Early start for Kentish clash

The Kent derby between Dartford and Sittingbourne on Saturday has been brought forward to a 1pm kick-off, writes Stephen McCartney.

Tom Carney, from Dartford Borough Council, explained why the third first team game at the new stadium will not be kicking off at the usual time.

“Princes Park’s floodlights are as good as any in the league,” he told www.dartfordfootballclub.co.uk.

“But we had some feedback from referees and players on opening day that they weren’t spreading light evenly over the pitch and needed some adjustment.

“Similar comments were received after our first evening fixture and we began a process of re-adjustment and testing to get the lights right before playing without daylight again.

“Although the cub expects that they will be operating to everyone’s satisfaction before Saturday, it’s a sensible precaution to move the match forward by two hours.”

He added: “Princes Park is a brand new venue with lots of new equipment and facilities.

“It’s crucial to us, and the Ryman League, that the Stadium keeps its reputation as a top quality venue and we want everything to be perfect.

“The club has agreed with the Ryman League that a 1pm kick-off is the right thing to do.”

Visit club websites:

www.dartfordfc.co.uk & www.dartfordfootballclub.co.uk

www.sittingbournefc.co.uk

Dartford v Sittingbourne
Ryman League Division One South
Saturday 25^th November 2006
Kick Off 1:00pm
At Princes Park Stadium, Grassbanks, Darenth Road, Dartford, Kent DA1 1RT