With news the FA has ratified the National League’s proposal for the conclusion of the 2019/20 season; it’s time to get excited for the play-offs.

When the final whistle blew against Chelmsford on the 14th March, nobody knew what was going to happen. Quite rightly football took a back seat as the world changed and the season was suspended.

With clubs voting on the conclusion of the season, it was eventually decided the tables would be compiled on an ‘Unweighted Points Per Game’ basis. This meant Dartford finished 6th and were in the play-offs.

Fans have been frustrated all summer as updates from the National League have been slow but we have recently learnt the games will be broadcast online.

On Sunday, the Darts travel to Arbour Park to take on Slough Town in the National League South Play-Off Eliminator.

Dartford’s game against Chelmsford was perhaps their most complete performance of the season, dominating for ninety minutes, but that was four months ago. Form means nothing now.

Slough will go into the game knowing they have twice defeated Dartford and that should give them confidence. Both games have been tight and won by a single goal.

The squad Steve King has is relatively unchanged with Billy Crook and Mark Smith being the notable players not listed. Goalkeeper Preston Edwards has been brought in for the play-offs.

With no fans at the ground it will be a different experience for the players but expectations remain the same. Manager King will be hoping Dartford can swiftly return to their free flowing best.

A couple of changes to the rules mean five subs will be allowed and a draw after ninety minutes would take the game straight to penalties.

The closer the game gets the more the tension will build and the hope for both teams to prolong their season.

At a time when teams would normally be well into preseason, we are looking forward to an end of season shootout. The winners can prepare for a semi-final away to Havant and Waterlooville on 25th July.