Manager Ady Pennock says collective responsibility at Dartford will be key to success in Isthmian Premier as good vibes return to Princes Park

Manager Ady Pennock believes he’s bringing the feel-good factor back to Dartford.

A new-look Darts squad starts life in Isthmian Premier at near-neighbours Cray Valley this Saturday.

While Pennock refuses to set any targets in what is sure to be a competitive division, the fresh start has undoubtedly given new optimism across the club.

“I did a Q&A with the supporters last Friday, it was a good evening and there was a good feel about the place,” said Pennock.

“We’ll only go places if we’re all together, that’s from top to bottom - supporters, chairman, directors, tea lady - everyone has to sing off the same hymn sheet and that’s what we’re doing at the moment. It’s so important that we do that.

“We’ve got to rebuild. The first team is the most important team at any football club in the world. If you get that wrong then everything else goes wrong, but if you get it right then everything else snowballs.

“It’s been a busy summer for me but I’ve really enjoyed it. It’s going to be tough as there are some very good teams in this league.

“Some people think it’s going to be a walkover and I’ve heard people say we’re going to be one of the favourites, but there’s some big hitters in there. I’m really looking forward to it as there’s a buzz about the place.

“I’m not someone who is going to shout from the rooftops and say we’re going to do this or that, we’re going to take it one game at a time.”

Pennock is pleased with his squad’s fitness - one key area that let Dartford down last term - but it’s the team spirit and the improvement in their performances that has impressed him most during pre-season.

“I’m really pleased with pre-season,” reflected the Dartford boss. “The biggest thing for me was just to gel the players with a