After winning 15 matches on the bounce, the girls were facing their closest rivals away from home – knowing a draw was all that was needed to be champions.
And the girls got the point that ensured they will now take home the silverware – and in some style.
This is the first year Dartford has had a Girls’ Academy, overseen by Sporting Director Tony Burman and managers George Kingdon and Dan Groves.
A new intake of scholars will join the club each year, educated at the club and replicating the boys’ academy while offering a pathway to the women’s first team as they progress.
This week, their league match was played in windy conditions, with hailstones just before kick-off.
The team knew the pressure was off as Oaklands had to come at them needing the win. Darts had to defend for large periods of the first half, but did their jobs well ensuring the Oaklands’ chances were limited. The team had a few set-piece chances of their own, with the crossbar preventing them from going ahead twice.
It was 0-0 at half time, with the message from management to go out and play the same way.
Oaklands came out firing, creating a chance that was swept up well. The game then became stretched but the Darts girls held strong, despite many of their opposition a few years older.
The full-time whistle blew with the girls celebrating their historic title in the dressing room afterwards.
They have two matches left and will look to get maximum points and finish the season in style.
George said: “We defended so well. It showed how much we have matured as a team. The level and quality in the squad is amazing and I couldn’t be more proud of them. They deserved to win the title, they have been fantastic all season.”
Congratulations girls from all at DFC!
Photos to follow
COYD