Friendship will be put on hold for at least 90 minutes when Tony Burman and Andy Hessenthaler plot each other’s downfall in the FA Trophy third qualifying round tie between Dover and Dartford at Crabble on Saturday.

The pair were team-mates when the Darts reached the semi-finals in 1987 – before going out to beaten finalists Burton – and have remained good pals ever since.

Darts boss Burman said: "We have kept in touch and speak regularly on the phone.

"We will be doing our best to beat each other but I’m sure we will have a good chat over a pint once the game is over.

"It’s a massive game for both clubs. Dover are a good side and Hessy has done a fantastic job getting two promotions. I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before he is managing in the Football League again."

Five defeats in their last six games, including four in a row at home, is Dover’s worst run since he took over and Burman admits his main priority is still to win the Ryman League, Premier Division. He added: "We will field our strongest team at Dover and if any player is less than 100 per cent fit they won’t play. We have a league game against Tooting (on Tuesday) which is important."

Adam Flanagan is ruled out through suspension while James White (hamstring) and Allan Tait (calf) are doubtful.