After two successive defeats on the road, the Peacocks will be all out to claim their first win of the National League South season when they welcome Dartford to the Cygnet Health Care Stadium tomorrow afternoon (20th August), ko 3.00pm.
Three games into their first season at Step 2 and Town lie in 21st place in the table, having so far just gained the single point against Welling United on the opening day which has been followed by two 1-0 reverses at Concord Rangers last weekend and then at Farnborough in midweek. Those three matches have clearly amplified the thin line between success and failure at this level and whilst the Peacocks have only conceded twice in three games, one of which was a penalty, they have yet to register a goal in their new environment which they will aiming to address tomorrow.
It will be a tough assignment though against a side touted as one of the title favourites. The Darts who currently sit in 6th spot began the season with two consecutive victories, an impressive 2-0 win at Bath City being followed by a 2-1 home success over Cheshunt. However, despite a first goal for summer signing from Crawley Town Davide Rodari, they suffered their first defeat on Tuesday night when much-fancied Havant & Waterlooville secured a 2-1 win at Princes Park. The Kent outfit will therefore be eager to bounce back when they make their first ever appearance at the Cygnet tomorrow, having travelled down to Somerset today.
The Peacocks are likely to select from the same squad as the midweek game at Farnborough although Zac Smith is now fit and available after not featuring in any of the three matches so far. Head of Football Rob Dray said:” Another massive game tomorrow against a full time side with one of the most successful management teams in the League. This is where we wanted to be, and no-one said it was going to be easy. After six years of consistently winning, getting into the National League is a massive feat for the club and it has taken a huge undertaking on and off the pitch. Levels and standards are what I preach and that is what has got us there. The last three games have been all about fine margins; efficiency, personal errors, and luck at the end of it all. That’s the National League and it’s called that for a reason but we have competed so well in and out of possession and to the supporters who have watched the last two away games I salute you as you have seen us play well and get beaten twice, but consistent habits, enthusiasm and hard work will get us where we want the club to be starting tomorrow.”
Matchday Information
Turnstiles, Bar, Club Shop and Refreshment Outlets open at 1.00pm
Admission is payable by card or cash at the turnstile only, priced at £12 for Adults, £10 for Concessions and £5 for Juniors (14-17 years). Under 14’s are free on condition they are accompanied by an adult. Unaccompanied Under 14’s will not be admitted.
Refreshments available tomorrow are Burger Van, Burrito Bus and Coffee Blue
Match Programme is online only and can be read HERE
For supporters unable to attend, live commentary on the game can be listened to on Mixlr HERE
We extend our grateful thanks to tomorrow’s Match Sponsor The Winchester Arms, Trull
We welcome our Matchday Mascot tomorrow but it’s a surprise for the person so no names!