Darts seal groundshare deal with Lions

Wednesday 27th May 2009

DARTFORD have today unveiled a groundsharing agreement with local Coca-Cola League One outfit Millwall, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Lions, who just missed out on promotion after losing a five-goal play-off final thriller to Scunthorpe United at Wembley Stadium, have secured a groundsharing agreement with the Ryman Premier League club.

As part of the deal that will see the south London club's reserve side play at Princes Park next season, the Lions will face the Darts in a pre-season friendly at Princes Park on Tuesday, 28th July.

"Millwall is a great club with a growing reputation for supporting football in the community and they were attracted by our fantastic facilities at Princes Park, said Darts co-chairman Bill Archer in a statement.

"In turn, we were impressed by their willingness to work with us to improve aspects of our business on and off the pitch.

"I think Millwall recognised that we are a growing club with a great set-up and their signing of former Dartford favourite Dave Martin (from Crystal Palace) shows that we are serious about finding and developing talent.

"That fits perfectly with their own ambitions. The relationship we have forged is a true partnership that will benefit both clubs. I really look forward to working with them."

Millwall have confirmed that reserve team games will kick off at 7pm and managing director Andy Ambler is delighted to have secured a groundsharing deal at one of Kent's best footballing venues.

"We are delighted to have agreed this tie-up between the two clubs," he said.

"This is a great opportunity to reach out to our supporters in Kent and the south east to see our reserve games.

"I would like to thank Bill Archer and all at Dartford for their help and we look forward to a good relationship."

Meanwhile, former Dartford winger Martin has impressed Millwall so much that he is NOT one of ten players to be shown the door by the Lions today.

Millwall have also confirmed that they have signed prolific striker Steve Morrison from Blue Square Premier club Stevenage Borough, a player that scored at Wembley Stadium in the Herfordshire club's 2-0 FA Trophy Final win over York City.

Quotes courtesy of Millwall's website: www.millwallfc.co.uk

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