DARTFORD have welcomed their Dr Martens League Cup first round draw against big-spending newcomers Burgess Hill. The club that romped away with the Sussex County League for the past two seasons and regularly advance to the latter stages of the FA Vase visit Stonebridge Road on the week beginning October 20.

"It's nice to be at home but I know we have a tough tie on our hands," said manager Tommy Sampson. "Burgess Hill simply became too big for the Sussex County League and it was inevitable that they would move on up because they are well run and well financed."

The Darts boss, still stunned by last week's U-turn by Paul Ribbens, who returned to Maidstone after signing for Darts, continued rebuilding attempts this week by opening negotiations with an unnamed centre-back and a left-sided player.

"Talks are ongoing with a number of players and hopefully I'll be able to announce something next week," Sampson said.