Grit, unity and belief win a place in step two for Athletic

DOVER Athletic capped off a resilient season with a commanding 2-0 victory over Dartford in the Isthmian League Premier Division play-off final, earning their return to the National League South after just a single season away.

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On a blustery afternoon, Jake Leberl’s men absorbed early pressure before asserting dominance in the second half, with goals from Ruben Soares-Junior and Alfie Matthews sealing the deal in front of a raucous travelling support.

Dartford opened with intensity and intent, spurred on by a passionate Princes Park crowd.

Within the opening minutes, they forced a series of corners and freekicks, targeting Dover's aerial vulnerability.

George Whitefield headed over from an early corner, and Callum Jones combined effectively with Olly Box, causing the Dover defence some early jitters.

Dover, meanwhile, took time to settle. Their first real foray came via Luke Baptiste, whose darting run behind the Dartford backline in the 17th minute drew a professional foul from Whitefield. The referee brandished only a yellow, to the fury of Dover players and fans alike.