Dover Athletic edged out Canvey Island in a thrilling encounter at the Megger Community Stadium, securing a 3-2 victory that extends their unbeaten run in the Isthmian League Premier Division to seven matches. A spirited display from the Whites in front of 911 fans saw them come from behind twice before sealing the win with a moment of brilliance.
The visitors took an early lead in controversial fashion. After Elliott Ronto’s long-range effort struck the crossbar, initial confusion arose as the assistant referee flagged for offside. However, after deliberation with referee Daniel Blades, the goal was awarded, adjudging the ball to have crossed the line. Dover responded with attacking intent, and George Nikaj came close to leveling shortly after with a fierce strike that whistled wide.
Persistence paid off just before half-time when Ruben Soares-Junior netted a beautifully crafted equaliser. Nikaj played a perfectly timed, no look ball into the forward’s path, and Soares-Junior coolly slotted home his 10th goal of the campaign.
Canvey regained the lead in the second half through Ronto’s second of the afternoon. A free-kick from distance caught Dover’s keeper Mitch Walker off guard, squirming beneath him to restore the visitors’ advantage. Despite the setback, Dover refused to buckle.
The hosts found their rhythm again, and Alfie Matthews stepped up with a stunning strike in the 72nd minute, bending the ball into the top corner to make it 2-2. Just two minutes later, George Nikaj capped off a remarkable turnaround with a thunderous effort from range. The ball cannoned off the crossbar and over the line, sparking celebrations among the home faithful.
Canvey pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, with Walker making a crucial save to deny Emmanuel Adebiyi. At the other end, Bobby Mason thwarted Soares-Junior’s bid for a second goal. However, Dover held firm to claim all three points.
Manager Jake Leberl will be pleased with his side’s resilience and attacking flair as they head into their next fixture top of the table and face off against struggling Bowers & Pitsea.
Dover Athletic: Walker, Charles-Cook, Sesay, Mensah, Cocoracchio, Baptiste (Wilkinson 76mins), Matthews, Nikaj, Soares-Junior, Pont, Mampolo (T.Amgbaduba 88mins). Subs not used: Gyebi, Young, E.Amgbaduba.
Canvey Island: Mason, Yates (Crowhurst 84mins), Stephen, Hart, Wallace (Dorrell 84mins), Parsons, Ronto, Adebiyi, Sach, Brown, Harris. Subs not used: Salmon, Tinubu, Hubble.
Dover Athletic 3
Ruben SOARES-JUNIOR (45′)
Alfie MATTHEWS (72′)
George NIKAJ (74′)
Canvey Island 2
Elliott Ronto (10′)
Elliott Ronto (57′)
Isthmian League – Premier Division
Attendance: 911
Kick-off: 3pm
Referee: Daniel Blades
Venue: Megger Community Stadium