It’s finally here!
On Saturday 4th August, the 2018/19 National League campaign kicks off with promoted Salford City hosting ex-Football League regulars Leyton Orient live on BT Sport at 12:30pm before the other 22 clubs (believe it or not, Salford City are not the only club in the National League this season) begin their own journeys, each dreaming of a spot in the Football League.
Last season showed that while finances and big crowds help, it isn’t the be all and end all. Macclesfield Town had one of the lowest budgets in the National League last season yet good management and a fantastic team spirit ensured they overcame the odds to win the title. On the opposite end of the financial spectrum, Tranmere Rovers followed them into League Two via the play-offs.
It’s Salford City who are by far and away the favourites to win the National League title having spent a small fortune to bring in proven quality. Budgets have swayed the bookies and it’s Chesterfield, Barnet and Leyton Orient that follow, all of whom have ex-National League promotion-winning managers.
Last season’s play-offs featured Aldershot Town who remain underrated despite their consistency under Gary Waddock, Sutton United who continue to thrive under Paul Doswell, surprise package Boreham Wood and promoted duo AFC Fylde and Ebbsfleet United who expect to challenge again.
Several clubs will hope to match the achievements of the aforementioned quintet with Dover Athletic, Wrexham and Bromley all missing out on the final day while Matthew Bates will hope for better from a Hartlepool United team he helped survive last term.
Eastleigh and Maidenhead United hope for better after last season’s mid-table mediocrity. FC Halifax Town and Maidstone United endured more difficult campaigns but have ambitions of higher acclaim.
Of those that won promotion, Harrogate Town scored 100 goals before winning the play-offs while from the National League South, Havant and Waterlooville made it consecutive promotions while Braintree Town defied the odds for a straight return.
Finances mean that Barrow, who survived on the final day of the season at the expense of Woking, Dagenham and Redbridge and Gateshead could potentially struggle this season. And that leaves Solihull Moors, our boys once again favourites for the drop back into regional football.
Twenty-four clubs. Below you can find out information on twenty-three of them and for Solihull Moors, click here.
**Information mostly taken from club websites, Transfermarkt and Soccerway. If any information is incorrect, please feel free to let us know.
AFC Fylde
Last season?
AFC Fylde finally ended their 6th tier hoodoo in 2017 and they wasted no time in making their mark in the National League, sneaking into the play-offs on the final day having scored more goals than any other side in the division. After a frustrating start, they won 13 of their final 24 matches including 5-2, 6-0 and 7-1 thrashings of promotion-chasing Tranmere Rovers, Macclesfield Town and Aldershot Town respectively. They couldn’t take that form into the play-offs, however, and were knocked out of promotion contention thanks to a 2-1 defeat at 4th place Boreham Wood.
Who’s the boss?
Former Tranmere Rovers captain Dave Challinor was famed for his long throws as a player but it’s his attacking approach to management at AFC Fylde that is helping him break records these days. After guiding Colwyn Bay to a second consecutive promotion, he joined Fylde who at the time were hoping to win promotion from the Northern Premier League Division One North. Since taking over in 2011, Fylde have won promotion three times and thanks to their final day point against Wrexham, have never finished outside of the play-off positions. What’s more, Fylde have never scored less than 76 goals in a league campaign under the man who graduated as a physiotherapist in 2012.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Fylde can go some way to explaining the difference between Solihull Moors pre-Mark Yates and after his arrival. Richard Money was in charge when Fylde hit Moors for four at the ATG, warranting Money to claim Fylde were the best side in the National League. Fylde were again impressive when the sides met in Lancashire but Moors earned a 1-1 draw that all but secured our survival, thanks to Omari Sterling-James’ early opener and a wonderful display from Bristol City loanee Max O’Leary.
Summer dealings?
Fylde have a strong core of players so much of their work is spent on gradually improving an impressive squad. Sam Finley is a loss having joined Accrington Stanley but Ryan Croasdale is a shrewd addition on paper. He will be joined Ashley Hemmings, who moved to Salford City earlier in the summer only to leave after the newly-promoted outfit signed Danny Lloyd from Peterborough United, and Danny Philliskirk who has spent most of his career in the Football League. Joe Cardle and Russell Griffths have returned home after differing success in Scotland while the defence is boosted by the additions of Luke Burke, who has made his loan move permanent, and Neill Byrne who has been a regular in the National League for the past four seasons.
Key Players?
With 122 goals in his last four seasons, it’s clear that Danny Rowe is the main man at Fylde. The club have managed to hold on to last season’s National League Player of the Year and his goal tally shows no signs of slowing down. Behind him, Andy Bond’s experience remains as crucial as ever while the tenacious Lewis Montrose is a key figure in midfield. New signings Neill Byrne, Ryan Croasdale and Joe Cardle will be looked towards for consistency and quality.
Where will AFC Fylde finish?
Fylde will score more than enough goals while improvements have been made defensively that should assure them a place in the play-offs.
Aldershot Town
Last season?
Aldershot Town were gunning for the title for much of last season. They started with 11 goals in their first three matches and led the table in November. Victory over Dagenham and Redbridge in February left them one point and one place behind leaders Macclesfield Town, who were also visiting the Recreation Ground the following week. Aldershot lost and never recovered, four wins in their final 14 matches costing them not just the title but also the advantage of a third-place finish. They huffed and puffed against Ebbsfleet United in the play-offs but lost on penalties, consigned to another season of National League football.
Who’s the boss?
Some managers belong at certain clubs and Gary Waddock and Aldershot Town appear to be a match made in heaven. Ex-Republic of Ireland international Waddock joined Aldershot in 2007 and helped the club return to the Football League courtesy of a mammoth 101-point haul. A three-year spell at Wycombe Wanderers followed before spells at MK Dons, Oxford United, Portsmouth and Barnet. Meanwhile, Aldershot have suffered relegation back to the National League amidst financial difficulties and endured three bottom-half finishes. Waddock’s return has gifted The Shots with two play-off campaigns.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Going into our Good Friday fixture, Solihull Moors had played three, lost three and scored none against Aldershot Town in the National League. We needed a result and Aldershot were one team that I didn’t fancy us getting one against. However, an improved Moors team fought impressively with the play-off chasing outfit and arguably had the better of the game. A goalless draw felt frustrating come full-time but it was another sign of just how far Mark Yates’ team had come.
Summer dealings?
If you’re looking for stability and consistency, losing your five most used players from a play-off campaign isn’t the way to go. Waddock has lost Cheye Alexander and Callum Reynolds to promotion contenders Barnet while Will Evans has signed for Chesterfield. Manny Oyeleke, the Aldershot Town Player of the Season, has signed for Port Vale with Jim Kellermann moving to Scotland. Replacing them will be a challenge but Waddock has added experience in the form of Marvin McCoy, Karleigh Osborne and Luke Howell and the loan market has proven fruitful with the signings of Chris Smith, Dominic Bernard and Regan Booty. Josh Lelan signs from Crawley Town while in attack, Luke Wanadio joins after a fine season with Bromley, ex-Crystal Palace youngster Jacob Berkeley-Agyepong hopes to follow in the footsteps of Bernard Mensah and Dan Holman is new in attack.
Key Players?
Gary Waddock has done well mixing youth and experience and will need to do so again this campaign. Despite the losses of key players, Waddock will again be able to rely on Jake Cole, Nick Arnold and Scott Rendell to help lead the dressing room, the latter hoping to build on last season’s 12 goals. Elsewhere, Adam McDonnell’s permanent signing was welcomed by all in January and Shamir Fenelon remains a player threatening to really burst onto the scene after netting 11 goals last term. Luke Wanadio will provide natural width and pace that was missing during their play-off defeat to Ebbsfleet United.
Where will Aldershot Town finish?
Despite losing several key players, manager Gary Waddock will no doubt get the best from a small squad of players. Play-offs.
Barnet
Last season?
Not even Martin Allen could save them this time. Rossi Eames’ ambition was high but as the club slumped to 23rd, the board plumped for experienced. Mark McGhee and Graham Westley both lasted two months apiece but only proceeded to leave Barnet seven points adrift of safety with eight games left to play. The Bees won five, drew one and lost two of those matches but it wasn’t enough. After beating Morecambe on the penultimate day, Barnet thrashed already relegated Chesterfield at The Hive but were left desolate as Coventry City and Morecambe played out a convenient, tame 0-0 draw that gave both sides what they needed. For Barnet, it was enough to send them back to the National League.
Who’s the boss?
After Martin Allen decided to join Chesterfield, who were also relegated from the National League last term, Barnet decided to plump for experience in the form of 68-year-old John Still. Still started out in management 42 years ago with Leytonstone and has achieved seven promotions since, including National League titles with Maidstone United, Dagenham and Redbridge and Luton Town. Still is well-known at Barnet after achieving two play-off finishes in three seasons back in the late 1990’s and fans will hope his brand of attacking, direct football along with his ability to get the most out of non-league talent will see them return to the Football League at the first-time of asking.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Barnet have never played Solihull Moors in a competitive fixture.
Summer dealings?
John Still has gone from one extreme to the other, being able to build a National League all-stars team at Barnet having had nothing to spend at Dagenham and Redbridge. He may have lost John Akinde and Curtis Weston but Still has poached Callum Reynolds and Cheye Alexander from Aldershot Town, Byron Harrison from Barrow and Mark Cousins, Dan Sparkes, Andre Boucaud, Craig Robson and Charlee Adams from ex-club Dagenham and Redbridge. Medy Elito provides the kind of raw ability Still has often excelled in developing while chances have been taken on Josh Walker and Jack Barham who sign from Hendon Town and Greenwich respectively.
Key Players?
Barnet struggled for leadership last term with four managers taking charge of the team and relegation a certainty until Martin Allen stepped back into the fray. Still will hope to re-build the dressing room and signing experienced National League stalwarts such as Reynolds, Alexander, Harrison, Cousins and Boucaud should provide that balance, particularly on the pitch. As for those still at the club, Elliot Johnson and Dave Tarpey could be crucial after returning from season-long injuries. Johnson was a part of the side that won promotion under Martin Allen from the National League while Dave Tarpey scored 51 goals in 47 league appearances prior to joining Barnet last summer.
Where will Barnet finish?
With National League experience all over the shop, John Still will fancy his new side’s chances of a promotion push. Play-offs.
Barrow
Last season?
Despite a couple of cost-cutting exercises, the expectation from my end was that Paul Cox, who has won two previous promotions and turned Barrow from relegation candidates to play-off contenders, would help them push higher up the division. Cox lasted five matches before resigning and after 17 matches, The Bluebirds had won just twice. Five wins in Ady Pennock’s first eight matches gave Barrow breathing space but four wins from their final 21 matches and Solihull Moors’ dramatic run of form dragged them right back into relegation contention. Their final day defeat to already relegated Chester at home was dismal but Woking’s defeat ensured it was the Londoners who departed the National League. Barrow live to fight another day.
Who’s the boss?
After pipping Woking to survival in the National League last term, Barrow made the decision to remove Ady Pennock and replace him with the untried Ian Evatt. Evatt maybe new to management, save for three games in charge of already relegated Chesterfield last season, but his experiences as a player could stand him in good stead. After all, Evatt has played over 500 league matches in all four divisions of English football and has also won promotion from League Two, League One and the Championship, peaking with 38 Premier League appearances during Blackpool’s one top-flight campaign. A leader as a player, Evatt will hope his time playing for under-rated clubs will stand him in good stead as he looks to defy the odds with Barrow.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Arguably the most pivotal result of Solihull Moors campaign came against Barrow. At the time, Barrow were 20th in the National League while The Moors sat bottom of the division, 12 points adrift of their final opponents of 2017. Despite conceding early in the second half, goals from Darren Carter and Jamie Reckord, the latter from the penalty spot, secured a victory for Solihull Moors that would spark an upturn in results and our survival.
Summer dealings?
It’s been a busy old summer for Ian Evatt who has lost key players in the form of man-mountains Moussa Diarra and Bedsente Gomis, forwards Jordan White and Byron Harrison, midfielder Donovan Makoma, goalkeeper Steve Arnold and the experienced Asa Hall. Replacements are aplenty however for the novice gaffer. Experience comes in the form of Brian Wilson, Lee Molyneux and Jason Taylor while Connor Brown, Raul Correia, Rhys Turner, Jacob Blyth and Josh Kay have all experienced Football League. John Rooney was a standout for Guiseley when fit. Other signings include youngsters Matty Elsdon, Andy Firth, Jim Pollard and Tyler Smith along with lower league talents Jack Hindle, Josh Granite and Astley Mulholland. Have I missed anybody?
Key Players?
Ian Evatt will know that experience can be key and as a novice manager, he will no doubt be looking towards Thierry Audel, Brian Wilson, Jason Taylor and Lee Molyneux to keep everybody in check. John Rooney struggled with fitness but was often a key man for Guiseley in midfield while his knowledge of the division should stand him in good stead. Joel Dixon or Andy Firth will get the chance to step up to the plate as number one goalkeeper while Matty Elsdon comes highly-recommended. Further forward, the powerful Jacob Blyth will hope to make up for lost time and keep an eye out for young Nathan Waterston.
Where will Barrow finish?
Ian Evatt’s first job in management is an awfully tough one and there is inexperience throughout the squad. Survival battle.
Boreham Wood
Last season?
Boreham Wood came so, so close to becoming the feel-good story of English football last season. The team with the lowest National League attendance, with a 32-year-old gaffer and whose upward trajectory since 2013 has been nothing short of remarkable. The Wood started brightly and followed it up with a 12-game unbeaten run that led into Christmas. Their defeat at home to Sutton United was followed by one defeat in 13 and their play-off spot was all but secured. Despite suffering injuries during each leg of the play-offs, they beat a rampant AFC Fylde outfit then overcame a hugely impressive Sutton United team away from home. The play-off final was set-up perfectly when Tranmere Rovers left-back Liam Ridehalgh was sent off after 40+ seconds but depsite the one-man advantage, Boreham Wood were left desolate as Rovers danced on the Wembley turf. A sickening end to a wonderful campaign.
Who’s the boss?
32-year-old Luke Garrard has enjoyed a wonderful start to his managerial career. Formerly of AFC Wimbledon, Garrard was part of the Boreham Wood squad that won promotion to the National League for the first time in the club’s history. What he perhaps didn’t envisage was being given the manager’s job just three months into the new campaign when legendary manager Ian Allinson departed due to increased work commitments. Yet Garrard has led the club remarkably well in his three years, firstly surviving, then consolidating before leading the club to the play-off final. His managerial performance at such a young age has been nothing short of remarkable.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
The Wood earned a fantastic 4-1 victory when Solihull Moors visited in August but faced a much tougher test two days before Christmas Day. On a freezing cold afternoon, it was defences that came out on top as a more organised Solihull Moors side earned a bore draw against a Boreham Wood side that were very physical defensively. It wasn’t a game for the neutral but a couple of close efforts from debutant Jack Storer almost gave Moors a unlikely victory.
Summer dealings?
Boreham Wood have understandably taken some time to get going during the transfer window due to their play-off exploits and have come away relatively unscathed with only top scorer Bruno Andrade and goalkeeper Grant Smith moving on following last season’s promotion challenge. Ryan Huddart has big boots to fill in goal but up front remains an area of concern with Morgan Ferrier following Andrade out of the door. Huddart will be well-protected by Femi Ilesanmi, Jamal Fyfield and Manny Parry who improved the defence while Connor Smith joins with a point to prove after frustrating spells elsewhere. Bradley Ash has joined permanently from Barnsley.
Key Players?
Boreham Wood were a very powerful side last term and the signings of Fyfield, Parry and Ilesanmi only add to a core of players that includes giants David Stephens and Keiran Murtagh. Mark Ricketts and Tom Champion are experienced campaigners and will once again remain pivotal to The Wood’s chances of progression. Further forward, Angelo Balanta is undeniably talented enough to step into the Football League if he can add consistency to his game.
Where will Boreham Wood finish?
Boreham Wood will certainly have one of the best defensive records this term but it’s at the other end they may lack. Play-offs.
Braintree Town
Last season?
The National League South’s second highest scorers endured an indifferent beginning, losing just five of their first 26 matches but rarely putting together a consistent run of victories. Four defeats in five looked to derail their promotion chances in February but the Essex club kicked into gear and Brad Quinton’s team won 7 of their final 11 matches to secure a play-off berth, even in spite of a one-point deduction for fielding an ineligible player. The new non-league play-offs certainly favour clubs that finish 2nd and 3rd but 6th place Braintree showed their mettle, beating Hemel Hampstead (5th) on penalties, Dartford (2nd) 1-0 and Hampton & Richmond (4th) on penalties, all away from home to secure promotion.
Who’s the boss?
Brad Quinton is a Braintree Town legend having made over 500 appearances for the Iron as a player and his return was welcomed with open arms with Enfield Town having made the play-offs under his tutelage and Braintree still despairing following their relegation to the National League South. The ex-midfielder struggled for consistency early on but his positivity clearly rubbed off on a group of players who came together when the occasion called, The Iron securing promotion at the end of last season. If the former midfielder wasn’t a legend following his time as a player, he most definitely revered around Essex now.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
What an unbelievable game this was. The Iron were desperate to get away from the drop zone and their brand of front foot, direct football certainly worked early on as The Iron secured a three-goal lead within 26 minutes. Despite beginning their descent towards the relegation places, Solihull Moors showed their mettle, continuing to play and keep the ball moving. Simeon Maye responded immediately before late goals from Oladapo Afolayan and George Carline saw The Moors earn a point in a breath-taking 3-3 draw at the ATG.
Summer dealings?
As it stands, Braintree Town have only added three new players to their ranks, meaning manager Brad Quinton is hopeful that last season’s group can step up to the plate or he simply hasn’t had the summer he hoped for. Marc-Anthony Okoye is the big departure, the giant defender moving to Bromley this summer. Michael Clark, formerly of Leyton Orient, is new in defence while Olumide Durojaiye and Lyle Della-Verde have joined from ex-National League South rivals Welling and Dartford.
Key Players?
Admittedly I saw little of Braintree Town last season due to being in the Conference South but it looks as though much of their reliance was on a solid defensive and midfield base. Keeper Nathan McDonald started all but one match while Jon Muleba, Christian Frimpong and Ben Wyatt all played over 35 matches. Luke Allen did the same in midfield while Billy Crook, who has been the subject of a ban following an altercation last season, scored 11 goals from midfield from his 40 starts. Up front, Braintree saw Phillip Roberts depart so eyes will be on Reece Grant who scored 8 goals despite making just 13 starts.
Where will Braintree Town finish?
Brad Quinton’s biggest job will be adding goals to a side that should hard to beat. A Survival Battle is in store for the newly promoted outfit.
Bromley
Last season?
A case of close but not quite for a Bromley side that so nearly defied the odds. Having sat in the top 7 and plunged home goals for fun, the bad weather and FA Trophy replays meant Bromley were contending with an unenviable fixture list that ultimately proved too much. Their league position took a battering as two wins from 10 matches all but cost them a spot in the play-offs. Still, 10 points from the four matches proceeding their final day fixture at Maidenhead United gave them a chance. Meanwhile, replay victories over Workington and Spennymoor Town and a two-legged victory over Gateshead gave Bromley the chance to compete at Wembley for the FA Trophy. Ultimately, their 5-2 defeat in Hertfordshire would prove insignificant due to other results and the real sickener came at Wembley when Brackley Town scored a 95th minute equaliser before winning 5-4 on penalties. Bromley came so close and left with nothing.
Who’s the boss?
Formerly of Gillingham, Fulham and Reading in his playing days, Neil Smith first got into the management game at Woking, helping the club survive as his playing career wound down. For a few years, Smith bounced from club to club, either managing or playing until he joined Bromley in 2011. Mark Goldberg was his manager and after taking the club into the top tier of non-league, Goldberg left in 2016 to be replaced by his assistant. Smith hasn’t looked back, guiding The Ravens away from the dreaded drop and challenging for the play-offs last season.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
As is the case with most of these meetings, Solihull Moors lost against Bromley in the early part of the season, beaten by a late George Porter winner that summed up a run of conceding late goals under Liam McDonald. In March, The Moors were desperate for the points and Kwame Thomas settled the nerves for the hosts. As the clock ran down, Bromley started to bombard Max O’Leary’s area but he and his defence held firm until the 94th minute when Alex Reid made the most of a defensive lapse to lob David Gregory and secure a huge victory.
Summer dealings?
Neil Smith has had to back himself and his recruitment team this summer after his two star turns made their way into League One: 14-goal striker Louis Dennis joined Portsmouth while 16-goal midfielder Josh Rees has made his way to Gillingham. Tyrone Sterling, who started 43 games, has dropped a division while Luke Wanadio has moved to Aldershot Town. In their place, Bobby-Joe Taylor has swapped with Wanadio, Marc-Anthony Okoye, key in Braintree Town’s promotion, boosts the backline alongside Maidenhead United’s Jake Goodman while Tobi Adebayo-Rowling and Kyle De Silva have come in from foreign soil. As far as goals are concerned, Junior Ogedi-Uzokwa has joined on loan from Colchester United.
Key Players?
The key for Smith is to replace the goals of those that have departed yet only Omar Bugiel, George Porter and Ogedi-Uzokwe are natural forwards – Porter scored 6 in 38, Bugiel 4 in 16 while Ogedi-Uzokwe managed 1 from 9 appearances at Colchester United last term. Players need to step up so De Silva, Taylor and Mekki will need to support. Jack Holland remains a key player with his 7 goals certainly useful to The Ravens’ play-off push. David Gregory and Frankie Raymond also remain having played key roles last term while experience comes in the form of Roger Johnson, Ben Chorley and Alan Dunne.
Where will Bromley finish?
The losses of Louis Dennis and Josh Rees undoubtedly weaken Bromley. They should avoid trouble but they will do well to repeat last year’s final day play-off push. Mid-table.
Chesterfield
Last season?
Things have rarely been dull at Chesterfield over the last couple of seasons but successive relegations from League One to the National League seems a little extreme even for them. Gary Caldwell rung the changes following their first relegation with 17 new players joining during the summer, 18 departing. Caldwell’s inability to get his new boys performing cost him his job by September and despite his best efforts, club legend Jack Lester couldn’t turn things around. Eleven more players were added in January but Chesterfield would win just five of their final 25 matches with relegation confirmed after with three matches still left to play. A disastrous campaign.
Who’s the boss?
Poor Barnet. Despite their relegation, they must have hoped Martin Allen could repeat his feat a few years prior and take the club back into the Football League. Instead, he joined Chesterfield. The 52-year-old has done the rounds in management with spells at – deep breath – Reading, Barnet, Brentford, MK Dons, Leicester City, Cheltenham Town, Barnet (again), Notts County, Barnet (again), Gillingham, Barnet (again), Eastleigh and finally, Barnet. Allen did win promotion with Barnet back in 2014-15 from this level but struggled badly during his time at Eastleigh in 2016/17, winning just 2 of his 14 matches in charge having revamped the squad. Hopefully his management is better than his inspirational transfer announcements.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Chesterfield have never played Solihull Moors in a competitive fixture.
Summer dealings?
Reading Martin Allen’s transfer announcements has been one of the joys of this summer from a National League perspective, particularly Michael Nelson who was described as “very old” and “as fit as a butcher’s dog”. He is joined by promotion-winning goalkeeper Shwan Jalal, Allen’s trusted midfield lieutenant Curtis Weston and National League stars Will Evans, Charlie Carter and Sam Wedgbury. Much of the summer has been spent getting rid of the deadwood and that has certainly happened – at least 14 players have left this summer with Kristian Dennis the most notable, his replacement seemingly being 24-year-old Lee Shaw signed from Grantham.
Key Players?
Chesterfield has been a troubled club for a long time so Martin Allen will want winners and scrappers in his camp to turn the bad feeling around and bring the crowd back on board. That means experience is going to be key and there is plenty of it – Shwan Jalal, Michael Nelson, Drew Talbot, Curtis Weston, Robbie Weir, Sam Wedgbury and Zavon Hines have been around the block. Will Evans is a giant of a defender that should prove useful while young talents Charlie Carter, Charlie Wakefield and Joe Rowley could feature quite a bit. In attack, Chesterfield look light on the ground and will hope Gozie Ugwu can fill his boots like he did at Woking.
Where will Chesterfield finish?
I’ve ummed and ahhed and ummed and ahhed some more. Martin Allen’s arrival makes me think Chesterfield are destined for a return. But they’re up against Salford City and it could be either or. Play-offs.
Dagenham & Redbridge
Last season?
One of my pre-season favourites for promotion, everything was going swimmingly for John Still’s Dagenham and Redbridge. Undefeated in the opening 8 matches and at the halfway point of their campaign, they sat 5th in the league table with one of the strongest sides in the division. Then came the financial problems. The Daggers lost seven games in a nine-game spell between January and March that killed their play-off hopes as Morgan Ferrier, Scott Doe, Sam Ling and Corey Whiteley all departed. The Save The Daggers campaign was ramped up and results ultimately paled into insignificance. Promotion was the aim and though relegation was of no concern, survival is now the goal.
Who’s the boss?
Peter Taylor is perhaps the one manager to have taken charge of more clubs than Martin Allen and John Still in the National League. Here’s his list: Dartford, Southend United, Dover Athletic, England U21, Gillingham, Leicester City, England (caretaker), Brighton & Hove Albion, Hull city, England U21 (again), Crystal Palace, Stevenage Borough, Wycombe Wanderers, Bradford City, Bahrain, England U20, Gillingham (again), Kerala Blasters, Gillingham (caretaker) and now The Daggers. In that time, Taylor has won promotion on five occasions as well as securing a gold medal in the Arab Games and GCC Games with Bahrain. Now 65, his experience could be crucial in charge of a Daggers team decimated due to financial difficulties.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Solihull Moors seemed destined to never beat Dagenham and Redbridge. After a 5-2 defeat in our first ever match-up, The Moors lost a 4-2 lead thanks to 83rd and 85th minute goals and last season we led until conceding a corner kick in the 96th minute. Then in January, it finally happened. An Adi Yussuf double, on his debut, gave us a two-goal lead and despite conceding at the end of the first half, Jermaine Hylton teed up Oladapo Afolayan for his final goal in Solihull Moors colours.
Summer dealings?
With the club desperately trying to secure funding from every and any available avenue, Dagenham and Redbridge’s summer has been more about survival that building a side to challenge like last season. Most of last season’s squad have moved on, many to fellow National League sides although special mentions for forwards Mason Bloomfield and Fejiri Okenabirhie who have moved to Norwich City and Shrewsbury Town respectively. Peter Taylor has been done well to secure the services of the experienced Gavin Hoyte, ex-Chelsea youth Alex Davey and winger Lamar Reynolds. Otherwise, they have signed nobody over the age of 21: Will Wright, Harry Donovan and Ben Goodliffe have joined on loan while James Blanchfield and Ollie Harfield were released by Ipswich Town and Bournemouth this summer.
Key Players?
Peter Taylor has been left with a small squad of players so he will be relying on the few that are over the age of 21. That means goalkeeper Elliott Justham, defenders Gaving Hoyte and Ben Nunn, midfielder Matt Robinson and forward Elliott Romain, who was loaned out to Torquay United last term, will be looked towards for leadership on and off the field during troubling times. Lamar Reynolds shined with the V9 Academy while Tarique Hyde is a talent at just 18.
Where will Dagenham and Redbridge finish?
Financial problems mean that Peter Taylor has his work cut out this term. He will need to find gems and coax leadership from his young squad if they are to survive. Relegated.
Dover Athletic
Last season?
Dover have proven to be one of the most consistent clubs in the National League over recent years but since defeat in the 2015/16 play-offs, Dover have missed out two years on the spin. Chris Kinnear pretty much had to replace an entire squad during the summer yet 20 games in they were top of the division having conceded just 13 goals and with a forward scoring for fun. From that point, they lost as many as they won and despite sending Woking towards relegation on the final day, AFC Fylde secured the point they needed to pip Dover to 7th place on goal difference. There’s always next season.
Who’s the boss?
Chris Kinnear is a Dover Athletic legend and his status has only been increased during his second spell with The Whites. He first became manager at Dover Athletic in 1985, guiding them from the bottom of the Southern League to mid-table in the Conference. He succeeded in taking Margate from the Southern League South to the Conference before financial difficulties saw them drop back to the leagues. His second spell at Margate was short-lived as Dover came knocking. Kinnear won promotion in his first full season and since returning to the Conference, Dover have finished 8th, 5th, 6th and 8th.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Once again, Dover were another club we finally got the better of in the final half of the season. Moors came into the game on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Ebbsfleet United, our first of the new year, and a second defeat looked likely when Kyle Storer gave away a penalty dispatched by Ryan Bird. Storer made up for the error with the equaliser but Mitchell Pinnock’s goal gave the visitors a fortuitous lead on the hour. Made of sterner stuff post-Christmas, Kwame Thomas scored from the spot to make it 2-2 and Alex Reid, in just his first home appearance for the club, scored the winner with just six minutes left to play. A fantastic game of football and a return to winning ways for our boys.
Summer dealings?
Once again, Chris Kinnear is left rebuilding an impressive Dover team and hoping to make the step into the play-off positions. Defensively they have seen Manny Parry and Femi Ilesanmi make the move to Boreham Wood while Giancarlo Gallifuoco have moved to Italy. Further forward, Mitch Pinnock has earned a move to AFC Wimbledon while top scorer Ryan Bird has moved to Maidenhead United. Power has been the name of the summer recruitment and Bedsente Gomis, Inih Effiong and Moussa Diarra ensure Dover Athletic won’t be wanting for physicality through the centre of the pitch. Kevin Lokko and Jack Connors have joined from Stevenage and Ebbsfleet United to improve the backline while chances have been taken on Swiss defender Tim Schmoll and Sittingbourne striker David Smith.
Key Players?
Impressively, a selection of eight players only missed five league games between them but only three remain so Kinnear will look towards goalkeeper Mitch Walker, captain Mitch Brundle and defender Connor Essam to show the newbies the way. Inih Effiong will be relied upon to replace Bird but others need to step up in front of goal – Tobi Sho-Silva, Jamie Allen, Anthony Jeffrey and David Smith need to find the net. Moussa Diarra and Bedsente Gomis are fine additions and will join the spine of Dover’s starting XI more often than not.
Where will Dover Athletic finish?
Dover have gone for the same recipe as last season with power in abundance. They will challenge for the play-offs but a lack of goals could be a problem. Play-offs.
Eastleigh
Last season?
Eastleigh weren’t expected to stick around in the National League for too long but after two promotion pushes, they have struggled to hit the heights over the last two seasons. Their 2016/17 campaign was a disaster and Richard Hill couldn’t turn things around in the first half of last season, Eastleigh winning 5 and drawing 11 of their opening 24 matches. Andy Hessenthaler’s arrival saw a spike in form with 18 points from his first 8 games in charge but as the gap between Eastleigh and the drop zone increased to 13 points, form dipped and The Spitfires would win just 3 of their final 14 matches, ending their season with a 4-1 victory at the ATG.
Who’s the boss?
I’ll be honest, when I think of Andy Hessenthaler these days, I tend to remember the boot up the backside he received off Leyton Orient chairman Francesco Becchetti. Of course, he’s had a far better career than that memory deserves. After all, the 52-year-old was a hero at Watford after stepping up from non-league and played over 300 league games for Gillingham where he won promotion to the second tier for the first time in the club’s history. In management, two promotions and a play-off campaign with Dover was his most successful term either side of two spells in charge of Gillingham. His short spell at Leyton Orient is better left unmentioned and he’ll be hoping for better times with an underachieving Eastleigh side.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Solihull Moors beat Tranmere Rovers in our penultimate game of the season and finally took our foot off the gas for the final game. We got hammered by Eastleigh in that game. Sam Matthews ran the show and scored a deserved hat-trick as a much-changed Moors team were beaten 4-1 at the ATG. Not that it mattered – the survival party had begun a game earlier.
Summer dealings?
It’s been a slow summer for Eastleigh who have decided against a major overhaul of a squad that has failed to achieve much in the last couple of seasons. Sam Togwell and Gavin Hoyte have moved on while young defender Ayo Obileye has joined Maidenhead United. Young legs have finally joined and Hessenthaler will hope Maidstone United duo Alex Wynter and Josh Hare improve the backline along with Woking defender Joey Jones. In midfield, Oscar Gobern will add power while teenager George Dowling is highly thought of at Bristol City.
Key Players?
Eastleigh have leant too much on experience in recent years and Hessenthaler is finally addressing this. Only Mark Yeates and Chris Zebroski managed to play 40+ games last season and Hessenthaler is clearly trying to bring in players moving towards their prime. It means Ben Williamson and Andrew Boyce will once again be looked towards on the pitch while Jones, Wynter and Hare ensure the Eastleigh backline is more mobile. Cavanagh Miley is a talented young midfielder and George Dowling will also have a big role to play despite his inexperience.
Where will Eastleigh finish?
Hessenthaler is clearly making an attempt to provide get young legs into his squad but there remains an unreliability to the squad. This is more than a one season job. Mid-table.
Ebbsfleet United
Last season?
Some managers like to avoid defeat, some managers like to go on the offensive. Daryl McMahon found the happy medium early on in Ebbsfleet United’s first National League campaign since relegation in 2013 – they drew 9 of their first 11 matches. Sat just above the relegation zone, The Fleet started to find their feet but inconsistency marred their campaign until a 1-0 victory over Solihull Moors in mid-February that sparked a run of one defeat in 14 matches. The newly-promoted outfit secured 6th spot and overturned Aldershot Town in the first round of the play-offs before succumbing to a rampant Tranmere Rovers outfit. A campaign that defied pre-season expectations.
Who’s the boss?
From the bits I get to see and hear from Ebbsfleet United, it appears that everybody loves Daryl McMahon. McMahon played almost 70 games for Ebbsfleet following their relegation to the Conference South but failed to do what he did as a manager two years after his retirement – lead them back into the National League. The 35-year-old won two promotions as a player but having taken The Fleet to the play-off semi-finals last season, it’s fair to say his achievements as a manager are already outweighing those of his playing days.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
After being the side that finally forced the Moors board into letting go of Liam McDonald, Ebbsfleet decided to become the first team to beat Mark Yates’ team in 2018. Neither side performed particularly well on a cold February afternoon but the Stonebridge Road was lit up by a wonderful Luke Coulson strike that left Max O’Leary with no chance. The one goal was enough to separate the two sides.
Summer dealings?
It’s evident that Daryl McMahon trusts the players that helped him win promotion to the National League. Jack Connors and Marvin McCoy are casualties this summer but otherwise The Fleet will go into the new season with a very similar squad to the one that finished the last. Competition has been added by the experienced and versatile Jack King who has made the most of his talent since earning a move to the Football League while Ebou Adams, who made a good impression at Leyton Orient last term, joins from Norwich City on a free transfer.
Key Players?
Ebbsfleet will rely on a lot of the same players that took them into the play-offs last season meaning stalwarts Nathan Ashmore, Danny Kedwell and Kenny Clark will remain key figures in the squad. Powerful winger Luke Coulson and the technically gifted Jack Powell both scored 10 goals apiece last term and at 24, they are looking mature enough to lead Ebbsfleet towards another promotion push.
Where will Ebbsfleet United finish?
There is real talent at Ebbsfleet still but while improvements have been made in midfield, their reliance on Danny Kedwell in attack means they could fall short of the play-offs. Top half.
Gateshead
Last season?
For the fourth season in succession, Gateshead endured mid-table mediocrity, only this time without being able to cling on to the hope of maybe reaching the play-offs. Neil Aspin departed for League Two Port Vale in October having over seen four wins and losses apiece from their opening 14 matches and things never really improved under Steve Watson. There were some high moments, particularly against Maidenhead United who they thumped 3-0 and 7-1 while a run to the FA Trophy semi-final was something to shout about. Their season wasn’t quite as bad as their 17th place finish may suggest and they finished up with a positive goal difference but inconsistency once again ensured Gateshead failed to reach the heights they had hoped for.
Who’s the boss?
Steve Watson was a household name in Newcastle for years having come through the Newcastle United academy, become their youngest ever footballer and become the ultimate utility man for his boyhood club. His career was one spent almost entirely in the Premier League with spells at Aston Villa, Everton and West Bromwich Albion following The Magpies. Since retiring, Watson’s time was often spent working under ex-Newcastle team-mate Lee Clark before moving to Macclesfield Town as assistant manager. He then replaced Neil Aspin at Gateshead last season and hopes to make a good impression in his first full season in management.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Talk about heartbreak. Solihull Moors could scarcely have played better against ten-man Gateshead. We opened the scoring through Alex Reid but conceded in the second half when Paddy McLaughlin scored. Chris Lait, who had not long entered the pitch to make just his second appearance for Solihull Moors after a year out injured, thought he had become a hero when he slotted the ball into the back of the net on 87 minutes. Yet as injury-time looked to be over and the hosts legs were starting to go, a pot-shot from substitute Wes York was deflected in by a desperate Kyle Storer lunge leaving Max O’Leary diving the wrong way. When you’re down at the bottom, sometimes things don’t go your way.
Summer dealings?
It’s been a difficult summer for Steve Watson who was left stranded in the market due to an ongoing takeover that never came to fruition and has since lost several first-team players due to a drop in the playing budget. Greenwood, Penn, Preston, Vassell, York, Byrne, McLaughlin, Burrow, Montgomery, Johnson and Fyfield all Heed-ed the financial warning and left the club. Watson’s rebuilding job has been a difficult one but experienced forward Scott Boden is a coup while Greg Olley has shone in pre-season. Robbie Tinkler and Connor Thomson have National League experience but they are two of nine signings that are all aged 23 and under. Mark Foden has moved down from Scotland and Gateshead have raided Newcastle United, Middlesbrough and Carlisle United for Jack Hunter, Lewis Maloney, Luke Armstrong, Cameron Salkeld and Aynsley Pears.
Key Players?
There are not many players left from last season so Steve Watson will be very reliant on those that remain to help lead a young squad. Dan Hanford, Fraser Kerr, Richard Peniket and Scott Barrow are in that party, as is JJ O’Donnell who once endured two and a half years out injured with a rare foot problem. New boy Scott Boden will another relied upon for guidance but the midfield looks light so Connor Thomson, Robbie Tinkler and Greg Olley may have to defy their ages to provide stability in the centre of the pitch.
Where will Gateshead finish?
A novice manager, a novice team and they currently lack the finances to strengthen further. It could be a difficult campaign for Gateshead. Relegated.
FC Halifax Town
Last season?
Billy Heath is clearly the man for a promotion push towards the National League and he must have thought his luck was in when a winless opening four matches were followed by six wins in eight but it proved to be a false dawn. Halifax failed to win any of their next 11 matches and back-to-back victories in December were followed by another eight without victory. Jamie Fullarton’s arrival immediately sparked a 2-0 victory over Hartlepool United and it was the catalyst for a run of one defeat in 10 that all but secured The Stags’ place in the National League for the 2018/19 campaign.
Who’s the boss?
I’ll be honest in admitting that I hadn’t really heard of Jamie Fullarton until he became Notts County manager in 2016 for a brief spell. Yet Fullarton enjoyed a decent career, starting out in his native Scotland with St.Mirren before spells in France and England, including time with Crystal Palace in the Premier League. A serious knee injury all but ended his career aged just 29 but Bellshill-born midfielder decided to move to Spain where he set up his own football academy. He had spells with Bristol Rovers and Bolton Wanderers as a coach before a two-month stint with Notts County that was always doomed to fail. After a bright start with Halifax Town, he will hope for better times ahead in management.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Vital Solihull Moors joined supporters for the big away day to Halifax last season and from the outside, the ground looked spectacular. The bar area looked clean and then we moved into the ground. The pitch was horrendous, the seating area looked as if it hadn’t been touched for a while and the game itself was even worse. Fondop-Talem became the butt of the jokes with a dive followed by a shocking attempt while one-on-one with O’Leary. It perhaps didn’t help that Moors wasted a similar chance in the second half. A drab 0-0 draw but an important point for both sides.
Summer dealings?
After relegation, promotion and survival, Halifax have made a few changes this summer to a core set of players throughout their squad. It means that Jake Hibbs, Scott McManus, Tom Denton, Cliff Moyo and Scott Garner have departed allowing a new set of players the chance to become heroes at The Shay. Jamie Fullarton has opted for youth with Samni Odelusi the eldest at 25. Halifax were amongst the lowest scorers in the division last year and Fullarton has attempted to address with the signings of Odelusi, Jordan Preston, Cameron King, Mekhi McLeod and Dayle Southwell. Further back, Josh Staunton has joined from relegated Woking, Ryan Sellars has left Wealdstone, Jacob Hanson has returned on loan from Bradford City and Shaun Rowley will compete for a goalkeeping position after his release from Shrewsbury Town.
Key Players?
As previously mentioned, goals were a problem for Halifax last season with only the bottom three of Guiseley, Chester and Torquay United scoring less. It means that Jordan Preston and Dayle Southwell in particular will be looked towards to start finding the back of the net on a regular basis. Matty Kosylo will be right behind them, the top-knotted winger a real nuisance of a player and somebody I begrudgingly can’t fault when it comes to his footballing ability. Sam Johnson started 44 games last year and in front of him, Matty Brown and Josh Wilde will likely remain key figures.
Where will FC Halifax Town finish?
I like that Fullarton has attempted to address the lack of goals in the team while the defence has been reinvented without being completely ripped apart. They should survive comfortably. Mid-table.
Harrogate Town
Last season?
Harrogate Town made the bold decision to go into full-time football last season at the behest of manager Simon Weaver following a slump in form that cost them promotion in 2016/17. It worked a treat. Harrogate scored 100 league goals, finished with 85 points and won promotion. Right from the start, Town went neck and neck with Salford City for the title, more often than not one step behind their title rivals. When they finally moved to the top of the division in March, a minor slump in form cost them and they could never recover the gap despite six wins from their last eight. A 2nd place finish meant Harrogate had extra time to prepare for the play-offs and their full-time status clearly paid off as they saw off Chorley 2-1 and 3rd place Brackley Town 3-0 in the final. For the first time in their history, Harrogate Town are in the top tier of non-league football.
Who’s the boss?
To those on the outside, it may seem a tad peculiar that Simon Weaver is the manager of the club that his father Irving is chairman of. Yet in this instance, Weaver Junior arrived two years before Weaver Senior. Simon Weaver was a journeyman centre-half who bounced from club to club in the non-league scene prior to joining Harrogate Town as manager in 2009 aged just 31. His first season proved to be a disaster, the club finishing bottom of the league only to be reprieved by Northwich Victoria’s expulsion. From that point on, the club improved and last season was everything the Weaver family had been dreaming of.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
It’s often fun being able to look back and reminisce about our promotion campaign of 2015/16. However, our previous trip to Harrogate Town was nowhere near fun. In short, we were humiliated. Wayne Burrell kicked off the scoring in the first half before the floodgates opened. Marcus Bignot’s team finished up on the wrong end of a 6-0 scoreline, Burrell bagging himself a hat-trick. The Moors would win 10 of their next 13 as they romped to the title while Harrogate finished up in 4th only to be denied by Fylde in the play-off semi-finals.
Summer dealings?
Like their National League South counterparts Braintree Town, Harrogate have decided against a major reshuffle in the playing staff this summer. The experienced John McCombe has joined Ben Middleton at Boston United while Terry Kennedy and Jake Wright have also departed. Weaver has boosted his backline with the signings of experienced centre-back Kelvin Langmead, Port Vale defender Callum Howe and Leeds United youngster Liam Kitching. Further forward, the boss will hope Aaron Williams and Jack Muldoon can step up to the plate and provide even more firepower.
Key Players?
Simon Weaver will look around his squad this summer and know that even without new signings Williams and Muldoon, he has goals in abundance. Dominic Knowles top-scored with 16 but Joe Leesley, Simon Ainge, George Thomson and Jordan Thewlis all hit double figures last term. Away from the goals, James Belshaw, Wayne Burrell and Josh Falkingham were the heartbeat of the team. Central defence is an area that needed improving so Callum Howe, Liam Kitching and Kelvin Langmead have the opportunity to step in and make a name for themselves.
Where will Harrogate Town finish?
Simon Weaver has a side that scores goals for fun and he’s kept hold of those players. Add three new defenders and he has a team that could potentially thrive. Mid-table.
Hartlepool United
Last season?
Most people’s tip for the title, Hartlepool United endured a drab campaign marred by financial insecurity and poor performances on the pitch. Craig Harrison found out the hard way that National League football isn’t like the Welsh top division and despite some positive form going into November, Hartlepool couldn’t sustain their push towards the play-offs, Harrison leaving in February after one win in 12 matches. Injuries had certainly hindered their tilt towards the top but Matthew Bates proved that with a bit of organisation and confidence, results can be found. The Monkey Hangers survived comfortably, losing just two of their final 11 fixtures.
Who’s the boss?
Matthew Bates was one of many youngsters to come through the Middlesbrough academy under Steve McClaren but after finally making his breakthrough following relegation to the Championship, his continuous injury problems began to play havoc on his career, resulting in a swift drop through the leagues where he ended up at Hartlepool United. The ex-centre-half, who was once famed for dating celebrity Chanelle Hayes, joined the Monkey Hangers’ coaching staff and after two stints as caretaker manager, he has taken on the top job permanently this summer.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Hartlepool’s form had improved under Bates and survival seemed all but assured after an alarming drop in form. Solihull Moors, meanwhile, were in desperate need of the three-points when the two sides met in the North East. The Moors knocked on the door but couldn’t find a way through until Adi Yussuf prodded home a Darren Carter corner with just two minutes left to play. Despite Liam Daly’s bizarre straight red for dissent, The Moors held on for a huge victory that finally took Mark Yates’ team out of the bottom four.
Summer dealings?
One of the positives in recruiting somebody from within is that they know plenty about the players they want to keep and are happy to let go. Liam Donnelly and Devante Rodney will have hit a sore spot still, mind. Bates has gone for experience at centre-half with ex-teammate Andrew Davies and Chester’s Myles Anderson adding steel at the back while Peter Kioso and Mark Kitching mean a whole new back four could be in store. Paddy McLaughlin impressed at Gateshead while Liam Noble is a well-known Football League midfielder. Up front, Luke James returns with a point to prove and Marcus Dinanga hit goals for fun at Telford United last term – a name to watch out for.
Key Players?
In fairness to Bates, he may well have found the new spine of his team in the form of Davies, Anderson, McLaughlin and Noble, players of considerable experience and quality at this level. Some quality players remain, mind. Scott Loach is arguably the finest goalkeeper in the division, Carl Magnay is a cult figure and the midfield still contains quality in the form of Nicky Featherstone, Michael Woods, Jack Munns and Ryan Donaldson. Dinanga and James may be looked for in an attack that doesn’t inspire, Jake Cassidy failling to hit the heights last term.
Where will Hartlepool United finish?
Judging Hartlepool is difficult given last season’s off-field issues and Matthew Bates being a novice to management. I don’t think they will struggle but promotion seems too distant. Top half.
Havant & Waterlooville
Last season?
Talk about riding the wave. Havant and Waterlooville were relegated in 2016 from the National League South but returned with a vengeance, securing back-to-back promotions as Champions. Sat 9th in October, The Hawks stepped up a gear and won 19 of their last 28 matches to secure the title ahead of a Dartford side that won each of their last nine matches. Lee Bradbury’s team were one game, two goals and three points behind Dartford with two games left to play but a 6-1 victory over East Thurrock United put them in the driving seat ahead of the final day of the season. A 3-2 victory over Concord Rangers was enough and The Hawks were in the National League for the first time in their history.
Who’s the boss?
The most enjoyable thing about Lee Bradbury‘s Wikipedia page is his playing position: Striker, Right-back. A stalwart of almost 500 Football League games, it says a lot for Bradbury’s qualities that while his goalscoring prowess wasn’t feared, he remained a trusted member of the squad under several different managers at various clubs. Eddie Howe’s departure allowed Bradbury his first test in management, one that was going well until a bad run of form in his second season allowed Howe back into the hotseat. His time at Havant and Waterlooville has been more successful, relegation being followed by back-to-back promotions that suggests when his boys get on a roll, they’re hard to stop.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Havant and Waterlooville have never played Solihull Moors in a competitive fixture.
Summer dealings?
Having seen the likes of AFC Fylde, Ebbsfleet United and Maidenhead United enjoy relative success with a lot of the squad that won promotion last season, Havant and Waterlooville have followed the same model making very few changes to their league winning side. They have lost 23-goal striker Jason Prior while Matt Tubbs and James Hayter have also moved on. Nicke Kabamba and Alfie Pavey hope to replace the goals of the aforementioned forwards having joined this summer while experience has been added in the form of ex-Millwall and AFC Wimbledon centre-back Paul Robinson. At 36, his leadership in the dressing room could be key.
Key Players?
Paul Robinson will come in as a dressing room leader and advisor for a squad full of tremendous experience. Goalkeeper Ryan Young is thriving aged 38 while captain Brian Stock has gotten over his injury problems to shine in midfield late in his career, not to mention 35-year-old Lee Molyneaux. As mentioned, Nicke Kabamba and Alfie Pavey will need to hit the ground running to replace Jason Prior. They will be supplied by Wes Fogden who has returned home to thrive following real injury problems elsewhere.
Where will Havant and Waterlooville finish?
A reliance on ageing players and the loss of 23-goal Jason Prior means Havant may struggle to replicate their success this term. Survival Battle.
Leyton Orient
Last season?
Last summer was all about ensuring Leyton Orient remained a football club so expectations were minimal for a club happy to be competing at all. That said, Martin Ling and Steve Davis brought in some well-known players from around the Football League yet they failed to deliver and Davis paid the price in November after an 11-game winless run. Justin Edinburgh lost game one at the ATG but soon turned things around – had the season started after his arrival, Leyton Orient would have finished just outside of the play-off positions with the best defensive record in the division.
Who’s the boss?
Justin Edinburgh appeared to be one of those managers destined to become a Championship mainstay with his brand of direct football proving fruitful at Fisher Athletic, Rushden and Diamonds, Newport County and, for a while, Gillingham. Then things started to unravel. His risky summer business went against him with the likes of Jay Emmanuel-Thomas failing to shine at The Gills while their hopes of a promotion turned into a fight against relegation. His time at Northampton Town didn’t go too well but Leyton Orient did improve under his tenure. The former FA Cup winner is starting all over again at 48.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Solihull Moors’ disastrous campaign ultimately began to turn in the home fixture against Leyton Orient. It was Justin Edinburgh’s first game in charge of the O’s but he would have been left despairing at an appalling display from his new troops as Liam Daly’s header secured a first victory for Mark Yates as Moors boss.
Summer dealings?
Either finances are minimal or Justin Edinburgh is genuinely happy with the side that he has at his disposal. Orient haven’t done much business this summer. They transfer-listed Rommy Boco, Christian Scales and Jake Caprice and managed to get rid of all of them by the time July came around. Dale Gorman adds youth to the midfield while James Alabi is a real powerhouse in attack. Otherwise, Orient will start the campaign with many of the same faces as last season.
Key Players?
The only place to start is Macauley Bonne. In a squad largely full of experience, the young legs of Bonne proved a huge bonus to Orient who would have been in serious trouble without his 22 goals – Jobi McAnuff was their second highest-goalscorer with six. McAnuff remains a pivotal figure despite being 36 while Joe Widdowson and Craig Clay fitted into the side nicely. James Alabi will be expected to take some of the burden off Bonne in attack while Edinburgh will hope Elokobi and Coulson can remain fit for the whole campaign.
Where will Leyton Orient finish?
I’m struggling to know what to make of Orient’s squad at this time with Alabi and Gorman the only additions to an underachieving side. The top-half is a possibility, mid-table feels like the safe option to go for.
Maidenhead United
Last season?
Maidenhead United had just about the most normal season of all of the newly-promoted sides, perhaps the entire division. At no point did Maidenhead ever look like going down or making the top seven. Their longest winless run was six matches, their longest unbeaten run was four matches. They were thumped 7-1 by Gateshead and 4-0 by Torquay United but thrashed AFC Fylde 4-1 and Bromley 5-2. Things may have been different had they been able to keep hold of Dave Tarpey, who will play against them for Barnet this season, but otherwise, Alan Devonshire’s side had a very strong opening campaign and they will hope to build upon a respectable 12th place finish.
Who’s the boss?
Alan Devonshire is still revered in East London for his 14-year spell at West Ham United during which he won the FA Cup (assisting Trevor Brooking’s winner) and promotion back to the top flight. He is often praised for his workmanlike attitude and that has been instilled into a Maidenhead United team he guided back into the top tier of non-league football. The 62-year-old has been a prominent fixture in non-league football since retiring from football and promotion with Hampton & Richmond proceeded his successful second spell with Maidenhead.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
In the National League, Boxing Day and New Year’s fixture are designed to keep clubs as close together as possible due to players often being part-time. Solihull Moors’ local derby? Maidenhead United. After a 1-0 defeat on Boxing Day, fans were treated to a game that had everything at the ATG. A wet afternoon on a soggy pitch didn’t help Adrian Clifton and Jamey Osborne who were both sent off following a first half that ended with the referee being booed by both sets of supporters. The second half brought about four goals, including Darren Carter’s goal-of-the-season contender and Oladapo Afolayan wonderful solo goal. A 3-1 victory for The Moors was their second in succession as they began to bridge the gap on Barrow.
Summer dealings?
Similarly to last summer, Alan Devonshire hasn’t felt the need to make wholesale changes to his squad. Harry Pritchard and Sam Barratt were allowed to make their dream moves into the Football League with Blackpool and Southend United, respectively while Jake Goodman moved on to FA Trophy finalists Bromley. Sean Marks and Jake Hyde leave a burly shaped forward hole in attack but neither provided the consistency required to allow Maidenhead to challenge the play-offs. That hole has been filled by Ryan Bird who scored 16 goals last term for Dover Athletic and he will be joined by Chester forward Akintunde in attack. Ayo Obileye improves the backline while Max Worsfold and Herson Alves will hope to make an impression.
Key Players?
It says a lot that Dave Tarpey only played 6 games for Maidenhead and finished up as their third top goalscorer. Admittedly, he netted 7 goals but only Adrian Clifton and now-departed Harry Pritchard could top him. Goals are required so Ryan Bird has a big task on his hands as Maidenhead’s leading man. Carl Pentney, Harold Odametey and Alan Massey are all mainstays, the latter will hope Obileye proves as consistent-a-partner as the departed Goodman.
Where will Maidenhead United finish?
Maidenhead have lost key players in Barrett and Pritchard and improvements to the team have been minimal. That said, there is a strong spine and they won’t be in danger of relegation. Mid-table.
Maidstone United
Last season?
Jay Saunders often comes across as a positive character and Maidstone United’s start to the season followed suit, sat in 5th position come mid-November after 18 games. The U’s wouldn’t win another game until winter was gone and spring had arrived. Starting against Solihull Moors, Maidstone picked up just seven points from 17 matches and dropped to within five points of the relegation places, knowing that The Moors were on their way out. It wasn’t a convincing end to the campaign but victories over Torquay United, Sutton United, AFC Fylde and Chester proved enough to secure survival.
Who’s the boss?
Jay Saunders remains as pivotal to Maidstone United’s rise as ever. The 39-year-old retired from football having never stepped out of the non-league scene but has done little to stop Maidstone rising up the divisions following their reintroduction back in the early 2000’s. He even took over the club’s academy at one point in order to aid both the club and his own work-life balance. The club have since gone full-time and Saunders’ task is bigger than ever. He will want to avoid another bottom half finish.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
In mid-April, Solihull Moors faced three games that would ultimate decide our National League fate. We overcame Hartlepool United in dramatic circumstances but would face Maidstone United without the services of key defenders Liam Daly and Jamie Reckord. Kristian Green returned to the team at left-back, George Carline slotted in at right-back for the first time in a Moors shirt and Tyrone Williams stepped up magnificently at centre-half, even scoring the game’s only goal. Another pivotal Moors victory.
Summer dealings?
Following a dramatic slide down the table during the second half of the season, Jay Saunders has elected to allow several players to leave. Chelmsford City didn’t help by taking Joe Anderson, Joe Wraight and Jai Reason but Alex Wynter, Magnus Okuonghae, Josh Hare and Delano Sam-Yorke have all gone. Alex Finney has signed permanently, a signing celebrated in Kent and he’s joined at the back by Will De Havilland, Michee Efete and George McLennan who was part of the Cheltenham Town promotion-winning side a few years back. Jordan Wynter boosts the midfield while Joe Quigley, Shamir Mullings and Andre Coker hope to fare better than a forward line that struggled badly following the departures of Zavon Hines and Joe Piggott.
Key Players?
The above means that goals are going to be key so all eyes are on Quigley, Mullings and Jamar Loza. Thankfully for Jay Saunders, he can rely on the leadership of captain Lee Worgan, full-back Ofori-Twumasi and midfielder Stuart Lewis. Alex Finney will be relied upon to set the standard at centre-half unless a new addition is on his way.
Where will Maidstone United finish?
Maidstone’s final position has owed a lot to a burst of form either at the end or beginning of the season. They may need a similar run to ensure their safety again. Survival Battle.
Salford City
Last season?
After two straight promotions, Salford finally hit a blip in 2016/17 when they finished 4th and lost out in the play-off semi-finals. There is no question that the club part-owned by the Class of 92 have become the non-league side to beat (alongside Billericay Town) but they gave few teams reasons to smile last term, winning the National League North title with 91 points – the most since Chester’s haul of 107 points in 2012/13. After going nine points clear in December, The Ammies slipped and lost top spot to Harrogate Town before winning nine of their final 13 matches to secure the title. They may not have scored the most goals or conceded the least, but Salford often found a way to win football matches and were rightly promoted as Champions.
Who’s the boss?
Graham Alexander was perhaps best-known for his penalty-taking exploits at Preston North End where he earned legendary status during ten seasons of service. Yet his career was an interesting one, starting out in the fourth-tier before eventually making the step into the Premier League at the age of 38 with Burnley. One of only three outfield players to make over 1000 appearances in competitive football for club and country, Alexander has enjoyed mixed success since becoming a manager, taking Fleetwood Town into League One before guiding Scunthorpe United towards the play-offs only to be sacked due to a run of eight games without a victory.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Salford City have never played Solihull Moors in a competitive fixture.
Summer dealings?
You may not have heard, but Salford City have signed Adam Rooney from Aberdeen for a big fee and he’s also on more money than he was in Scotland. To say Salford City and Graham Alexander are giving it a go would be an understatement. Danny Lloyd has received a pay-rise despite leaving League One Peterborough United and the big signings doesn’t stop there. Chris Neal, Scott Wiseman, Nathan Pond and Rory Gaffney have plenty of Football League experience while James Jones, Danny Whitehead, Jake Lawlor and Devante Rodney more than played their parts in National League sides last term. James Hooper is the one unknown, stepping up from Radcliffe Boro. Departures include Mike Phenix, Scott Burton, Jake Beesley, Ashley Hemmings (who only signed a month prior to his sale) and ex-Moors man Michael Nottingham who has joined League One Blackpool.
Key Players?
With the money spent on him, Adam Rooney is absolutely going to be the man to watch this season. Having hit double figures three seasons on the bounce in Scotland, the expectation is very much with him to fire Salford into the Football League. Predominantly, it is the new signings that will be relied on, Graham Alexander no doubt looking to lean on the experience of Neal, Pond, Gaffney and Wiseman to join Liam Hogan and Lois Maynard as leaders in the camp.
Where will Salford City finish?
I ummed and ahhed and ummed and ahhed some more. Alexander wil tighten the team defensively and there are goals aplenty. My concern is that full-time, and not part-time, sides will want to beat Salford City. A new pressure. Champions.
Sutton United
Last season?
Thanks to their FA Cup exploits, Paul Doswell was able to bring in real quality ahead of Sutton United’s 2017/18 National League campaign and from game three onwards, The U’s never once dropped outside of the top seven. In fact, for much of the season they were in contention for the title – even as late as mid-March they were within two points of a Macclesfield Town side putting together a remarkable stretch of form. Unfortunately, Sutton couldn’t do the same and a run of five defeats in seven left them clinging onto third spot – a position they only confirmed on the final day of the season. They had home advantage going into the play-off semi-final with Boreham Wood but lost 3-2, thus ending their Football League dream. At least for now…
Who’s the boss?
Paul Doswell‘s story was shared to millions after he guided Sutton United to an extraordinary FA Cup Fifth Round tie against Arsenal. The diehard Southampton supporter works for Sutton United for free as his company sponsors the club – he actually pays to work as manager of Sutton United football club. He’s clearly proven the man for the job, winning promotion to the National League and following mid-table consolidation with a 3rd place finish. The outspoken Southerner is hoping for a rule change that will allow 3G pitches in the Football League and ensure Sutton can remain at Gander Green Lane if they win promotion.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Sutton United were the last team to beat Solihull Moors prior to our final game of last season. The Moors hadn’t played almost three weeks due to bad weather and Bromley’s FA Trophy commitments and clearly rustiness played in the first of a run that would see us play five games in two weeks. Tom Bolarinwa’s first-half strike was enough to secure victory for the hosts who spent the last fifteen minutes playing against ten-men following Adi Yussuf’s red card.
Summer dealings?
Given their exploits last term, Paul Doswell is quite right to gradually improve his team rather than make wholesale changes ahead of the new campaign. Simon Walton has chased the money at Billericay Town and has been joined by Moses Emmanuel while Louis John has stepped into the Football League with Cambridge United. Dale Bennett and Dan Wishart have signed from Forest Green Rovers to improve the full-back positions (hopefully ensuring Nicky Bailey no longer has to cover) while Charlie Clough returns to the club after a spell at Barnet. Jonah Ayunga has signed from Brighton & Hove Albion in a bid to impress Chris Hughton.
Key Players?
Consistency was key last season for Sutton United and the same names are likely to play key roles again this term. Jamie Butler was a standout in goal with Jamie Collins, Kenny Davis and Craig Eastmond all valued members of the squad. Sutton do need a few more goals from their forwards but Tommy Wright broke out impressively last term while Tom Bolarinwa’s 7-goal haul after joining in January was impressive enough.
Where will Sutton United finish?
I’m still waiting for Sutton United to make a signing that has me believing they can replicate and maybe improve on last season. For now, a failed play-off push is on the cards. Top half.
Wrexham
Last season?
There are defensively well-drilled teams then there are Dean Keates’ 2017/18 Wrexham team. There is no question about it, Wrexham were extremely hard to beat. The problem was that they were painstakingly boring to watch and couldn’t put the ball in the back of the opposition net. Their 1-0 defeat of Solihull Moors in November put them top of the National League table after 21 matches yet they had scored just 20 goals – only the bottom three had scored less. Their inability to find the back of the net ultimately cost them as The Dragons failed to turn draws into victories – a 16-game unbeaten run between December 23rd and 30th March saw Wrexham win only 5 matches. Dean Keates departed to Walsall in March and Wrexham would only win once more, slipping to 10th and missing out on the play-offs. `
Who’s the boss?
Sam Ricketts is a familiar name to many Football League fans. The ex-Wales international was released by Oxford United as a youngster but made the step-by-step journey from Conference National side Telford United to the Premier League with Hull City inside six years. The ex-Swansea City, Bolton Wanderers and Coventry City full-backs won two promotions as a player and will hope his Football League experience will be advantageous in attempting to awake one of the best supported clubs in the National League.
How did their last meeting with Solihull Moors go?
Wrexham’s promotion push was hitting the buffers by the time they visited the ATG. A lack of goals were becoming detrimental to their campaign yet their organisation meant that despite plenty of huffing and puffing, Solihull Moors could not break a defensive wall led by Manny Smith and Shaun Pearson. Not a game for the neutral by any stretch of the imagination.
Summer dealings?
Another big club that have decided a clearout is necessary following a disappointing end to the season. Sam Ricketts’ first summer as a manager has seen him allow several bodies to move on including the experienced Sam Wedgbury, David Raven, Scott Boden and Marcus Kelly. Three permanent signings and five loans have helped re-build the squad. Luke Young, Mike Fondop-Talem and Luke Summerfield are the permanent additions, offering quality, power and experience individually. Rekeil Pyke, Freddie Hinds and Stuart Beavon hope to offer Wrexham more firepower (despite their 10th place finish, only four sides scored less than the Dragons) with Jordan Maguire-Drew hoping to cause havoc from wide positions while Rob Lainton replaces Chris Dunn in goal.
Key Players?
Without question, Manny Smith and Shaun Pearson are up there amongst the best central defensive partnerships in the National League. With James Jennings, Mark Carrington, Kevin Roberts and Paul Rutherford around, Sam Ricketts has a dressing room full of leaders that know how to grind out results. It’s the quality that is now required and Ricketts will be hoping Chris Holroyd can add to last season’s tally of 13 while Nicky Deverdics needs to step up.
Where will Wrexham finish?
There are certainly goals and leaders in the Wrexham side and they should be more fluent going forward than last season. Ricketts is new to management and for that reason, I’m saying mid-table.