*BS*Dover Athletic are pleased to announce the signing of former central defender Tyrone Sterling, who left Whites for Kent rivals Dartford last season, on a one-year deal.*BF*

Sterling, 26, was Chris Kinnear’s first signing in his second spell as manager of the club as he joined from then-Ryman Premier side Cray Wanderers in January 2013.

The former Dagenham & Redbridge trainee impressed as he helped his side reach the final of the Blue Square Bet South Play-Off Final against Salisbury – making 22 appearances without missing a game and scoring three times.

Sterling departed that summer to gain some Conference Premier experience with Dartford last season, and will add to his Conference Premier appearances with Dover in the upcoming 2014/15 season.

*Lpic1*The news of the signing also comes on the same day skipper Craig Stone agreed terms to commit his future to Crabble.

Stone, 25, captained his side to Skrill South Promotion glory last month and also has some Conference Premier experience himself after playing at Ebbsfleet United, before signing for Whites in May 2013.

*BS*More reaction and interviews with both players to follow.*BF*

*BS*Player Profiles:*BF* *Link1* and *Link2*

*BS*Dover Athletic are pleased to announce the signing of former central defender Tyrone Sterling, who left Whites for Kent rivals Dartford last season, on a one-year deal.*BF*

Sterling, 26, was Chris Kinnear’s first signing in his second spell as manager of the club as he joined from then-Ryman Premier side Cray Wanderers in January 2013.

The former Dagenham & Redbridge trainee impressed as he helped his side reach the final of the Blue Square Bet South Play-Off Final against Salisbury – making 22 appearances without missing a game and scoring three times.

Sterling departed that summer to gain some Conference Premier experience with Dartford last season, and will add to his Conference Premier appearances with Dover in the upcoming 2014/15 season.

*Lpic1*The news of the signing also comes on the same day skipper Craig Stone agreed terms to commit his future to Crabble.

Stone, 25, captained his side to Skrill South Promotion glory last month and also has some Conference Premier experience himself after playing at Ebbsfleet United, before signing for Whites in May 2013.

*BS*More reaction and interviews with both players to follow.*BF*

*BS*Player Profiles:*BF* *Link1* and *Link2*

*BS*Dover Athletic striker Stefan Payne speaks to Jack O’Sullivan about his reasons for joining the club, his experience in non-league football and his hopes for the 2014/15 season.*BF*

Payne became manager Chris Kinnear’s first summer signing as he prepares to lead Whites into the Conference Premier next season, joining the club on the back of a prolific campaign at Ryman Premier side AFC Hornchurch.

The frontman hit 31 goals in 46 games for The Urchins last season, finishing as joint top-scorer with former Dover striker George Purcell. Payne was courted by Whites on more than one occasion over the past twelve months, as he explains: “There was some interest from the club last summer, but that didn’t come to anything. Then, further interest came in January but I was still under contract at Hornchurch so I ended up seeing out my contract with them.

“When you’re a footballer and your contract expires, it’s always a bit of a stressful time as all you want to be doing is playing football and find yourself a new club. When I found out Dover were interested in me this time around, it was a no-brainer.

“I jumped at the chance. To go from the Ryman Premier to the Conference Premier is a big chance, and one that I am sure I can make the most of. I’ve played at this level before, with Ebbsfleet, and am ready for the challenge.”

During his time spent with Ebbsfleet, the 22-year-old played alongside a number of players who were on Whites’ books last season – Nathan Elder, Craig Stone, Ashley Carew and Liam Bellamy: “I’m not sure how many of them are going to be with the club next season, but if any of them are then it will be good to link up with them again. They’re good players. I also played with Tom Murphy when I was younger.”

Despite the two-division jump Payne has now committed to, he is optimistic in his ability to make the transition and fire in the goals that he undoubtedly has in him: “I’m a very confident player. If I can get a good run in the side, then I’ll always have the belief that I can score goals.

“Last season, I set myself a target of 20-25 goals for Hornchurch and I beat that. That was my first full season with a club, and if I can stay fit this season then I don’t see why I can’t get a similar number next season for Dover. It is a step up in quality, but I think it will suit me. Sometimes, the lower down the leagues you go the harder it is – but playing every week with, and against, better players will make me a better player.”

When asked of his strengths, the Lambeth-born man stated: “I love getting in behind defenders, or getting them in a one-on-one situation and beating them. I’m also very quick, and work hard, and no defender likes a player like that getting in behind them as it forces them to play with their back to goal.”

Payne, who made 27 appearances for Gillingham between 2010 and 2012, still has aspirations to play in the Football League: “Of course, every player at this level should be looking to break into the professional game. I’m still young, and hopefully one day I can get back into the League.

“This season though, I’ve just got to get my head down and work hard. I’ve done a lot, and learnt a lot, in my last few years and I’ll be bringing all of that with me to Dover.

“I just can’t wait to get started now. The stress has gone and now I’m just excited. This is a big club in Kent football and I’m really pleased to be a part of it. We’ll be going to some big, well-supported clubs next season like Bristol Rovers and Torquay, but I’m sure we will go into every game positively and confident of pulling off some upsets along the way.”

“Finally, I’m very grateful for the good-luck messages I’ve already received from a lot of Dover fans – and I look forward to seeing you and playing in front of you next season.”

*Link1*

*BS*Dover Athletic striker Stefan Payne speaks to Jack O’Sullivan about his reasons for joining the club, his experience in non-league football and his hopes for the 2014/15 season.*BF*

Payne became manager Chris Kinnear’s first summer signing as he prepares to lead Whites into the Conference Premier next season, joining the club on the back of a prolific campaign at Ryman Premier side AFC Hornchurch.

The frontman hit 31 goals in 46 games for The Urchins last season, finishing as joint top-scorer with former Dover striker George Purcell. Payne was courted by Whites on more than one occasion over the past twelve months, as he explains: “There was some interest from the club last summer, but that didn’t come to anything. Then, further interest came in January but I was still under contract at Hornchurch so I ended up seeing out my contract with them.

“When you’re a footballer and your contract expires, it’s always a bit of a stressful time as all you want to be doing is playing football and find yourself a new club. When I found out Dover were interested in me this time around, it was a no-brainer.

“I jumped at the chance. To go from the Ryman Premier to the Conference Premier is a big chance, and one that I am sure I can make the most of. I’ve played at this level before, with Ebbsfleet, and am ready for the challenge.”

During his time spent with Ebbsfleet, the 22-year-old played alongside a number of players who were on Whites’ books last season – Nathan Elder, Craig Stone, Ashley Carew and Liam Bellamy: “I’m not sure how many of them are going to be with the club next season, but if any of them are then it will be good to link up with them again. They’re good players. I also played with Tom Murphy when I was younger.”

Despite the two-division jump Payne has now committed to, he is optimistic in his ability to make the transition and fire in the goals that he undoubtedly has in him: “I’m a very confident player. If I can get a good run in the side, then I’ll always have the belief that I can score goals.

“Last season, I set myself a target of 20-25 goals for Hornchurch and I beat that. That was my first full season with a club, and if I can stay fit this season then I don’t see why I can’t get a similar number next season for Dover. It is a step up in quality, but I think it will suit me. Sometimes, the lower down the leagues you go the harder it is – but playing every week with, and against, better players will make me a better player.”

When asked of his strengths, the Lambeth-born man stated: “I love getting in behind defenders, or getting them in a one-on-one situation and beating them. I’m also very quick, and work hard, and no defender likes a player like that getting in behind them as it forces them to play with their back to goal.”

Payne, who made 27 appearances for Gillingham between 2010 and 2012, still has aspirations to play in the Football League: “Of course, every player at this level should be looking to break into the professional game. I’m still young, and hopefully one day I can get back into the League.

“This season though, I’ve just got to get my head down and work hard. I’ve done a lot, and learnt a lot, in my last few years and I’ll be bringing all of that with me to Dover.

“I just can’t wait to get started now. The stress has gone and now I’m just excited. This is a big club in Kent football and I’m really pleased to be a part of it. We’ll be going to some big, well-supported clubs next season like Bristol Rovers and Torquay, but I’m sure we will go into every game positively and confident of pulling off some upsets along the way.”

“Finally, I’m very grateful for the good-luck messages I’ve already received from a lot of Dover fans – and I look forward to seeing you and playing in front of you next season.”

*Link1*

*BS*Dover Athletic are delighted to announce the signing of striker Stefan Payne, who joins the club on a free transfer. Payne scored 31 goals in 46 appearances for AFC Hornchurch last season, and has signed a one-year deal.*BF*

The 22-year-old is manager Chris Kinnear’s first signing of the summer, as the side prepare for a return to the Conference Premier.

Payne started his career at Croydon, before joining Sutton United in 2009 and scoring a hat-trick on his debut. He soon caught the eye of Football League scouts, and the striker signed for Fulham in 2009.

He then recorded 27 appearances for Gillingham, before spells at Braintree Town, Aldershot Town, Sutton United, Macclesfield Town and Ebbsfleet United. In August 2013, the Lambeth-born man joined AFC Hornchurch, where he netted 31 goals and contributed 11 assists.

Chris Kinnear has been a long-time admirer of the youngster, and the club are delighted to welcome Stefan to Crabble.

*Link1*

*Link2*

*BS*Dover Athletic are delighted to announce the signing of striker Stefan Payne, who joins the club on a free transfer. Payne scored 31 goals in 46 appearances for AFC Hornchurch last season, and has signed a one-year deal.*BF*

The 22-year-old is manager Chris Kinnear’s first signing of the summer, as the side prepare for a return to the Conference Premier.

Payne started his career at Croydon, before joining Sutton United in 2009 and scoring a hat-trick on his debut. He soon caught the eye of Football League scouts, and the striker signed for Fulham in 2009.

He then recorded 27 appearances for Gillingham, before spells at Braintree Town, Aldershot Town, Sutton United, Macclesfield Town and Ebbsfleet United. In August 2013, the Lambeth-born man joined AFC Hornchurch, where he netted 31 goals and contributed 11 assists.

Chris Kinnear has been a long-time admirer of the youngster, and the club are delighted to welcome Stefan to Crabble.

*Link1*

*Link2*

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*Link1*
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From http://www.ebbsfleetunited.co.uk/ –

Saturday’s Skrill South Promotion Final at Ebbsfleet United will NOT be an all-ticket match, but segregation will be in force.

Following a meeting with the police and safety officials this morning, Ebbsfleet United can confirm that the Skrill South Promotion Final this Saturday will NOT be all ticket but there will be segregation of fans in operation.

Dover have been allocated the entire Swanscombe End plus 177 seats at the Swanscombe End of the Main Stand.

The match kicks off at 3.00pm and gates will open at 1.00pm. Prices are adults £10, concessions £8, juniors £5 and U12s accompanied by an adult are free (please see the EUFC admission page for details of the age limits for these groups).

There is plenty of parking available at Ebbsfleet International Station at £3 per car. More about car parking and directions to Stonebridge Road can be found here.

No alcohol will be allowed to be consumed in view of the pitch.

——————————————————————-
*Link1*
——————————————————————-

From http://www.ebbsfleetunited.co.uk/ –

Saturday’s Skrill South Promotion Final at Ebbsfleet United will NOT be an all-ticket match, but segregation will be in force.

Following a meeting with the police and safety officials this morning, Ebbsfleet United can confirm that the Skrill South Promotion Final this Saturday will NOT be all ticket but there will be segregation of fans in operation.

Dover have been allocated the entire Swanscombe End plus 177 seats at the Swanscombe End of the Main Stand.

The match kicks off at 3.00pm and gates will open at 1.00pm. Prices are adults £10, concessions £8, juniors £5 and U12s accompanied by an adult are free (please see the EUFC admission page for details of the age limits for these groups).

There is plenty of parking available at Ebbsfleet International Station at £3 per car. More about car parking and directions to Stonebridge Road can be found here.

No alcohol will be allowed to be consumed in view of the pitch.

*BS*Dover Athletic are looking to win the Kent Senior Cup for the first time in 23 years when they take on Ebbsfleet United in the final at Gillingham’s Priestfield Stadium as part of the 125th anniversary on Bank Holiday Monday.*BF*

Whites head into this fixture as top goal-scorers of this competition – scoring an impressive 17 goals in their four Kent Senior Cup games – and could claim a first trophy for manager Chris Kinnear since he rejoined the club in January 2013.

With both sides meeting again in the Skrill South Promotion Final just five days later, this clash can be considered as Part I of II of the big Kent battle with tension surrounding this week since the events of which occurred in pre-season.

However, with the majority of the importance and significance riding on the play-off final, this Kent Senior Cup final may be regarded as just a ‘warm-up game’ and an opportunity for both sides to rest key players ahead of Saturday.

*BS*TEAM NEWS:*BF*
With the Promotion Final in everyone’s minds, Kinnear is expected to recall Lee Hook, Ricky Gabriel, Michael Kamara, Terrell Forbes, James Rogers, Elliott Charles, Jeff Goulding, Tom Murphy and the handful of DAFC Academy players to the 16-man squad – all of whom did not start Saturday’s astonishing 3-0 win at Sutton United.

If, however, Kinnear opts to name a strong side with silverware in mind, then the players that will definitely miss this tie are Barry Cogan (suspended) and Callum Davies (cup-tied – having played for Gillingham in the first round) while Craig Stone is largely expected to start as he will miss Saturday’s play-off final through suspension.

*Lpic1**BS*HOW BOTH TEAMS REACHED THE FINAL:*BF*
Whites started their campaign back in September when they hosted Margate – Kinnear’s former club before he left for Crabble – in the first round and crushed the Ryman Premier League club with a resounding 8-0 win.

Michael Bakare, now at Tonbridge Angels, scored a hat-trick while an Ashley Carew brace and further goals from Nathan Elder, Cogan and a John Beales own goal helped Dover equal their biggest competitive victory – of which the same score line was achieved when Whites overcame East Preston in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round in 2009.

This victory set up a next-round tie with Erith & Belvedere – a division lower than Margate – which was not as straightforward and comprehensive as the first round tie as they beat the Ryman Division One North side 3-1 at Crabble after goals from Elder, Charles and Ricky Modeste.

The side’s best performance in the competition this season arguably came at Dartford over five months later as Whites swept past the Skrill Premier side at the quarter-final stage – with goals coming from trialist Andre Blackman, Moses Ademola’s first strike of the season and an own goal from Tom Wellham in a 3-0 win.

Whites hosted Bromley in the semi-finals little over a month ago and recovered from a losing position to win the tie 3-2 thanks to goals from Kamara and a late, dramatic brace from Charles.

*Ppic1*Ebbsfleet’s route to the final was completed with wins over Tonbridge (3-0), Sittingbourne (6-1), Tunbridge Wells (3-1) and Whitstable Town (2-0) – with former Dover strikers Ben May and Billy Bricknell scoring three goals each in this season’s competition.

They have scored 13 goals en route to the final – a record only beaten by their opponents with 17 – although they have conceded less goals than Dover in the competition.

The final is a repeat of the 1991 final – the last time Whites won the Kent Senior Cup when Leroy Ambrose scored the only goal of the game against then-Gravesend & Northfleet at Priestfield during Kinnear’s first spell in charge of Dover.

Whites fans who witnessed that victory will be hoping for déjà vu as Dover look to clinch their first piece of silverware since winning the Ryman Premier League in 2009.

*BS*MORE INFORMATION ON THE GAME:*BF*
Details on purchasing tickets for this game can be found *Link1* while details on the Supporters Club travelling to Priestfield can be found *Link2*.

If, however, you cannot make the game, then live text commentary will be brought to you by Kieran Dodd on Twitter – follow *Link3* from 14:00 where team news, pre-match build up, live coverage and photos will be provided as always.

*BS*Dover Athletic are looking to win the Kent Senior Cup for the first time in 23 years when they take on Ebbsfleet United in the final at Gillingham’s Priestfield Stadium as part of the 125th anniversary on Bank Holiday Monday.*BF*

Whites head into this fixture as top goal-scorers of this competition – scoring an impressive 17 goals in their four Kent Senior Cup games – and could claim a first trophy for manager Chris Kinnear since he rejoined the club in January 2013.

With both sides meeting again in the Skrill South Promotion Final just five days later, this clash can be considered as Part I of II of the big Kent battle with tension surrounding this week since the events of which occurred in pre-season.

However, with the majority of the importance and significance riding on the play-off final, this Kent Senior Cup final may be regarded as just a ‘warm-up game’ and an opportunity for both sides to rest key players ahead of Saturday.

*BS*TEAM NEWS:*BF*
With the Promotion Final in everyone’s minds, Kinnear is expected to recall Lee Hook, Ricky Gabriel, Michael Kamara, Terrell Forbes, James Rogers, Elliott Charles, Jeff Goulding, Tom Murphy and the handful of DAFC Academy players to the 16-man squad – all of whom did not start Saturday’s astonishing 3-0 win at Sutton United.

If, however, Kinnear opts to name a strong side with silverware in mind, then the players that will definitely miss this tie are Barry Cogan (suspended) and Callum Davies (cup-tied – having played for Gillingham in the first round) while Craig Stone is largely expected to start as he will miss Saturday’s play-off final through suspension.

*Lpic1**BS*HOW BOTH TEAMS REACHED THE FINAL:*BF*
Whites started their campaign back in September when they hosted Margate – Kinnear’s former club before he left for Crabble – in the first round and crushed the Ryman Premier League club with a resounding 8-0 win.

Michael Bakare, now at Tonbridge Angels, scored a hat-trick while an Ashley Carew brace and further goals from Nathan Elder, Cogan and a John Beales own goal helped Dover equal their biggest competitive victory – of which the same score line was achieved when Whites overcame East Preston in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round in 2009.

This victory set up a next-round tie with Erith & Belvedere – a division lower than Margate – which was not as straightforward and comprehensive as the first round tie as they beat the Ryman Division One North side 3-1 at Crabble after goals from Elder, Charles and Ricky Modeste.

The side’s best performance in the competition this season arguably came at Dartford over five months later as Whites swept past the Skrill Premier side at the quarter-final stage – with goals coming from trialist Andre Blackman, Moses Ademola’s first strike of the season and an own goal from Tom Wellham in a 3-0 win.

Whites hosted Bromley in the semi-finals little over a month ago and recovered from a losing position to win the tie 3-2 thanks to goals from Kamara and a late, dramatic brace from Charles.

*Ppic1*Ebbsfleet’s route to the final was completed with wins over Tonbridge (3-0), Sittingbourne (6-1), Tunbridge Wells (3-1) and Whitstable Town (2-0) – with former Dover strikers Ben May and Billy Bricknell scoring three goals each in this season’s competition.

They have scored 13 goals en route to the final – a record only beaten by their opponents with 17 – although they have conceded less goals than Dover in the competition.

The final is a repeat of the 1991 final – the last time Whites won the Kent Senior Cup when Leroy Ambrose scored the only goal of the game against then-Gravesend & Northfleet at Priestfield during Kinnear’s first spell in charge of Dover.

Whites fans who witnessed that victory will be hoping for déjà vu as Dover look to clinch their first piece of silverware since winning the Ryman Premier League in 2009.

*BS*MORE INFORMATION ON THE GAME:*BF*
Details on purchasing tickets for this game can be found *Link1* while details on the Supporters Club travelling to Priestfield can be found *Link2*.

If, however, you cannot make the game, then live text commentary will be brought to you by Kieran Dodd on Twitter – follow *Link3* from 14:00 where team news, pre-match build up, live coverage and photos will be provided as always.