by Alex Hoad

Dartford boss Tony Burman has called on everyone associated with the club to enjoy the build-up to the bumper FA Cup first round clash with high-flying League 2 side Port Vale.

Micky Adams’ side are three points off the top of the table, sitting second after one defeat in 11 and a league campaign which has seen them concede just eight goals in 15 games.

The Valiants ended a run of three successive draws by beating promotion-chasing Crewe 2-1 on Saturday, with the winner scored by 10-goal striker Marc Richards before a goalless draw at Burton on Tuesday.

Darts boss Tony Burman said: "On paper we have not got much of a chance but this is the FA Cup and all about what happens on the day. The form guide doesn’t matter.

"I have no doubt that if our players play to their potential and Port Vale maybe have an off-day, we have a chance of causing an upset."

He added: "The message to everyone – staff, players and fans – this week is to enjoy the occasion. It’s been a long time since the club was in this position. We’ll give it our all and see what happens.

"It promises to be a great day with three or four thousand cheering us on."

Burman said his players would have their work cut-out in the club’s first appearance in the first round proper for 21 years.

He said: "We know from playing league sides in pre-season that they are going to be much fitter than us and we’re going to have to work hard.

"We have to give them respect but also have to have a go. If we do that, work hard and get a bit of a break, then who knows?"

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