Dover head to Dartford on Monday in the Isthmian Premier Division Play Off Final for a chance to return to the National League South. It’s a massive Kent Derby Final.
Dover Athletic
On Wednesday night, Dover Athletic reached the Isthmian League Play-Off Final with a dramatic 2-1 extra-time win over Billericay Town at New Lodge. After a goalless 90 minutes, Femi Akinwande gave the hosts the lead, his shot deflecting off the post and Walker’s back. But Dover hit back immediately through Alfie Matthews, who curled a stunning free kick into the top corner. With penalties looming, Matthews stepped up again, delivering another sublime free kick in the 119th minute to seal victory. His heroics sent Dover through to face Dartford in Monday’s final.
In our home meeting earlier in the season Dover cruised to a dominant 5-1 win over Dartford. Ruben Soares-Junior opened the scoring after a goalkeeping error, before George Wilkinson doubled the lead. Luke Baptiste added a third just before half-time. Alfie Matthews curled in a stunning free kick early in the second half, and although Dartford replied through Jeremiah Pinder, Soares-Junior sealed the win late on.
In the away encounter just a few weeks ago, Dover fell to a 3-1 defeat at Dartford. Despite a bright start and early chances for Nikaj and Matthews, Dover fell behind to a sublime Carruthers free kick. Olopade added a second before the break, and Hill’s header made it three just after. Soares-Junior nearly responded with a thunderous strike off the post, then scored a stunning 20th league goal to offer late hope. Dover pushed forward but couldn’t break through again. Dartford’s physicality and clinical finishing proved decisive, sealing victory in the Good Friday Kent Derby.
Dartford
Dartford staged a dramatic comeback to beat Cray Valley PM 4-3 after extra time and reach the Isthmian Premier League Play-Off Final. Trailing 2-0 after two headers from Danny Waldren, Dartford pulled one back through a Samir Carruthers penalty following a red card for Cray. Sam Odaudu equalised deep into stoppage time, forcing extra time. He then set up Hayden Bullas to make it 3-2 before George Whitefield added a fourth. Cray struck late via Adam Coombes, but it wasn’t enough. A pulsating night at Princes Park ended in wild celebrations as Dartford booked a final clash with Dover.
Dartford finished in 3rd place in the Isthmian Premier League with with 84 points from 42 matches. Their strong campaign featured 25 wins, 9 draws, and 8 losses, with a goal difference of +28, having scored 77 and conceded 49. At home, Dartford played 21 times, winning 12, drawing 5, and losing 4. Their away form was similarly strong: 13 wins, 4 draws, and 4 losses from 21 fixtures.
Last 5
12/04 – Whitehawk (A) – Won 1-0
18/04 – Dover Athletic (H) – Won 3-1
21/04 – Cray Wanderers (A) – Drew 2-2
26/04 – Carshalton Athletic (H) – Lost 1-4
30/04 – Cray Valley PM (H) – Won 4-3 AET (Play Off Semi Final)
The Venue
Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park
Grassbanks
Darenth Road
Dartford
Kent
DA1 1RT
More information: https://www.dartfordfc.com/directions-to-the-ground/
Admission
This match has sold out. There are no away tickets available.
Can’t make the game?
Join us in The Centre Spot as we stream the full Play-Off Final LIVE. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a casual supporter, everyone’s welcome at The Centre Spot to soak in the atmosphere, cheer on the lads, and share the moment with fellow Whites. Doors open from 11.30am. Free entry for all. Our food outlet will be open, grab a bite to eat while you enjoy the action.
Prefer the comfort of your own home? The match will be streamed by the Isthmian League on ClubberTV via the following link for a one off payment of £10.99: https://www.clubbertv.co.uk/sports/football/isthmian-football-league