KSI's Dagenham & Redbridge Ownership Starts with Victory Over Dorking Wanderers
New minority owner KSI celebrated wildly alongside former England striker Andy Carroll as Dagenham & Redbridge secured a crucial win against National League South leaders Dorking Wanderers. The YouTube sensation, who purchased a stake in the club earlier this week, watched from the stands at Chigwell Construction Stadium on Saturday, marking the beginning of his football ownership journey.
Standing Ovation and Record Attendance
A crowd of 2,281 fans, including 321 away supporters from Dorking, welcomed KSI into the fold, making it the Daggers' third-largest attendance this season. This figure represented an increase of 1,000 spectators compared to the previous home game against AFC Totton. KSI was greeted enthusiastically by fans as he entered the stadium and met players in the dressing room before taking his seat next to Carroll, the ex-Newcastle, Liverpool, and West Ham United forward.
Carroll, aged 37 and signed at the start of the season, is currently sidelined after undergoing surgery for a hamstring injury. Despite his absence from the pitch, he was present to support the team from the stands.
Match Highlights and Celebratory Moments
The first half was a tight affair, but the breakthrough came on the hour mark when Aramide Oteh scored the only goal of the game. KSI embraced Carroll in a moment of wild celebration as the Daggers took the lead. The hosts managed to see out the match, securing three vital points that could help them climb the National League South table.
Following the victory, KSI took to social media to express his pride, posting on X: "So proud of the boys. What a result! UP THE DAGGERS!!!!!" This positive start sets the tone for his ownership, though he acknowledges there is a long road ahead to achieve his ambitious goals.
KSI's Vision for Dagenham & Redbridge
In an interview with the club's website after acquiring minority shares, KSI outlined his aspirations: "I'm so excited to start this journey. It's gonna be a rollercoaster for sure, but I hope to bring Dagenham & Redbridge back to the glory days." He further emphasized his dream of reaching the Premier League, stating, "And once we reach that point, I want to go even further. Reaching the Premier League would be a dream. And I believe it is 100% doable."
KSI urged fans for patience, adding, "It will take a long time, so to the Daggers fans, please be patient. I want you to know that I am fully committed to making sure Dagenham & Redbridge is a team that everyone will know worldwide, and will be an exciting team to watch and support."
Upcoming Documentary Series
To document this journey, KSI will star in a new series that charts every high and low of football club ownership. The series is set to debut on his YouTube channel this summer, reaching his 17 million subscribers worldwide and promoted across his social media platforms. It will continue into the 2026/27 football season, offering an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of running a football club.
This victory over Dorking Wanderers not only kick-starts KSI's ownership regime but also ignites hope among fans for a brighter future under his guidance.
