by Martin Jefferies

Carl Rook's brace ensured Dartford booked their place in the draw for the first round of the FA Trophy at the expense of near-neighbours Thurrock on Saturday.

The striker, who joined the club at the start of the year, scored his first of the afternoon in the 16th minute, before finding the net again in the second half.

The Darts made the short trip through the Dartford Tunnel on the back of two heavy defeats to Dorchester Town and Port Vale, and after shipping eight in their last two games, Tony Burman's defence will have been glad to keep a clean sheet.

Dartford's first goal came from a Ryan Hayes cross that was headed down by Danny Harris and tucked away by Rook from close range.

Lee Burns could have made it two but his flick on from Hayes' free kick was narrowly kept out.

Tom Bonner almost made the scoresheet after the break when another Hayes free kick was deflected into his path, and the Darts squandered a golden opportunity while three on one with the Thurrock keeper.

However, a second goal proved to be within the visitors' reach. Elliot Bradbrook's header was controlled by Harris, who released Rook to finish with his left foot.

Dartford, who earn a valuable £4,000 for reaching the first round of the FA Trophy, find out who they play next in the competition when the draw is made on Monday lunchtime.