Home   Dartford   Sport   Article

Dartford FC challenged to respond positively in FA Cup tie at Bromley after 3-0 league defeat at Grimsby Town

Dartford manager Tony Burman Picture: Andy Payton
Dartford manager Tony Burman Picture: Andy Payton

Tony Burman has demanded a "massive response" from his team ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup first round clash with Bromley.

Darts boss Burman was critical of his players after they slumped to a 3-0 defeat at Grimsby in the Vanarama Conference last weekend.

He expects better at Hayes Lane, especially given the potential reward for getting through.

Burman said: "I need a reaction from last week because it was probably our poorest performance of the season.

"This is the FA Cup and you don’t know what’s going to happen next. We want to be in the FA Cup for as long as we can. We’re looking forward to it and want to progress to the next round.

"We know it’s a local derby and we’ve been involved in many of them, so we’re looking forward to the occasion. I want a massive reaction from the previous game."

Only seven league places separate the Kent rivals, with Dartford 21st in non-league’s top tier and Bromley fourth in Vanarama Conference South.

Burman said: "We’re the favourites because we’re in a higher league. I’ve got no problem with that. Bromley are a decent side and we’ve got to go there and perform.

"It’s a game to relish. We wanted to be drawn at home, and we haven’t got that, but I wasn’t looking to go back up the M1. It’s a local derby and there’s great interest in the game.

"I expect the players to be back on the ball this weekend."

Hundreds of Darts fans are expected to make the short trip and they could see Lee Burns involved, the right-back having recovered from his rib injury. Rory McAuley required stitches for a head injury sustained at Grimsby but the centre-half has been passed fit and should continue his partnership with Mat Mitchel-King.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More