On Sunday, Ebbsfleet United will host Chippenham Town in an all ticket Vanarama National League South play-off ‘semi-final’.

Having secured third place in the table by defeating Chelmsford City two-one on the final day of the season, they were able to enjoy a week of preparation whist awaiting news of their opponents.

That turned out to be Chippenham who defeated Dartford in a play-off eliminator in a hard fought game at Princes Park that was decided on penalties. There were very few chances in the ninety minutes and extra time. Goalkeepers Will Henry of the Bluebirds, and Dartford’s Reice Charles-Cook took centre stage with the Darts’ keeper saving two, and Henry three. That left the impressive Alefe Santos to slot his team through. 

In their meetings in the league, Chippenham had the better of the exchanges. They defeated the Fleet five-two in Wiltshire back in September before claiming a vital point in the return fixture two weeks ago. Joe Hanks scored for the Bluebirds in the first half. 

Elliott Romain levelled five minutes after the break. Will Richards restored the visitors’ lead on the hour mark when heading home from a corner, but Chris Solly slid home a second equaliser with thirteen minutes remaining.

Even though Ebbsfleet finished with seventeen points more than their guests, manager Dennis Kutrieb will know to expect a tight match and that his team will need to be on top of their game.

The winners will travel to Dorking Wanderers with promotion to the National League at stake.

Picture supplied by Dave Budden.