Sawyer expects real examination against League neighbours

PAUL SAWYER has warned Dartford fans to expect a gulf in class when Charlton Athletic visit Princes Park on Tuesday night, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Addicks are in Spain for a pre-season tour, following their 6-0 win at Ebbsfleet United at the weekend.

But if the Darts can expect some respite against the Coca-Cola Championship club’s reserve side, then they could be in for a rude awakening.

A 9-0 win at Braintree Town, a side that play in the Blue Square South, one division higher than the Darts, has the assistant manager expecting the same sort of punishment.

Fear not, however. Despite suffering at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur (3-7) and Crystal Palace (0-3) last summer, Dartford went on to clinch the Ryman League Division One North title.

“I notice their reserves won 9-0 at Braintree, so it don’t really matter too much,” Sawyer told www.kentishfootball.co.uk today.

“We played Tottenham last year and at that stage there wasn’t any first team regulars in that team.

“They came down and they were all hungry young pro’s and were as good a team that I’ve seen in those type of games, so we’re expecting a tough game tomorrow night.”

The Ryman Premier League newcomers have had only three training sessions before their opening test.

Co-chairman Mr David Skinner said at 6:40pm tonight that the club have sold at least 1,500 tickets for the showpiece friendly.

And fans from both clubs can still purchase tickets from the club shop at Princes Park leading up to the 7:45pm kick-off.

Tickets are priced at £10 (adults), £5 (concessions) and £1 (kids) as the north Kent club look set to break the 2,000 barrier.

The game gives a chance for Dartford supporters to see the club’s new five summer signings in action for the very first time.

Lee Noble and Danny Dafter arrive from Brentwood Town, who both impressed Darts boss Tony Burman whilst playing in Ryman League Division One North last term, as did Redbridge winger Steve Butterworth.

Two familiar players arrive from Kent clubs, the versatile Ray Powell, who can play as a right-back or striker, who arrives from Tonbridge Angels and big target-man Rob Haworth, arrives from another Ryman Premier League side, Margate.

The Darts have two players on trial, who are also expected to feature against Charlton Athletic, James White (Great Wakering Rovers) and Richard Ketchel (Brentwood Town).

“I imagine we’ll be choosing from about twenty players on Tuesday,” said Sawyer.

“Most players will play half the game, some will play a little bit more.

“But we’re just looking to get as many players on the pitch and get them back into the swing of playing again.”

Sawyer doesn’t expect Dartford to defeat Charlton Athletic or Crystal Palace, who visit on Friday night.

He said: “We’ve got to be realistic. We obviously know these teams train daily and are League’s above us.

“For us, it’s nice to play against those types of teams, a good experience for the lads.

“It’s the first stage of pre-season really,” said Sawyer. “We’ve had the initial first few sessions and are gradually getting back on the pitch and gradually getting our fitness.”

Sawyer, however, admitted his part-timers will be used to playing in front of big crowds - Dartford are the best supported non-league football club in Kent.

“We’re fortunate enough to get big crowds most weeks in League games or friendlies,” said the Darts stalwart.

“For a players’ point of view, it gives them an opportunity to show the fans what they’re capable of.

“Players enjoy playing at Princes Park because of the atmosphere and the pitch is in good condition.”

Meanwhile, Premier League referee Mr Steve Bennett will be in the middle against Charlton Athletic on Tuesday, while Ian Cooper takes charge against the Eagles - both games being covered by www.kentishfootball.co.uk.

The Ryman League have confirmed that their fixture lists will be published on www.isthmian.co.uk at 9am on Tuesday morning.

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

Dartford v Charlton Athletic
Pre-Season Friendly
Tuesday 15^th July 2008
Kick Off 7:45pm
At Princes Park Stadium, Grassbanks, Darenth Road, Dartford, Kent DA1 1RT