Last weekend saw Dartford host Cray Valley PM at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Eddie Dsane featured in our matchday programme that afternoon. For those who missed it, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
Eddie Dsane was signed by Ady Pennock in August, following a prolific campaign with Kingstonian FC last season which saw him score 24 goals in fifty appearances. His Dartford debut came against Potters Bar Town, where he came on as a second-half substitute.
The right-footed attacker is equally as comfortable on either flank, or up front. However, the latter seems to be his most threatening position, and he’s netted five goals in 13 appearances for the Darts so far this term. Despite having only scored twice in the league so far this season though, Eddie is in good spirits at the time of our conversation over WhatsApp…
“I’m good thank you Chris, I hope you’re well too?” (I am very well thanks Eddie!)
He continues, “It feels good to be playing for Dartford. The team is strong, and the fans are great. They’re very supportive, even during the rough times, which we’re all so grateful for.”
Yes, the current struggles have been well-documented lately and seem to be the focus of many peoples’ attentions. It’s during these difficult times where the players need everyone’s support more than ever. Yet despite recent results, Eddie and his teammates remain focused and positive.
“Yeah, my(our) ambitions for the season remain the same… to win the league. We have a great squad, and I believe that we’re more than capable of being successful Chris.”
Was the chance of success the reason why Eddie signed for the club?
“To be honest, I spoke to the gaffer, and he explained what he was trying to do with the club and how I’d fit into the team. He told me how it would benefit me, so it was an easy decision in the end. Dartford is a big club, with a nice ground and a great setup. So, I knew it’d be a good club to sign for.”
He continues, “As the season progresses, I just want to do my best for the club. I also want to keep building on my previous season and to score as many goals as possible, and to win trophies if possible. This is always my intention, regardless of what level I’m playing at Chris.”.
Since Eddie has mentioned the level of football, let’s rewind a little. Afterall, the striker has played for several clubs at many different levels. Where did his journey begin?
“I started off at Sunday League level, before signing for Crystal Palace at the age of twelve. I was a part of their Academy for quite a while, and I honestly believe it helped me with the fundamentals of football. Some of the habits I’ve developed came from my time in football academies, such as my ball striking and ball manipulation.”
After spending time with The Eagles, Eddie was signed by Fleetwood Town, before his journey saw him play for the likes of Longford Town, Finn Harps, Chipstead FC, Whyteleafe FC, Maldon & Tiptree, Leatherhead, Hampton & Richmond Borough, Horsham, Margate, and of course Kingstonian FC.
“Yes, I was a professional player for a few years. I spent a year with Fleetwood Town and two years in the Irish Premier League. The best thing about being professional, is playing football every day. That’s something that I do miss the most to be honest.”
He continues, “A younger me would’ve thought I’d be playing at a higher level by now. If I could change anything Chris, I’d apply myself a bit more, and value my time in full-time football more.”
That being said, things happen for a reason. And, with Eddie being in part-time football today, he’s able to work outside of the game and help others. He currently works as a behaviour mentor, and is also studying to be a Financial Advisor, specialising in Protection. How does he balance his working life with the beautiful game, as well as managing his diet, fitness, and general well-being?
“Balancing everything is quite easy for me Chris. I finish work relatively early in the day, so I have plenty of time to get my gym stuff done. I do go to the gym a lot, and I also like to play a lot of sports outside of football in my spare time. I play quite a lot of tennis, squash, and table tennis. So, that helps me to stay active when I’m not playing football.”
Considering his busy life, it comes as no surprise that our conversation has come to an end, as Eddie’s commitments need his attention. But before he goes, does he have any words for the Dartford faithful?
“Yes, I do Chris… So far, the fans have been great, even when results haven’t gone our way recently. I’d just like to say, please stick with us, as we have a new squad. Once we click, I think we can have a great season. So, please stick with us.”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
Faith.
Favourite Food?
Jollof Rice.
Favourite Drink?
Supermalt.
TV Series or Film?
TV Series.
Music or Podcast?
Music.
Sporting Hero?
Thierry Henry/Lionel Messi.
Non-Sporting Hero?
My Dad.
Do you follow any other sports besides football?
Tennis.
Biggest influence in the dressing room?
Tyler Christian-Law.
What football players, past or present, would make up your dream five-a-side team?
Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)
Sergio Ramos (ex-Real Madrid)
Sergio Busquets (ex-Barcelona)
Neymar (Al-Hilal)
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
By Chris Palmer