Dagenham head to Forest Green on Sunday afternoon in the play-off semi final second leg with the tie finely poised at 1-1. Thursday's match couldn't find a winner, meaning that whoever triumphs at New Lawn will be going to Wembley. In essence, both team's entire season hinges on tomorrow. That is how massive it is.
So obviously, FGR have home advantage, and will want to use it well. They are expecting a crowd of over 2000, while Daggers are likely to bring more than 300. It will be a highly tense atmosphere with both teams backed vocally. However, Dagenham will take solace from their excellent away form, which is the best in the division. The Daggers have also recorded the most away goals, so will have no fears heading into the game. John Still has said we are just going to go for it. These sides have now met three times since last August and all three have been even affairs separated by just one goal. Dagenham have the edge, having won one and drawn two, but this is Forest Green's third successive season in the playoffs, and they will be praying it is third time lucky as they look to end 19 long years in non-league. I remember the first meeting well. It was October, and Mum and I went to the New Lawn with, prior to kick-off, Dagenham sitting 2nd and their hosts sitting 1st. This was when FGR were top by miles, until they eventually succumbed that lead to Lincoln, who never let it go from that point. Anyway, Dagenham were second best from most of that game, but emerged with a 1-1 draw, as Hawkins scored a late header. The second meeting was also entertaining, coming just two months ago at Victoria Road. Dagenham dominated but, as was the case on Thursday too, couldn't find a goal. That was, until, Maguire-Drew popped up in the second half. However, Christian Doidge scored against his old club, and it looked as if we would have to settle for a point. But Scott Doe had other ideas, scoring with three minutes left to spark jubilant scenes. But on Thursday, we missed our chance and I can't imagine Forest Green will play anywhere near as bad as they did. However, we should have Williams and Guttridge back, so we are capable of playing better too. Tranmere Rovers have already booked their place in the final, but who will join them? It's Forest Green v Dagenham. Mark Cooper v John Still. Green and Black v Red and Blue. Everything rides on tomorrow. We are one team, we are Daggers. Winner takes all.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
WRITERArchives
May 2024
|