Cray Valley 1 Dartford 2 match report: Callum Jones and Denzelle Olopade score in Isthmian Premier win at 10-man Cray Valley

Dartford started life in Isthmian Premier with three points - but they were made to work hard for their victory by 10-man Cray Valley on Saturday.

The Darts dominated the first half but were pegged back once Cray had a player sent-off, only for a stunning winner to ensure the Darts took the spoils.

There were six debutants in the Dartford line-up, including newly-signed right-back Sam Okoye, who impressed in pre-season.

There was nearly a dream start inside the first 20 seconds when front pair Olly Box and Callum Jones combined. The former laid the ball off before being clattered, referee Kane Dempster played a good advantage and Jones’ shot went narrowly wide of the post.

It was a bright start by Dartford, particularly Jones who was a constant threat throughout. Box headed Jones’ eighth-minute cross inches over and then a swift counter attack saw Jones and Box again link up. The ball perfectly for Jones, who showed composure to take his time before keeper Max Ovenden made an excellent save with his outstretched leg to deny him.

Cray’s Hassan Ibrahiym was booked for a foul on Okoye, who looked promising pushing forward, before skipper Josh Hill headed wide from a corner.

Dartford’s pressure was finally rewarded on 28 minutes when Box did brilliantly to create space down the left and cross for Jones, who pinned his marker before firing home on the turn to put the visitors ahead.

It was nearly 2-0 five minutes before the break when talented youngster Jeremiah Pinder’s first touch from a deep Jones cross was outstanding, he beat his man and then shot wide when his build-up play deserved a goal.

But one goal is always a slender lead and Cray remained in the contest. Hill conceded possession just before the break inside his