18thnov05

Friday 18th November 2005

Hudson stays loyal to Dartford

The lure of playing at Dartford's new Princes Park stadium next season was the major factor for goalkeeper Kevin Hudson rejecting a move to Ryman League Division One leaders Dover Athletic, writes Stephen McCartney.

Clive Walker put in a seven-day approach for the 38-year-old goalkeeper last week, but with work starting on the Darts' impressive new stadium last Monday, the experienced goalkeeper has decided to remain with the Southern League Division One club - which has delighted his manager Tony Burman.

"Kevin has spoken to Dover and has turned down their approach and wants to stay with Dartford Football Club," Burman revealed to www.dartfordfc.co.uk

"I am, like everybody involved with the club delighted with his decision.

"I would like to point out to one or two supporters that Kevin is not 40 years of age. He is a young 38-year-old and wants to be in goal for the foreseeable future and be part of the team playing next season at the new stadium at Princes Park."

Burman added his praise to his coaching staff Paul Sawyer and Steve Robinson, and said: "Their input on the training ground and in the dressing room has been a major factor in our development so far this season."

The Darts' play two away games this week ahead of their lucrative FA Trophy third and final qualifying round tie against AFC Wimbledon at Stonebridge Road next Saturday.

And Burman has told his players how important these two league fixtures are against sides lower down in the table. He said: "This week we have tried to stress to the players how important the next two games in our league are.

"We must try and get something from both of these games and although the teams we are playing are below us in the league, there is not a massive gap regarding points.

"We must not take anything for granted as these two games will be very tough."

On the injury front, Darren Penfold went for his scan two days ago and should have the results next Monday. Burman added: "Darren has asked me again to thank everyone who has contributed to help pay for his scan."

Meanwhile, Ted Ansell will be making a come back for the reserves tomorrow in their Kent League second division trip to Maidstone United.

Great Wakering Rovers v Dartford
Southern League Division One East
Saturday 19th November 2005
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Burroughs Park, Little Wakering Hall Lane, Great Wakering, Essex SS3 0HH