Brentwood are back on the road this weekend, and it’s a tough match away at Princes Park to take on play-off rivals Dartford. The Darts sit directly below the Blues, so a win is pivotal for both teams to maintain their push for a play-off place.
The Blues
Brentwood come into this fixture determined to bounce back and reignite their push for the play-offs. While results haven’t gone their way in recent weeks, a positive performance here could quickly put them back on track. Their last outing at home proved a stern test against Dulwich Hamlet, but there were encouraging spells despite the scoreline.
The Blues were unfortunate not to find the breakthrough against Hamlet, who struck twice after the break through David Smith, with goals in the 55th and 71st minutes. Brentwood battled throughout and will take lessons from that contest into this match.
Earlier in the season, Brentwood surged into the play-off places on the back of their attacking quality and free-scoring form. Reconnecting with that cutting edge will be key, and getting the ball into their dangerous forward players could make all the difference as they look to return to winning ways.
The Darts
Dartford also come into this match off a loss, however, they have won three of their last five, after struggling for form early in the season. They have won three less games than the Blues, but have lost less, drawing on eight occasions.
Their last match was away at Burgess Hill Town, and George Vorster bagged a brace for the hosts. Just 20 minutes in he scored from the spot, and grabbed his second in the 52nd minute. Sandwiched in between was Denzelle Olopade’s effort for Dartford, which saw them lose 2-1, with the Hillians seeing red.
One to watch is Olopade who has two goals in two games, in superb form, however, top scorer for Dartford is Olly Box who has 12 in the league this season. He will be a big challenge for the Blues defence to keep quiet.
Final Word
This should be a superb match between two teams fighting right at the top of the table. They have had differing fates this campaign, Brentwood starting electrically but struggling as of late, Dartford with the better form. Keith Rowland’s side will be desperate for the win to push themselves further into the play-off positions.
Words by Matthew Trevelyan
