News

Shrewd football followers who like to add spice to their season by having the odd punt may want to look closely at last season's Ryman One League champions Dover Athletic.

The bookies have made the Whites 6-1 joint favourites with Surrey side, Sutton United.

Andy Hessenthaler who led Dover to the Ryman Division One title in his first season at the helm, is expected to enhance his managerial reputation this season.

The team which twice experienced the agony of defeat in the Division One play-offs over the previous two seasons, finished a massive 12 points ahead of Tooting and Mitcham.

Hessenthaler has the backing of an ambitious board and has been able to add considerable quality to the Dover ranks.

Ex Crystal Palace winger Jerahl Hughes, former Reading striker Nathan Bailey and Sammy Moore, who was on loan at Brentford last season, are among their talented newcomers, with chairman Jim Parmenter promising there is more money in the pot if needs be.

So whether you like a flutter or not, it promises to be an interesting season for newly promoted Dover Athletic.