DARTFORD manager Tony Burman is not concerned about the dreaded ‘second seasonitus’ striking his side as they prepare for another campaign in the Conference.

Burman’s side finished their debut campaign eighth in non-league’s top tier, the highest part-time club in the country.

But although some pundits are predicting the Darts will struggle to replicate last season’s success, the manager is confident his team can build on their achievements.

Burman explained: “I am not concerned about a second season syndrome.

“We are looking forward to the season and doing as well as we can.

“We would all like to do even better than the previous season.

“If we could improve on eighth then it would be a fantastic campaign for us, although we also have to be realistic.”

The Darts struggled at times last season for goals, but have added to their frontline with the signings of Jason Prior and Adam Birchill, the latter joining on loan from Gillingham until Christmas.

Manager Burman is delighted with the acquisitions and is hoping they can form a strong partnership.

He explained: “They have both played in the Football League and are both goal scorers, as well as good players.

“We also have Danny Harris and Nathan Collier who can also play up there, so we are strong going forward.”

Dartford kick-off their league campaign this Saturday at home to Alfreton Town and the manager has backed the supporters to help the team maintain their fine home form from last season.

“It is very important to pick up points at home and the fans can help play a major part in that,” the gaffer said.

Burman is, however, predicting a tough game against another one of the league’s part-time outfits.

The boss explained: “The start of the season is always a special day and I am expecting a very difficult game.

“Alfreton have signed some good experienced players.

“Whoever we play will be tough and we have to deal with that.”

Burman is not concerned about a gap between the league’s full-time and part-time clubs getting even wider.

“It doesn’t worry me,” he said “All of the part-time clubs are underdogs but we will endeavour to do the best we can.

“The Conference is where we want to be.”

Meanwhile, Dartford have signed former Southend United midfielder Alex Woodyard in time for Saturday's opening game with Alfreton, which kicks-off at Princes Park at 3pm.

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