Dover Athletic boss Jake Leberl recently sat down to take questions from our supporters in the first edition of Ask Jake.

From squad depth to matchday preparation, life as the gaffer, and ambitions for the season ahead, Jake gave honest and detailed answers to a wide range of fan-submitted questions.

This Q&A is all about giving supporters the chance to connect directly with the manager — offering a unique insight into the decisions made behind the scenes at Crabble.

We’d like to thank everyone who sent in their questions and helped make this feature possible. Your passion and curiosity are what make Dover Athletic such a special club.

We’ll be running another Ask Jake soon, so keep an eye on our social media channels for your chance to get involved and have your question answered by the manager.

Dover Athletic return to Crabble on Saturday looking to bounce back from their FA Cup exit with a crucial National League South clash against Hampton & Richmond Borough. The Whites face a tough test against a Hampton side that have started the campaign strongly. Jake Leberl’s men will be aiming to replicate the spirit shown in last weekend’s league win at Farnborough as they seek to build momentum in front of the home supporters.

Community Day

Saturday’s fixture has been designated as our first Community Day of the season, with plenty happening both on and off the pitch. Gates open at 1pm, with a children’s disco in the Centre Spot and a face-painting stall inside the ground. We’ve given out over 1,000 free tickets to local schools, community groups and the care sector, while goodie bags will be available for young supporters on the day.

This is also our Food Bank Fixture in partnership with Dover Food Bank – we’re encouraging fans to bring food donations. After the match, players will head into the Centre Spot for photos, autographs, and meet & greets. And of course, our mascot Captain Crab will be there to join the fun!

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic’s FA Cup journey ended with a 4–1 defeat at Farnborough. After a bright start, the Whites went ahead on 26 minutes when Ruben Soares-Junior volleyed home. The lead was short-lived as Dominic Poleon equalised four minutes later before Mason Bloomfield fired the hosts ahead from a corner. Dover pushed after the break but Poleon struck again on 54 minutes, finishing at the second attempt. Chasing the game, Dover were caught late on when Rakish Bingham sealed Farnborough’s passage to the next round. Jake Leberl’s side now turn their focus back to league action at Crabble against Hampton & Richmond.

From the Management

“Obviously, we’re back in league action against Hampton & Richmond. I think the boys know – we all know – that if you’re not at it from the first minute to the last, you’ll get found out. And we definitely got found out against Farnborough on Saturday.”

Hampton & Richmond Borough

Hampton & Richmond Borough came from behind to progress in the Emirates FA Cup with a 4–2 victory over AFC Croydon Athletic at the Beveree. The visitors struck first when Luke Dreher fired home after 24 minutes, but Hampton levelled quickly through Reece Grego-Cox. Croydon regained the lead before half-time via Kadell Daniel, leaving the Beavers with work to do after the break. Sam Deadfield equalised on 62 minutes before substitute Craig Fasanmade put the hosts ahead six minutes later. Another replacement, Ronan Silva, sealed the win late on with Hampton’s fourth, capping a strong second-half fightback in front of 446 fans.

Hampton & Richmond Borough arrive at Crabble with a radically reshaped squad after last season’s struggles, which saw them lose 15 of their final 17 games and finish 18th in National League South. Manager Alan Julian, who stepped into the dugout after ending a 20-year playing career, has overseen wholesale changes with more than a dozen new arrivals. Experienced campaigners such as Alan Massey and Rohan Ince add pedigree, while former Hastings forward Davide Rodari and ex-Daggers striker Reece Grego-Cox provide attacking options. Borough’s heavy turnover brings unpredictability, but they will be determined to steady the ship this term.

Last Six

Hampton & Richmond 2–1 Dagenham & Redbridge (23 Aug, National League South)

Chesham United 1–2 Hampton & Richmond (25 Aug, National League South)

Hampton & Richmond 3–2 Ebbsfleet United (30 Aug, National League South)

Hampton & Richmond 2–2 Torquay United (2 Sept, National League South)

Chippenham Town 1–1 Hampton & Richmond (6 Sept, National League South)

Hampton & Richmond 4–2 AFC Croydon Athletic (13 Sept, FA Cup Second Qualifying Round)

The Venue

We look forward to welcoming Hampton 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.

Farnborough 4–1 Dover Athletic
Emirates FA Cup Second Qualifying Round
Saturday 13 September 2025 – Cherrywood Road
Attendance: 669 | Referee: Jordan Crossley

Dover Athletic’s Emirates FA Cup campaign ended at the first hurdle as Farnborough came from behind to record a 4–1 victory at Cherrywood Road, just seven days after the Whites had edged the same opponents in the league.

It was Dover who struck first after a bright opening spell. On 26 minutes a dangerous cross wasn’t properly cleared by the hosts, and Ruben Soares-Junior reacted sharply to volley home, giving the travelling fans hope of another upset.

The lead, however, was short-lived. Within four minutes, Dominic Poleon levelled the tie when he was picked out by Hakeem Sandah and finished confidently from close range. Just two minutes later, Farnborough had turned the game around entirely. A corner was only half-cleared and fell kindly to Mason Bloomfield, who lashed a shot into the top corner to make it 2–1.

Dover tried to regain a foothold after the break and forced several half chances – Francis Mampolo’s low cross narrowly evading onrushing teammates, while George Wilkinson volleyed over from a set piece. But Farnborough’s quality in the final third proved decisive once again. On 54 minutes, a quickly-taken free kick sent Poleon racing through on goal. Though Mitch Walker blocked the initial effort, the striker pounced on the rebound to claim his second of the game.

With Dover chasing the tie, Farnborough looked increasingly dangerous on the counter. Substitute Rakish Bingham threatened before finally sealing the result four minutes from time, hammering home from a corner to make it 4–1.

The Whites made a series of changes to inject fresh energy – with Baptiste, Beadle, Sheriff and Coker all entering the fray – but were unable to find a way back into the contest.

The result means Dover bow out of the FA Cup, while Farnborough advance to the next round. Attention now turns back to league action, as Jake Leberl’s side host Hampton & Richmond Borough at Crabble next Saturday.

Farnborough

1. Jack Turner (C), 2. Luciano D’Auria-Henry, 4. Billy Clifford, 6. Lachlan Byrd, 8. Louis Lomas, 9. Rakish Bingham, 10. Kai Jennings, 14. Dominic Poleon, 15. Ali Omar, 24. Hakeem Sandah, 26. Mason Bloomfield

Subs:
5. Ollie Robinson, 12. Connor Harris, 16. Renny Smith, 17. Harry Clout, 21. Ryan Huke, 23. Teddy Collis, 25. John Oyenuga

Dover Athletic

1. Mitch Walker, 2. Roman Charles-Cook, 3. Fuad Sesay, 4. Jalen Jones, 6. Luca Cocoracchio, 8. Alfie Matthews, 10. George Nikaj, 14. Ruben Soares-Junior, 21. Jacob Mensah, 23. George Wilkinson, 24. Francis Mampolo

Subs:
7. Luke Baptiste, 9. Kenny Coker, 11. Decarrey Sheriff, 16. Harry Beadle, 17. Henry Lukombo, 22. Momodou Jallow, 27. Jordan Gillmore

Fancy watching the Whites take on Hampton 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:

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

The very special experience costs £32.50 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:

Potato and Leek Soup served with a Ciabatta Roll

Main:

Chicken, Mushroom and Leek Pie served with Mash Potato, Vegetables and Gravy

Dessert:

Salted Caramel Blonde Cheesecake served with Cream

The dress code is smart casual.

To buy your VIP ticket please email enquiries@doverathletic.com or call the office on 01304 822373

Dover Athletic return to Cherrywood Road this weekend for a swift reunion with Farnborough, this time in the Emirates FA Cup. Fresh from last Saturday’s hard-fought 2–1 league victory over the same opponents, the Whites will be looking to repeat the result and secure safe passage into the next round. With Soares-Junior and Nikaj both on target in the league clash, Dover will take confidence into the tie, though Farnborough will be eager to respond on home soil. Cup football always brings its own drama, and the stage is set for another competitive encounter in Hampshire.

Dover Athletic

Dover Athletic secured a valuable 2–1 win at Farnborough. The Whites struck early when Mampolo’s cross was headed home by Soares-Junior after just three minutes. Farnborough levelled soon after as Byrd finished from a free-kick delivery. Dover pushed forward, with Turner producing fine saves to deny Cocoracchio and Charles-Cook, while Nikaj hit the post before half-time. The decisive moment came on 57 minutes when Matthews through ball released Nikaj, who calmly slotted home. Farnborough battled late on, but Dover defended bravely through seven minutes of stoppage time to seal the points ahead of the FA Cup return trip.

From the Management

“We’re in a unique situation, playing them again in the FA Cup. It’ll be a different game, but of course we’re hoping for the same outcome as last week. A good cup run would be brilliant – the club deserves it, and so do the fans, who turned out in great numbers again. More than ever, it would be special to give them that. But we know they’ll be a wounded animal. They beat Chelmsford heavily in the week, and we’re well aware of how dangerous they can be. We’ve got to be fully prepared.”

Farnborough

Farnborough, managed by long-serving boss Spencer Day, continue to carry the “dark horse” tag in National League South. Last season’s 10th-place finish showed promise, and summer recruitment has strengthened their squad. Former Ebbsfleet duo Dominic Poleon and Rakish Bingham bring proven firepower, while Mason Bloomfield has also arrived to bolster the attack. Billy Clifford’s capture from Barnet adds quality in midfield. Defensively, signings Lachlan Byrd, Ali Omar and Louie Lomas provide fresh options in front of experienced keeper Jack Turner. With goalscorer Ricky Holmes departing, much will hinge on Poleon and Bloomfield if Boro are to challenge for the play-offs.

The Venue

BR Saunders Transport Community Stadium, Cherrywood Rd, Farnborough GU14 8UD

More info: https://farnboroughfc.co.uk/club/stadium/

Admission  

Adult £16
Concession £12
14-17-year-old £6
Under 14 (must be supervised by a paying Adult at all times) FREE

Saturday 6 September 2025 – National League South
Cherrywood Road
Farnborough 1–2 Dover Athletic (HT 1–1)

Dover Athletic earned a hard-fought three points on the road with a 2–1 victory over Farnborough at Cherrywood Road, thanks to goals from Ruben Soares-Junior and the in-form George Nikaj.

The Whites made the perfect start, striking within three minutes. A deep cross from Mampolo picked out Soares-Junior, whose header forced a save from Jack Turner, but the Farnborough keeper fumbled and the ball bounced over the line to give Dover an early lead. Nikaj almost doubled the advantage moments later, skimming a header over the bar, as Dover pinned their hosts back.

Against the run of play, Farnborough found a leveller on 12 minutes. Toby Bower’s free-kick delivery caused chaos in the box and defender Lachlan Byrd guided it into the bottom corner. The hosts briefly grew in confidence, but Dover soon reasserted control, forcing Turner into several excellent stops – most notably a superb reflex save from Cocoracchio’s close-range effort and another low stop to deny Charles-Cook. At the other end, Walker had to be alert to keep out a Poleon strike, while Nikaj rattled the post just before half-time.

The second half began brightly for Dover, with Wilkinson and Charles-Cook looking lively in advanced positions. Their pressure finally told in the 57th minute when Matthews clever through ball sent Nikaj clear, and the striker coolly slotted home his sixth of the season to restore Dover’s advantage.

Nikaj almost added a second soon after, striking the post again, but as the half wore on, Farnborough began to apply late pressure, hampered by injuries that saw captain Ollie Robinson forced off. Turner continued to frustrate Dover, tipping away efforts from Francis and Matthews, while Walker remained solid at the other end.

With tired legs showing, Dover introduced Beadle, Baptiste, Coker and Sheriff to shore things up. The Whites had to dig deep as Farnborough pressed hard in seven minutes of stoppage time, with a glancing header flashing wide in the closing stages.

Dover stood firm to secure the win with the travelling fans in full voice under the Hampshire sunshine. The result sees the Whites build momentum ahead of a swift return to Farnborough next weekend in the FA Cup.

Dover Athletic:
1 Walker, 2 Charles-Cook, 4 Jones, 21 Mensah, 3 Sesay, 6 Cocoracchio, 8 Matthews, 23 Wilkinson, 10 Nikaj, 14 Soares-Junior, 24 Mampolo

Subs:
Baptiste, Coker, Sheriff, Beadle, Lukombo, Jallow, Gillmore

Farnborough:
1 Turner, 2 D’Auria-Henry, 5 Robinson, 6 Byrd, 12 Harris, 14 Poleon, 16 Smith, 19 Bower, 21 Huke, 23 Collis, 26 Bloomfield

Subs:
8 Lomas, 9 Bingham, 10 Jennings, 11 Keita, 17 Clout, 24 Sandah

Dover Athletic can confirm that defender Joe Tennent has left the club.

Joe joined the Whites ahead of the 2024/25 campaign and quickly became an important part of the side. He went on to make 36 appearances in all competitions last season, playing a vital role in our successful promotion back to the National League South. His consistency and commitment were clear to see throughout the year, and he will be remembered as a key figure in one of the club’s most memorable campaigns in recent years.

Tennent’s career has seen him enjoy spells with a number of clubs. He made 32 appearances for Three Bridges in the 2022/23 season, after rejoining them for a second spell following a stint with VCD Athletic. In 2023/24, he starred for Whitehawk, where he was named the club’s Managers’ Player of the Season before making the move to Crabble. He also had a short loan back at Whitehawk during his time with Dover.

Everyone at Dover Athletic would like to place on record our thanks to Joe for his efforts in a Whites shirt and wish him the very best for the future.

Dover return to action on Saturday with a tough trip to Farnborough, the first of back-to-back meetings with the Hampshire side. After a dramatic 2-2 draw against Dagenham in midweek, Jake Leberl’s men will be eager to turn performances into three points as they continue their National League South campaign.

Dover Athletic

Dover were denied victory by a late penalty as they drew 2-2 with 10-man Dagenham at Crabble. The Daggers struck inside two minutes through Donovan Wilson before Corey Panter’s red card handed the hosts the initiative. Dover hit the post before half-time but levelled just seconds after the restart, Francis Mampolo crossing for Ruben Soares-Junior to head home. The forward then pounced on a rebound to fire Dover ahead on 67 minutes. Dagenham pushed late on and were awarded a penalty when Harvey Broad was fouled, Ashley Hemmings converting to rescue a point for the visitors before a crowd of 1,103.

From the Management

“They had a great result at Chelmsford on Monday and have some really strong players, so it’s going to be another tough test. But we’re generally strong away from home and we’re looking forward to it.””

Farnborough

Farnborough head into Saturday’s clash with Dover on the back of an emphatic 5-2 win at Chelmsford City. Spencer Day’s side were clinical in front of goal, with Mason Bloomfield and Ryan Huke both netting twice and Dominic Poleon also on target. Boro struck three times before the break, punishing Chelmsford despite Josh Castiglione briefly reducing the deficit. After the restart, Farnborough frustrated their hosts and sealed victory late on, Huke slotting in his second before Bloomfield lashed home in stoppage time. The result underlined Boro’s attacking firepower, with Bloomfield, Poleon and Huke all in strong early-season form.

Farnborough, managed by long-serving boss Spencer Day, continue to carry the “dark horse” tag in National League South. Last season’s 10th-place finish showed promise, and summer recruitment has strengthened their squad. Former Ebbsfleet duo Dominic Poleon and Rakish Bingham bring proven firepower, while Mason Bloomfield has also arrived to bolster the attack. Billy Clifford’s capture from Barnet adds quality in midfield. Defensively, signings Lachlan Byrd, Ali Omar and Louie Lomas provide fresh options in front of experienced keeper Jack Turner. With goalscorer Ricky Holmes departing, much will hinge on Poleon and Bloomfield if Boro are to challenge for the play-offs.

The Venue

BR Saunders Transport Community Stadium, Cherrywood Rd, Farnborough GU14 8UD

More info: https://farnboroughfc.co.uk/club/stadium/

Admission  

Adult £14
Concession £11
14-17-year-old £6
Under 14 (must be supervised by a paying Adult at all times) FREE
Family Ticket* (2 Adults, 2 Children Under 14) £21

A brace from Ruben Soares-Junior looked set to hand Dover all three points on Tuesday night, but a late penalty meant honours were shared in a 2-2 draw at Crabble.

The visitors could not have asked for a better start, breaking the deadlock inside two minutes. Reggie Young burst clear down the right and cut the ball back for Donovan Wilson, who calmly tucked home from close range. Dover responded with purpose, Luke Baptiste forcing an early save and Harry Beadle heading wide, but Dagenham continued to threaten on the counter and tested Mitch Walker through Dylan Stephenson and Tom Sidwell.

The game turned on 25 minutes when Daggers defender Corey Panter was shown a straight red card for an off-the-ball incident, leaving the visitors to play over an hour with ten men. Dover pressed forward and were inches from levelling when Roman Charles-Cook rattled the upright, before Walker was called on again to deny Wilson with a sharp stop just before the break.

Jake Leberl made changes at half-time, introducing Francis Mampolo and George Wilkinson, and the impact was instant. Just 35 seconds after the restart, Mampolo delivered a superb cross from the left which Soares-Junior headed in at the back post to bring Dover level. The Whites, buoyed by the equaliser, pushed on and completed the turnaround midway through the half. Mampolo’s strike was parried by goalkeeper Daniel Barden, but Soares-Junior reacted quickest to lash home his second and put Dover 2-1 up.

Dagenham, however, refused to fold. Substitute Ashley Hemmings almost created an equaliser when his low ball was steered narrowly wide by Rafiq Khaleel, and with four minutes to play they were handed a lifeline. Referee Jonathan Bolland pointed to the spot after Harvey Broad was brought down in the box by Henry Lukombo, and Hemmings kept his cool to send Walker the wrong way and level the contest at 2-2.

Alfie Matthews went close in stoppage time with a bending effort, but Dover were forced to settle for a point in front of a crowd of 1,103. The Whites now turn their attention to back-to-back games with Farnborough, first in the league and then in the FA Cup.

Dover Athletic

Walker, Charles-Cook (Lukombo 76), Sesay, Jones, Mensah, Cocoracchio, Beadle (Wilkinson 46), Matthews (Sheriff 90+2), Baptiste (Mampolo 46), Nikaj, Soares-Junior.
Subs not used: Tennent, Coker, Gillmore.

Dagenham & Redbridge

Barden, Lusala (Broad 72), Maghoma, Panter, Rendall, Harrack, Sidwell, Young (Hemmings 78), Haigh (Khaleel 78), Wilson (N’Guessan 72), Stephenson.
Subs not used: Howes, Scott, Kalambayi.

Referee: Jonathan Bolland
Attendance: 1,103