The Hoops’ clash with Tunbridge Wells is a noteworthy occasion because it marks the 60th season that the two clubs have met in league competition since World War Two, which is believed to be a record between any two senior Kent clubs.
The clubs first met back in the old Kent League in the 1950-51 season and continued to do so for the next eight seasons.
The Hoops next met up with Wells for three consecutive seasons from 1963 to 1966 when they were both playing in the Southern League before Deal switched to the Greater London League.
But in 1971 the Hoops returned to the Kent League and in the 47 years since they have played Wells every season, and so today’s game brings up the 60-year anniversary of their rivalry.
Hoops chairman Dave Chmura said: “This match marks a significant landmark in the long history of competition between ourselves and Tunbridge Wells and we are very grateful to Eric Diver, who still follows the Hoops’ fortunes as closely as ever even though he now lives in Vancouver, for researching all the history regarding the two clubs’ league meetings.”
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Let’s hope the officials can work together this week.