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