Ante raised for second Keeper Wars - EXCLUSIVE

The inaugural event last June was won by VCD Athletic’s teenage pair Daniel Burke and Jack Parkinson - a midfielder - who defeated club colleagues Joe and Alex Hyde - in the final.

Apart from the wet weather, the other disappointment was that many star goalkeepers from Kent’s top club’s didn’t show due to other commitments.

However, Charlton Athletic legend Nicky Johns, who was Erith Town’s assistant a few years back, will be at the Ryman Premier League club for the event, which is once again being organised by Craig Clark and Darts goalkeeping coach John Macrae, 56.

“Nicky Johns is going to present the prizes this year, which are a bit better than last year,” Macrae said EXCLUSIVELY to www.kentishfootball.co.uk tonight.

“A £100 prize for the winners, shared between the pair (is up for grabs). Last year it was £50 between them, so we’ve upped the ante.

“This week I’ve had three Ryman One North keepers (confirm), which I had a chat to last season when we played them. I’ve asked them to come along.”

Star names include John Whitehouse (Dover Athletic); Chris Conneally (Thamesmead Town); Steve Northwood (Maidstone United); Dale Brightly (AFC Hornchurch); Chris Ray (Tilbury); Jake Whincup (Arlesey Town) and Chris Arnold (Tunbridge Wells).

Goalkeepers from Waltham Abbey; Whitstable Town; Holmesdale; VCD Athletic and Sevenoaks Town are also expected to compete.

“I’ve had a word with Laney (Mark Lane) at Whitstable and he’s sending a couple of keepers as well,” added Macrae, who is wanting to hear from any other goalkeeper’s in Kent who want to take part in the strenuous workout.

The event, which kick’s off at 10am, is expected to raise plenty of funds for local charity, DGS Mencap.

“I didn’t realise it was Bank Holiday next weekend,” admitted Macrae. “I could have chosen it better, it’s just getting the facilities down at Dartford.

“We’re doing it for a local charity, which is important. At the end of the day we are a community club and trying to develop ourselves in that respect. It’s a way forward for a club like Dartford to bring in the community and get everyone involved.”

Goalkeepers wishing to enter should telephone John Macrae on 07753 912 905 - mentioning that you read this article on www.kentishfootball.co.uk, who like last year will be covering the event.

Visit Dartford’s websites:  www.dartfordfc.co.uk & www.dartfordfootballclub.co.uk