Paul Doswell is confident Sutton United can pick up the points at Dartford this weekend, despite an injury list that keeps on growing.

United followed Saturday’s National South opening day 2-0 defeat at home to Maidstone United with a 2-0 win at Havant & Waterlooville on Tuesday night.

The three points came at a price however as Craig McCallister and Simon Downer limped off with ankle and knee injuries respectively, joining Kevin Amankwaah on the treatment table.

Dan Fitchett hit the opening goal in Hampshire, and Jamie Collins headed home the second – even though he had only turned up to watch the match.

Doswell said: “Craig and Simon will be out for about two weeks, and Kevin should be back this weekend.

“Jamie was not really fit and was only down to watch the match.

“I asked him if he fancied being on the bench, and he comes on and scores.

“Ross [Stearn] only declared himself fit 15 minutes before the game, and he came on too.”

He added: “We’re in a better position than last season, not only because we won, but the injuries are not long-term issues like last season.”

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Jamie Collins came off the bench to score United's second goal

Doswell has sent Louis John to Met Police to get much-needed game time, and the central defender featured in Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Slough Town.

Dartford, relegated from the National Premier last season, opened their campaign with defeat at Hemel Hempstead, and a win over Eastbourne Borough.

Doswell said: “Dartford are a good Conference South side, and they only struggled in the Premier because they did not have the budget.

“They have great players like Lee Noble, Ryan Hayes and Tom Bradbrook, but I believe if we put in the same work-rate and effort we will get the points.”

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Thank you and good night: Paul Doswell gives the thumbs up to the travelling United army