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New Dartford manager Ady Pennock already knows the vibes from the Princes Park terraces after watching games alongside fans

05:00, 08 March 2024

New Dartford boss Ady Pennock has got the inside track on the club from their own supporters.

Pennock revealed that he’s spent time on the terraces alongside Dartford fans in recent weeks as he’s got a feel for the club.

Ady Pennock has praised the atmosphere generated by the Dartford faithful. Picture: Martin Apps
Ady Pennock has praised the atmosphere generated by the Dartford faithful. Picture: Martin Apps

“I agreed with everything they said!” joked Pennock. “Seriously, when I’ve been coming to games, I’ve stood with the supporters behind the goal a few times and listened to them as well.

“They’re hungry for success, they want us to change and I want them to get behind the players for the next 11 games.

“I didn’t do it every game but I put my hat on and just stood near them and listened in. They’re knowledgeable and passionate.”

Pennock was also impressed with their support of the team and the atmosphere they generated when the Darts took the lead against Aveley last week at Princes Park.

“The last home game against Aveley, the noise when we got the goal to go ahead was fantastic,” he recalled.

“There was a young man blowing his horn, the flag waving, and then when we scored the first goal I thought ‘yeah I want a bit of this’ with the noise they made.

“When we turn the club around the fans will come flocking back, I know they will. They are going to be so important to us now as well, there will be times in games when there’s a little lull and that’s when we need them more than anything.

“It’s all right when you’re winning 3-0 or 4-0 but from the first minute to the 95th or 96th minute these days, we need them. I’m desperate to do well for them as well as the club in general.”

It’s certainly a baptism of fire for Pennock as he starts his Princes Park tenure with trips to Torquay on Saturday and Braintree on Tuesday before hosting Maidstone the following weekend in what will be his first home match.

“I can’t wait for Saturday away to Torquay,” stated Pennock. “These games are what we’re involved in football for. I’ve been involved in winning championships and battling relegation, and I love that pressure.

“I wouldn’t be in football otherwise. I know people might think I’m silly but that’s what management is all about.”

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