Elliot Bradbrook dedicated Dartford’s Kent Senior Cup win over Charlton to the club’s fans.

It has been a difficult few years for the Darts, who suffered relegation from the Conference Premier two years running and now play in the National League South.

But the team brought home some silverware on Tuesday night, beating reigning champions Charlton 3-1 at Princes Park.

Bradbrook said: “It’s been a tough couple of years but that’s what made the win extra special.

“No-one knew what to expect this season as we’ve got a lot of young players – but there’s some real positives to take from the season.

“Bringing home some silverware for the fans is really great, they deserve it for their fantastic support.”

Bradbrook opened the scoring with a superb half-volley on 20 minutes but Charlton, unbeaten in the competition in two season, drew level through Josh Umerah.

The tie was decided in the space of four minutes as Ronnie Vint turned home Ryan Hayes corner before Ben Francis tucked home a neat finish.

Bradbrook insists Dartford deserved the win despite being impressed by the talent of the Addicks squad.

The captain said: “I thought we played really well and turned up on the night.

“Their players were probably sharper on the ball but we felt we could mix it up and turn it into a battle.

“As we’ve got into the latter stages, Tony [Burman] has put out a strong side and we’ve beaten some good teams in the competition.

“Charlton clearly get trained in the right way – they are good on the ball but perhaps our experience was the difference.”

He added: “They are also doing well in the league so they’re clearly talented. I’m sure some of them can knock on the door for a call-up to the first-team.”

Bradbrook’s opener was his 18th goal of the season and the midfielder is delighted to be contributing goals to the side.

He added: “Everything seems to be going in to be fair. It’s nice to get goals, I usually target 10 a season so to get 18 already is great.

“As a team I think we are progressing. There’s guys in that dressing room who could be about for a long time and can help build a squad.”

Charlton U21 coach Jason Euell hopes his side can learn from the defeat.

The former first-team forward said: “We have got to take the hit – we are disappointed that we haven’t managed to retain the trophy but it is part of the learning curve.

“I’ve said to the boys that it’s disappointing, but to look at what we have achieved so far.”