DARTFORD manager Tony Burman was overjoyed after his side defeated Welling in the play-off final to secure promotion to the Conference yesterday.

The 1-0 win over the Wings elevates the Darts to the fifth tier of English football, a prospect the manager is fully looking forward to.

Having spent the vast majority of the campaign breathing down the necks of eventual champions Woking, Burman feels the club’s success is well earned.

He said: “This feels absolutely brilliant.

“I am so pleased for the players, the fans and everyone associated with the club.

“We have thoroughly deserved to be promoted over the course of the 42 games this season.”

The Darts triumphed in an understandably nervy encounter, which was ultimately settled after three minutes.

News Shopper: Tony Burman and his bench on the final whistle

Lee Noble’s rocket of a strike blistered past Craig Holloway in the Wings net in what could be described as the only real talking point of the match.

The home side had clearly studied their opponents and Burman believes taking the game to them in the early stages was key to Dartford’s success.

News Shopper: Burman and the Darts coaching staff get their hands on the trophy

“We knew Welling would be a very difficult side to play against,” he explained.

“Our great start in the game helped to settle us down and probably stopped Welling from settling down themselves.

“I think in the second half we were terrific and looked a very fit side.

“Our fitness told in the end and as the match progressed I felt we should have increased our lead.”

Princes Park was filled by 4,088 fans and both sets of supporters had good reason to believe they would emerge victorious going into the final.

Both had been involved in the promotion race all season and having overcome difficult opponents in the semi-finals, Dartford defeating Basingstoke and Welling overcoming Sutton, a tight and tense affair was always on the cards.

News Shopper: A momemnt to remember for the boss

Burman was understandably basking in the glory of the moment after yesterday’s win, one he described as his best in football.

He added: “Now is not the time to speak about next season’s prospects.

“I will probably do that later in the week, but for now I just want to enjoy this moment.

News Shopper: The team are handed the trophy

“This is the best achievement of my career, hands down.

“There is a great feeling that comes with promotion and the higher you get, the better it feels.

“I am truly delighted for everybody involved with Dartford Football Club.”

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