Adrian Pennock takes charge of his first home game on Saturday, as the Darts play host to Kent rivals Maidstone United.
Dartford’s survival hopes were dealt a huge blow in midweek, as they officially dropped into the relegation zone. They fell to defeat against Braintree on Tuesday, with the Essex side emerging as 2-0 victors, while Taunton beat Torquay 3-0 at Plainmoor, lifting themselves out of the drop zone. The Darts are level on points with 20th placed Truro, but have played five games more than the Tinners. Welling’s impressive form under Rod Stringer has also given them some daylight between themselves and the drop, leaving Dartford in a perilous position.
Tuesday’s game saw the debut of new loanee Ronny Nelson, who (by most accounts) was the standout performer in a black and white shirt. One player that didn’t have the best of games, however, was Pennock’s first signing, Jordan Greenidge. The striker was dismissed after his collision with Braintree keeper Jack Sims was adjudged to have been worthy of a second yellow card. It is unclear as to whether Greenidge will be available for Saturday or not.
Further up the table, Maidstone are pushing for a place in the Playoffs. At present, they sit behind Bath on goal difference, but could sneak into contention with a win on Saturday. The Stones put themselves in good stead on Tuesday, as they scored two late goals to secure a 2-0 victory over Chelmsford. A Sam Corne penalty, and a stoppage time goal from Matt Rush proved enough to earn three points.
Compared to their last campaign in the National League South, this season hasn’t been as smooth. Of course, the division is a lot more competitive this time around, but much of their focus has understandably been on their historic FA Cup run, in which they reached the 5th Round. Their opponents, Coventry, won 5-0 on the night, but George Elokobi’s passionate manner and record-breaking side had already won many of the nation’s hearts throughout the course of their journey.
Going into the game, the Darts arrive in a torrid vein of form. They have won just once this calendar year and have struggled to score more than once in most of their recent games. Their recent head-to-head form in this derby is just as bad – Maidstone have won the last four fixtures, including this season’s FA Trophy tie at Princes Park. They also emerged victorious when the two sides met at the Gallagher in January, which proved to be the last game for previous Dartford manager Alan Dowson.
A win for the Darts on Saturday would be monumental for both Pennock and the Club. The fans will more than appreciate a win over one of their fiercest rivals, and it could spark some much-needed confidence in the squad for facing their colossal challenge of survival.
Kick-off is 15:00 on Saturday, with tickets priced at £16 for adults and £11 for concessions.