Dartford manager Ady Pennock pleased with progress of new-look squad in pre-season

It’s a case of so far, so good for Dartford manager Ady Pennock and his new-look squad.

The Darts came through without any injuries from their 6-1 pre-season defeat to League 1 side Charlton at Princes Park on Saturday.

It’s a new-look squad with just three players remaining from last season and Pennock was pleased with what he saw.

“I’m pleased that we came through unscathed,” said the Darts boss. “I thought both halves were very good, it was a great crowd and a great day for Dartford Football Club. I’d like to thank Charlton for bringing such a strong team.

“I’m pleased Charlton came here and we hosted them. Nathan Jones, their manager, was an absolute gentleman and it was an honour to have them here, it’s a great connection to have.

“I’m happy at the moment but there’s a long way to go, we’ve got to gel very quickly. We were a bit quiet, we need to be more vocal but that will come as pre-season goes on.

“I’m not worried about winning or losing, it’s about gelling and bonding, getting the team spirit and playing some good football. We’re in a good position but there’s a long way to go.”

More than 2,000 fans were at Princes Park for the opening pre-season games, and Pennock acknowledged that he needs success on the field to bring the feel-good factor back to Dartford after last season’s relegation.

“It’s a massive challenge and one that I am really looking forward to now,” said Pennock.

“Everyone knows the league we’re going into, clubs have got big budgets but we do it properly and I’m pleased and proud to be here.

“It was so difficult last Saturday, Charlton’s movement was different class. But there was enough there that I saw from us that was good and had me licking my lips.

“We did some good things. You can look at