I'm here for the long-term, says Burman - EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Tony Burman insists that he’s the man to lead Dartford next season, although their play-off hopes this season are “in the hands of the Gods,” writes Stephen McCartney.

After picking up just one point over the Easter period, the Darts’ play-off dream hangs in the balance despite their 2-1 win at second placed side Hastings United on Saturday.

But Burman, whose side are in sixth place, knows they must win their last two Ryman League Division One South games and pray that Fleet Town slip up.

The fifth placed Hampshire side welcome Ashford Town on Wednesday night - just 48 hours after John Cumberbatch’s men play Bromley in the semi-finals of the Kent Senior Cup.

“All we can do is try and win our last two games and the rest of it is in the hands of the Gods,” Burman said EXCLUSIVELY to www.kentishfootball.co.uk.

“It’s disappointing it’s like that, but at the same time I’d rather go into the last game with everything to play for.”

And Walton Casuals, who beat Dulwich Hamlet at the weekend, could have a big say in who does what at the top of the table.

They travel to Tooting & Mitcham United tomorrow night and visit Princes Park on Saturday before welcoming faltering league leaders Maidstone United on the final day of the season.

“Before (last) Saturday’s game we had to get nine points and that’s what we’ll have to do,” said Burman.

A majority of fans would class not winning promotion this season as a failure, especially as the club attracts four-figure crowds to Princes Park.

“We’ve improved in the total of our points from last year,” explained Burman. “We had 61 last year and we’ve got 67 at the moment, so in that respect we’ve improved.

“We’ve been in the play-off positions all season (so) it will be a big disappointment not to reach at least the play-off’s.  If we don’t make it, it’s because we haven’t performed.”

Burman feels he’s the man to lead the team next season, and without explaining whose coming in or leaving, changes in team personal are imminent.

“We’ll be looking to strengthen the squad, without a shadow of a doubt,” he said.

“There are things in the pipeline regarding players. Nothing has come off yet but I’m sure that there’s going to be a lot of interest in people wanting to join us.

“As far as I’m concerned I want to have a go at it still. I have no urge to throw in the towel or anything and I don’t think my job is finished really.

“I was plan B, everyone knows that, but I’m thoroughly enjoying myself and as long as my fellow directors are happy with me being manager, then I’ll stay.

“I know when I need to go, but I don’t feel I need to go now.

“We’ve got a board meeting tonight and we’ll discuss one or two things, regarding the future and I’m fully committed and so are they.

“I’ve been here for two years so to speak and sometimes it takes a little bit longer than that.

“I think they’ve been two exciting years and it’s been a long time since the club’s had good times.”

Walton Casuals visit Princes Park on Saturday before Burman takes his side to Imber Court to play Metropolitan Police on the last day of the league season seven days later.

Burman, however, will be hoping that their season is extended by another week for the end-of-season play-off lottery.

Visit Dartford’s websites:   www.dartfordfc.co.uk & www.dartfordfootballclub.co.uk/forum