks at the Cygnet Health Care Stadium. The main is car park 2 at the front of the ground adjoining the road is for spectators while coaches for visiting teams should be parked at the far end of the car park after receiving guidance from a club steward.

The inner car park situated on the left of the stadium behind one goal (Car Park 1) is currently unavailable as a car park and is restricted for use by matchday refreshment providers or by any other parties subject to prior agreement by the club.

Disabled parking spaces are located immediately to the left of the main turnstile.

By Car
The Cygnet Health Care Stadium is easily accessible from all major routes into the town.

M5 – leave the motorway at Junction 25. Take the exit off roundabout signposted Taunton (A38). Go straight over first roundabout, keeping in left hand or middle lane. Continue along the Toneway and keep straight on at the four-way traffic light junction until reaching a roundabout where the left hand lane should be taken onto Chritchard Way. Stay left and take exit at traffic lights, then go straight ahead at traffic lights immediately after. Continue around the corner into Wordsworth Drive and the ground is on the left.

A303 – approach Taunton via A358 through Henlade. At M5 Junction 25 roundabout follow signs for Taunton as above.

A38 from West – approaching the town past the Stonegallows pub on the left, go straight over the first roundabout. Follow Wellington Road towards the town, past University Centre Somerset on the left. Carry straight on at traffic lights by Tesco and take right hand lane into Cann Street. Keep left and follow road into Upper High Street. Carry straight on until reaching traffic lights at Sainsburys. Keep in left hand lane through first set of traffic lights and then straight on at next set before going right at next set of lights onto East Reach. Keep straight on until reaching set of lights at bottom of East Reach where right hand lane should be taken into Wordsworth Drive and ground is on the left.

A38 from East – enter outskirts of town through Bathpool. At four way traffic light junction, take right turn onto Toneway signposted Taunton. Continue until reaching a roundabout where the left hand lane should be taken onto Chritchard Way. Stay left and take exit at traffic lights, then go straight ahead at traffic lights immediately after. Continue around the corner into Wordsworth Drive and the ground is on the left.

By Rail
The Cygnet Health Care Stadium is an approximate 25 minute walk from Taunton Railway Station. There are various routes available; turn left when leaving the station onto Trenchard Way and walk eastwards, going over bridge until reaching roundabout adjoining Priory Fields Retail Park. Cross over road into Priory Avenue and turn left. Route will take you onto footpath in Victoria Park. Exit onto Alfred Street which leads to East Reach. Cross road at traffic lights by Holcombes Car Mart and keep right into Wordsworth Drive. Ground is on the left. Should you wish to walk via the town centre, this is signposted from the railway station.

Alternatively taxis and buses are available. Bus No 1 runs to the Parade in the town centre and from there No 4 and No 51 drop off at Leycroft Road, a three minute walk from the ground.

UP NEXT – CHELMSFORD CITY

We look ahead to our next clash at home against Chelmsford City.

The visit of Chelmsford will pose a tough test for Mitch Brundle’s side with both teams sharing the spoils last time out. A 0-0 draw back in November couldn’t separate the two teams who have had a fairly even record over the last decade with two draws and both teams claiming a victory each.

It was a super performance by the Whites against Eastbourne Borough with the crowd playing their part in the win. Speaking to Kent Online Sport the manager said ‘We had 600-odd on Saturday. That can only go up – but it only goes up if you win games. I know that. The brand of football is exciting for people to watch so I urge more people to come. We can get better as a team. With all the chances we’re creating, the reason why they’re not going in is because we’re not at a better level yet. We’re creating chances, most games are won in midfield, and you let the star boys shine and stand out – like Josh did.

Josh Ajayi scored his maiden goal in a Dover shirt but it wasn’t for the want of trying in his previous few performances. ‘I’m delighted for him. He’s had a tough time in terms of playing time and that belief. But I’m giving him that belief – I believe in him. He’s a cracking player and he’s one I know that can step up and be unbelievable.’

The boss was also impressed with the returning George Nikaj. ‘I thought he was excellent,’ noted Brundle. ‘I said to him at half-time that you need to be more aerially dominant when you’re the No.9 in the team. He’s got to be more physical. This level is a step up so, for him to do it, his fitness levels need to go up. He’ll only get better. He’s had the chances with a couple of shots at goal and his work-rate was fantastic. I’ll never question anyone if they give me everything.

After the game, the whistle blows and he has his hands on his knees, so you know he’s given everything. I can’t ask for much more. Eventually, I can ask for more in terms of quality and finishing but, first game back, I’ve given him that belief and that trust, starting him as a No.9 for Dover. That’s what he wanted so he’s delighted. I’ll continue to work with him and he can only get better. Once he gets a goal under my realm, I think he’ll step up in confidence and feel like he’s right for the level.

Sometimes, it’s tough. When you go on loan, you don’t feel wanted. But that’s not the case with me. He had a loan in place – otherwise he’d have played a lot sooner than he has – but we honoured that loan and he wanted that loan, and it’s only done him good. He fits into the mould of what we want and we’re going to work with him so we can get another good centre-forward from our Academy. His style of play fits into what I’m trying to do as a manager and he’s bought right into it. He’s not thrown his toys out the pram, he’s not holding any grudges, and I personally get on really well with him.’

Luke Wanadio had been placed on the transfer list but in his last two appearances had shone brightly. ‘Maybe someone is looking over me and thanking me for not getting rid of him!’ quipped Brundle. ‘But we’re at the start of what we’re doing and we’ll take confidence from Saturday.”

Early team news for the Whites:

George Wilkinson missed the Saturday win over Boro through injury while defender Will Moses remains unavailable.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets for this game can be purchased at the turnstile only.

Prices are as follows:

Adults – £16

Over 60 – £14

Under 18 – £8

Under 11s continue to be free with paying adult

CHELMSFORD CITY – VIP STYLE

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

This Saturday we host Chelmsford in the Vanarama National South, looking to kick on from our great performance from last week. Mitch Brundle and the boys will be looking to put on another 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 team sheet

The very special experience costs £28 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 :

  • Leek and potato soup
  • Roast beef
  • Strawberry cheesecake and cream

Arrival at the ground should be at 1pm and food will be served at 1.30pm.

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 gavin.hughes@doverathletic.com or call the office on 01304 822373

UP NEXT – EASTBOURNE BOROUGH

Boro head to the Megger Community Stadium looking to do a league double over the Whites.

Mitch Brundle and his side will be looking to continue their good work after a draw on the road last time out against Slough Town. Eastbourne Borough will be no pushovers as the team from Priory Lane look to head back home with the three points following their win over the Whites back in September.

Dover have a good record on home soil, winning three and drawing three of the last six matches against Eastbourne. The bookies have made the visitors slight favourites but Brundle will relish the opportunity to upset the form book, a task made a little more difficult with his defensive options beginning to thin out. Myles Judd will now serve his suspension after breaching the ten booking fresh hold.

Speaking to Kent Online Sport, Brundle said ‘Juddy has been fantastic. He plays the game on the front foot and he’s aggressive. We will miss him but, obviously, that’s what the squad is for. We will see how the week goes in training. I have ideas already. I’m training all the time – that’s a thought if it comes down to it. But I believe in the group. If I don’t trust them, then there’s no real point bringing them in. I’ve told them that I believe in them and it’s up to them. We will look at what the best solution is.’

The gaffer was delighted with David Boateng’s first goal for the club and was also looking forward to the prospect of welcoming back George Nikaj from loan. ‘It’s the chance to play at a higher level which is what he needs. He has done really well at that level. There was a chance to extend it but we haven’t. He deserves a chance as he has been scoring. He will be playing a part in our team – it’s up to him to see whether he can do it at this level.’

When quizzed about any further signings the manager seemed to be in an optimistic mood. ‘We’re actively looking, it’s just about getting the right ones in,” the boss said. ‘We need to find someone who fits into the way we work. We’ve identified a few. It’s just about whether we can get it over the line.’

We hope to see you all at Crabble tomorrow.

COYW.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets for this game can be purchased at the turnstile only.

Prices are as follows:

Adults – £16

Over 60 – £14

Under 18 – £8

Under 11s continue to be free with paying adult

UP NEXT – SLOUGH TOWN

Dover head to Slough looking to bring back three valuable points on their travels.

Mitch Brundle and his side will be looking for a positive result on the road this Saturday as the Whites head to Slough to face Slough Town. The Rebels are only a couple of places and three points worse off than us so it will be a crucial game for both teams who will be looking at pulling away from the bottom of the pile.

The gaffer could face selection headaches for the first time with Jake Goodman serving a ban for his red card against Worthing and Myles Judd could also miss out through an accumulation of bookings.

Slough are unbeaten in five matches since Boxing Day, winning two and drawing three. Even at this stage of the campaign, a win here will be vital to push on for the remainder of the season. Goals have been hard to come by for the Whites but Brundle promised that they would be working on this in training in the lead up to the game.

Unfortunately there will not be any DAFCLive Text for this match so we will try and keep you updated as much as possible on the socials. We hope to see as many of you there as possible.

COYW.

Ticket Information:

Adult 18-64 – £13

Concessions 65+ – £7

Student 16-17, NUS – £3

Child 5-15 – £1

Arbour Park, Stoke Road, Slough, SL2 5AY
Parking:

There is no charge for parking in Unreserved bays at Arbour Park. Parking is not allocated and is managed on a first come, first served basis. Parking for Blue Badge holders is available on a first come, first served basis.

From the M25 (south): Exit at Junction 15 (signposted Reading/Slough) onto the M4. Exit the M4 at Junction 5 (signposted Colnbrook/Datchet/Langley). Head west on London Road (A4). Pass the Sainsbury’s Superstore on your right hand side and drive straight over the roundabout, continuing on London Road. Pass the Tesco Slough Extra store and then the turning to Slough Rail station on your right and at the next junction, turn right onto Stoke Road (B416). Continue along Stoke Road for 0.7 miles, going straight ahead at the crossroads with Shaggy Calf Lane and Elliman Avenue (following the signpost to Slough Cemetery & Crematorium, Wexham Park Hospital and Stoke Poges). The entrance to Arbour Park is a few hundred yards further on the right hand side.

WHITES ON THE ROAD AGAIN

Dover head north as once again we hit the road, this time to Hemel Hempstead.

The Whites face Hemel Hempstead Town in the Vanarama National South tomorrow, looking to get back to winning ways after tasting defeat in our last outing. With new additions coming straight into the squad, the gaffer will be looking for a much better performance following the 4-0 defeat to Tonbridge Angels.

‘We have a fully fit squad to choose from but be prepared for changes to be made, that’s for certain. We beat them 4-0 earlier in the season so they will have something to prove against us,’ said Brundle in the build up to the game.

Hopefully we can get a good support to get behind the boys as we look to take another three points.

Unfortunately there will be no DAFCLive Text updates but there will be some updates on the official Twitter page @DoverAthletic

Individual matchday prices are as follows:

  • Adult: £15

  • Concessions: £10

  • Under 18s: £5

For anyone wishing to travel to the game, please see the below:

 Stadium: Vauxhall Road, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 4HW

​Travelling by car

M25 – Leave at junction 21 for M1  North

M1 – Leave at junction 8 for Hemel Hempstead

A41 – Leave at Hemel Hempstead

​Nearest Train Station: Hemel Hempstead

The stadium is a 45 min walk from the station or a 6-8 min ride in a taxi.

HAVANT UP NEXT AT CRABBLE

Havant & Waterlooville are up next for Mitch Brundle’s Dover.

High flying Havant & Waterlooville visit Crabble tomorrow looking to continue in their bid for promotion from the Vanarama National South. Mitch Brundle will step into the home dugout at the Megger Community Stadium for the first time since being given the managers job on a permanent basis and is keen to begin his tenure with a positive result. The gaffer will be in high spirits after recent performances and will be looking for his team to kick on for the remainder of the campaign.

Dover will be looking to avenge a heavy 4 – 2 defeat back in  August at the Draper Tools Community Stadium and will hope that their efforts will be rewarded with the right result this time around. The defeat to Ebbsfleet was a sucker punch to the early work put in place by the new boss but Brundle is keen to ensure that the lads get back on track.

‘There was a level of performance in our last home game that I will expect again,’ said the manager. ‘We will need to be on our ‘A’ game. It’s up to me and Mike Sandmann to prepare the team how we want but it is also down to the players to then perform at the levels they have so far which is what we are asking of them.’

We look forward to welcoming you through the gates at Crabble. As Usual it is pay on the gate, cards are accepted.

Let’s go and get those three points, lads.

COYW