Burman tells his side to get on their bike

DARTFORD boss Tony Burman remains frustrated with the amount of injuries that his side have been picking up this season, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Darts travel to Billericay Town tomorrow aiming to bounce back from their unfortunate FA Cup exit at the hands of robbers Hampton & Richmond Borough last week.

The Beavers completed a smash-and-grab raid to win last weekend’s second qualifying round tie at Princes Park, winning 1-0, courtesy of Barrie Matthews’ 43^rd minute header.

“Injuries to players play a major part during the course of the season and I think it is fair to say we have had a bad time so far this season,” admitted Burman, when speaking to www.dartfordfootballclub.co.uk.

“We have a number of players who are doubtful for tomorrow’s game and may need a late test.”

One of them is target-man Rob Haworth who on his way to training last Monday was involved in an accident and was knocked off his bike. The former Margate man suffered some bumps and bruises and is doubtful for the trip to New Lodge.

Midfielder Nick Barnes has an recurrence of his ankle injury and has been ruled out, full-back Steve Norman goers into hospital next Monday for his hernia operation. Richard Ketchell, meanwhile, could return next week.

However, central midfield rock, Alex O’Brien, completed a full training session last night, which gave the rest of the squad a lift.

Expecting a “tough game” in Essex tomorrow, Burman looks forward to every game in the Ryman Premier League.

“It is very important that we get over the disappointment of going out of the FA Cup last week and carry on improving on our league form in recent weeks,” said Burman.

“I have to say that I am enjoying being involved in the (Ryman) Premier League this season and although results have not quite gone our way at times, the games overall have been a much better standard than previous seasons.

“I feel we have competed and played some excellent football so far and I am sure if we can continue to improve the belief (it) will only make us stronger as the season goes on.”

Article courtesy of www.dartfordfootballclub.co.uk

Visit Dartford's website: www.dartfordfc.co.uk

Billericay Town v Dartford
Ryman Premier League
Saturday 4^th October 2008
Kick Off 3:00pm
At New Lodge, Blunts Wall Road, Billericay, Essex CM12 9SA