By James Gray
Dorchester Town will attempt to bounce back from last weekend's disappointing derby loss to Weymouth when they visit high-flying Farnham Town on Saturday (3pm KO).
The match is the third between the two sides this season, with Farnham winning both - 3-1 & 3-0 in the Southern League Premier South and FA Cup respectively.
Dorchester boss Tom Killick will be hoping the new year can bring about a change of fortunes for his side, following a first half of the season that now has the Magpies fighting to avoid relegation.
Here's everything you need to know ahead of Dorchester's trip to Farnham.
Farnham In Brief
Founded: 1906
Nickname: The Town
Stadium: The Memorial Ground
Capacity: 1,500
Playing Surface: Grass
League Position: 4th
Ones To Watch
Ogo Obi leads Farnham's goalscoring charts in the league this season, with 10 strikes to his name. Obi appears to particularly enjoy scoring against the Magpies, having found the back of the net in both of our previous meetings with Farnham this season.
Dan Bayliss, meanwhile, has proved a strong presence at the back for Farnham, since signing for the club earlier this season. The former Slough Town and Chesham United centre back has developed a formidable partnership with Farnham captain Ryan Kinnane at the heart of the Town's defence.
The Gaffer
Paul Johnson has overseen a remarkable rise at Farnham since his managerial appointment in November 2022, securing back-to-back promotions and league titles for the Surrey-based outfit. Johnson, prior to his arrival at the Memorial Ground, had enjoyed successful spells in charge of Spelthorne Sports and Bedfont Sports.
Previous Meeting
Farnham ended Dorchester's FA Cup journey last September, with a 3-0 win at The Memorial Ground.
After a goalless first 45 minutes, the Town scored three unanswered second half goals through Great Evans, Darryl Sanders and Obi.
Farnham would go on to take National League outfit Sutton United to a replay, eventually suffering a 3-2 extra time defeat.
Form Guide
Magpies - DWLWL
Dorchester suffered defeat last Saturday to local rivals Weymouth - a result which saw the Magpies drop to 21st in the league standings. Dorchester's last league win came at the start of December versus Hungerford Town.
Town - DWWWL
Farnham also faced festive blues before the end of 2025, losing for only the third time in the league this season - a 2-0 away defeat to Bracknell Town. Prior to that setback, the Town had scored an impressive 14 goals and conceded just three times as they swept aside Tiverton Town, Gosport Borough and Plymouth Parkway, and drew with Berkhamsted.
Magpies Mind-Boggler
1.) Dorchester's first match of 2025 saw the Magpies host Winchester City at the Avenue Stadium. Can you correctly guess the final score? Bonus point if you can name each goalscorer.
See answer at the bottom of page
Team News
Will Spetch and Wayne Robinson will be available for selection once again, following the expiry of their respective suspensions. Marcus Daws could also return from injury. Wes Fogden remains a long-term absentee for the Magpies.
Admission Prices
Any supporters making the trip to Farnham can purchase their matchday tickets in advance here. Prices are as follows:
Adults: £10
Concessions: £6
Under 16s: Free
Travel Information
By Car: Supporters travelling to Farnham by car are encouraged to park at the nearby Waitrose and Partners store and make the short walk over to the Memorial Ground from there. More information on the available parking options can be found here.
By Train: The nearest train station to the Memorial Stadium is Farnham, which is around a 10-15 minute walk between both locations.
Magpies Mind-Boggler Answer:
1.) 1-0, Shaquille Gwengwe.