Dartford v Harlow

Dartford will be out to prove last Saturday’s lacklustre showing against Margate was a one-off.

Harlow visit Princes Park this weekend in the first qualifying round of the FA Trophy and manager Tony Burman is demanding his players sharpen up after their derby defeat.

“That wasn’t acceptable and the players have been told,” said Burman. “If they’ve lost a game but had a go and played well, then I’ll back them but, on Saturday, that unfortunately wasn’t to be.

“There’s nobody that will back them more than me but when they perform below par then they don’t deserve it, and they have to take the criticism.

“We’ve got to get back on track and I expect and want a response.”

The two sides have already met in the league, at the end of August at Harlow’s Barrows Farm stadium. Dartford won that game 2-1 thanks to goals from Jamie Coyle and Rob Haworth but Burman knows their opponents cannot be underestimated.

“Since that game they’ve been on a fantastic run of results and haven’t lost too many," he said. "They are a good side and I was impressed with them so we know it’s going to be a difficult game.”

Dartford’s injury problems show little sign of easing. Striker Rob Haworth's injured calf has flared up again and he faces a race to be fit.

Ray Powell went over on his ankle against Margate and is a doubt while Richard Ketchell (ankle) is not ready yet. Nick Barnes (ankle) trained this week and could be included in the squad.