Dagenham & Redbridge assistant manager Darren Currie believes long run in FA Trophy will boost National League promotion hopes

Christian Assombalonga of Dagenham & Redbridge and Tyrone Sterling of Dover Athletic (pic: David Simpson/TGS Photo) ©TGS Photo tgsphoto.co.uk +44 1376 553468

Daggers coach hopes match against Worthing marks start of successful campaign

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Dagenham & Redbridge assistant manager Darren Currie says the club are keen for a run in the FA Trophy this season, knowing it could help the Essex outfit win promotion from the National League.

The Victoria Road side kick off their campaign in the Trophy this weekend at home to Ryman Premier Division club Worthing, for whom Jordan Maguire-Drew played on loan last season.

The Rebels are currently in the lower reaches of their division after winning promotion from the Ryman South last season, while Daggers are in the play-off places in the National League, meaning the hosts will start as heavy favourites to progress.

And though Currie admits Daggers will make changes for the tie with the Sussex club, he knows they are not in a position to make many because of the ongoing injury crisis.

“I would expect the gaffer (John Still) will make one or two changes because some need a rest, they’re running on empty and we have to manage the group with the injuries we’re carrying,” said Currie.

“We’re not in a position to make too many changes, but the season is about momentum and we won at Dover and when you win, you want to play. I would expect, come next weekend, they will all want to be out there anyway!”

Daggers were without eight first-team players for the trip to Dover Athletic on Saturday, but still came back from Kent with a 2-1 victory after goals from Maguire-Drew and Paul Benson.

With so many players missing, the last thing Daggers would want is a replay against Worthing, meaning a midweek trip to the coast to play on a 3G pitch.

But should the sides draw this weekend, any replay would likely take place on Tuesday (December 13), meaning a swift turnaround.

Currie is confident Daggers will make the most of playing at home this weekend, despite having won just one of their last six games at Victoria Road in all competitions.

“We have to make the most of our home game, to take advantage, because we don’t want a replay. We want to get back on track with winning home games and making it a fortress,” he added.

“We also want to continue our good work from the Dover game, so momentum is going to be key.

“We have to keep going in every competition we’re in and get people back fit and make selections for the gaffer even more difficult.”

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