Written by 
Last weekend saw Dartford entertain Wingate & Finchley at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Poppy Payne featured in our matchday programme that afternoon. For those who missed it, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
Left Wingback, Poppy Payne, is one of the new signings to be brought in by Dartford FC Women bosses Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy during the summer.
The 24-year-old left-footed player arrived from Millwall, after having stints with Kent United, Gillingham, and Charlton Athletic. Despite her young age, she brings a wealth of experience in the women’s game with her, something that will help the team step up to another level this season.
But why did she sign for the Darts?
“I signed for Dartford after seeing the success they had in the league last season, as well as the positive atmosphere amongst the team. It’s something that I really wanted to become a part of Chris.”
She continues, “I’m really enjoying playing with this particular group of girls. We have started the season pretty strongly, with three consecutive wins and zero goals conceded during those games (at the time of writing).”
Those run of results was preceded by a narrow defeat at Dorking Wanderers Women on opening day, before the ladies lost out to Actonians FC in the FA Cup last weekend in a 2-0 defeat.
With the main focus within the camp being to win the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League this season and gain promotion, perhaps exiting a cup competition isn’t too bad a disappointment for the side.
“Yes, our hopes and plans are to win the league this season. This is the top main focus for me personally and for us as a team.”
In order to achieve that, a lot of hard work is needed by everyone within the group. And Poppy certainly isn’t a stranger to hard work, both on and off the pitch.
“There’s rarely a down day for me Chris. I work in advertising for talkSPORT radio in London, so between work, football, and keeping up my fitness levels it’s practically non-stop! But, it’s good fun and I manage to make it work.”
Poppy is fortunate enough to have experienced what can be achieved with hard work and commitment. Her football career began sixteen years ago with Charlton Athletic, where she was enrolled into The Addicks’ Academy…
“Yes, I began football at Charlton at the age of 8. I definitely think that growing up playing within the Academy helped with my discipline and level of commitment that I still hold myself to today.”
Is she happy with how her career has panned out?
“I’m very happy with it Chris. I have been able to play with some incredible people, and I think my journey has led me right to where I should be… playing for a great club, in a very competitive league, with a good football and working life balance.”
With her busy schedule dictating that our conversation on WhatsApp has come to an end, does Poppy have any words for the Dartford faithful?
“I do, yes… the Dartford fan base is such a committed and supportive group of people. All of us girls really appreciate everyone, especially those supporters who attend our games. So, thank you all for your support.”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
I used to have superstitions, but this season I have decided to scrap all of them and try to approach games with a much clearer mind.
Favourite Food?
I would say Prawn Linguine.
Favourite Drink?
I don’t think I have one really.
TV Series or Film?
TV series over films.
Music or Podcast?
Podcasts at the moment, this changes all the time though!
Sporting Hero?
Nobody.
Non-Sporting Hero?
Nobody.
Do you follow any other sports besides football?
No, certain big competitions are fun to watch throughout the year, but no sports consistently throughout the year.
Biggest influence in the dressing room?
All of the girls are great in their own ways, I couldn’t choose one.
What football players, past or present, would make up your dream five-a-side team?
It’s too difficult haha, lets go with:
Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)
William Saliba (Arsenal)
Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid)
Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
By Chris Palmer