Dartford have sacked manager Alan Dowson after a poor run of results.

The Darts sit 16th in National League South – seven points from the play-offs and 10 points above the relegation zone with 34 points from 27 matches.

They’ve won just one of their last seven matches – at neighbours Welling on Boxing Day – and have dropped a staggering 21 points from winning positions, including Dowson’s last game in charge, a 2-1 loss at Maidstone on Tuesday night.

A statement from Dartford said: “Our current league is competitive and unforgiving. Sometimes results simply don’t reflect the amount of effort and goodwill that individuals put in to secure success. However, one thing we all know about sport is that results matter and part of being custodians of a club like Dartford is the need to always reflect on what’s best for the future.

“Dowse’s arrival at Princes Park was widely welcomed by the DFC family and we all looked forward to a period of success on-and-off the field. No one can question the enthusiasm and commitment of Dowse and his wider management team. They are passionate football people through-and-through and on a personal level it has been a pleasure to work with every single one of them.

“However, we have to accept that the results have not been forthcoming and the board has a responsibility to make decisions to focus on progression.

“The board has taken the difficult decision to relieve Dowse of his managerial responsibilities for the men’s senior team at Princes Park and Tony Burman will take temporary control until a new manager is appointed.

“It should go without saying that we thank Dowse and his team for their efforts and wish them all well in whatever they pursue next in football. They will always be welcome guests at Princes Park.”

Dowson was appointed at the end of May 2022 to replace Steve King. He guided the Darts to second in his only full season in charge, finishing 20 points behind runaway champions Ebbsfleet. They were knocked out of the play-offs 5-3 in a penalty shoot-out by St Albans after a 1-1 draw.

Dartford’s next game is a trip to Truro on Tuesday night.