TODAY'S MATCH PREVIEW – DOVER ATHLETIC (HOME) KO 3.00 PM

24.07.10

So despite failing to boil the Lobsters in their first pre-season match, the Hamlet move on to their next game, this time facing Kent coast colossus Dover Athletic, who, under new manager Martin Hayes, are beginning to fine tune their side with a few transfers, as Hayes looks to stamp his mark on his new club.

Conference South side Athletic, who are bookies' favourites to win the league this season, travel to face the Hamlet with new boss Hayes hoping to begin the task of forming his first choice XI. The Dover supremo is happy with performances so far, but says he is yet to complete his squad building process.

Speaking to YourCanterbury he said, "I'm pleased with the way we are progressing and we now need to work on being a bit more clinical in front of goal. We've got games coming up this weekend and beyond which should be a great test for us."

Dover have begun their summer fixtures in typically strong form, dispatching fellow Kent outfits Faversham and Maidstone 4-1 and 1-0 respectively. Colchester United are the only team to have caused a hiccup in Athletic's schedule, as Hayes's men succumbed to the League One outfit 2-0.

Controversy, however, has been the summer dish served at the Crabble in recent months, after brow-raising drama involving Andy Hessanthaler, his brief successor at Dover, Ian Hendon and their arguably roguish shenanigans that lead to both men skipping merrily off to Gillingham, leaving Dover in an unfamiliar state of insecurity and bewilderment.

However, order has emerged from chaos and former Arsenal winger Martin Hayes has taken over and begun to build a unit that is hopeful of bettering Hessanthaler's promotion efforts last season. Ironically, Hayes's first cornerstone has been laid with the signing of ex-Dulwich youth team striker Ben Hunt, who was unfortunately released by Bristol Rovers at the end of last season. Along with Hunt, ex-Welling midfielder Sam Cutler and former Bromley defender Rob Gillman have joined the Whites' ranks, while centre half Dean Hill has committed his future to the club by signing a contract extension. Meanwhile, other trialists such as Luke l'Anson, Elliot Charles and Anthony Jack are desperately trying to convince Hayes they deserve to fill the boots of the departed Frannie Collin & Co.

Dulwich will be seeking their first win of the summer, after Sol Pinnock's dexterous strike and trialist Sulaiman Bangura's header were not enough to overcome a respectable Redhill performance.

The Hamlet's high profile pre-season signing Fiston Manuella is likely to make his first start in a Dulwich shirt against Dover Athletic today, after missing the first pre-season match against Redhill. Manager Gavin Rose said, "Manuella has had a bad bout of food poisoning, but should be available for the Dover game."

The hunt for a goalkeeper may show its results today, after Rob O'Hara boomeranged back to Whyteleafe. Dave Moore and Bangura are expected to feature today, as both performed well against Redhill.

Kick off is at 3pm at Champion Hill. Admission £6 for adults and £2 concessions. Dulwich Hamlet Season Ticket Holders please note this game IS included in your season ticket.

© Richard Caldecourt