First Division Season Preview
New names. Old scores. Fresh ambitions. The SCEFL First Division returns with 18 clubs all dreaming of promotion — and every one of them convinced this is their year.
SE Dons top the Prediction Polls after a strong debut season, but with relegated sides Lydd Town and Lordswood looking to bounce back, newcomers like AFC Greenwich Borough Banstead Athletic and Chessington & Hook shaking things up, and proven sides reloading across the board, nothing will come easy. One thing’s for sure: there are no passengers in this league.
Strap in — it’s going to be wild.
AFC Greenwich Borough may have been a surprise inclusion in this year’s First Division line-up, but with Reece Parara in the dugout, a strong leadership team and a well-balanced squad, they could prove to be one of the season’s dark horses.
“Preparations have been very positive overall. Pre-season has allowed us to implement our playing philosophy, build fitness, and integrate new signings into the group. The friendly results have been mixed in terms of scorelines, but the performances have shown clear progression week by week, which is what we’re most focused on at this stage.”
Their squad has a nice blend of potential and pedigree, with continuity and competition across the pitch.
“We’re pleased with the squad. There’s a good balance of youth and experience, and the competition for places is healthy — which is vital over the course of a long season. We feel we’re in a good position heading into the campaign.”
The fixture list starts with a fellow newcomer — but the plan is to start as they mean to go on.
“There are no easy games at this level. Chessington & Hook are also new to the league — we look forward to welcoming them for our first competitive fixture at this level. We’ve got some tough fixtures early on, but it’s a great opportunity to set the tone. We’ll approach each game with respect but also belief in what we’re building here. The early challenges will give us a good indication of where we are and where we need to improve.”
AFC Greenwich’s ambitions are clear — play the right way, entertain and challenge.
“Internally, we’ve set our standards high. We’re aiming to be competitive in every game and to be pushing at the right end of the table. Ultimately, we want to play a brand of football that our supporters can be proud of, and we believe if we stay consistent, the results will follow.”
On the rest of the division, they’re expecting the unexpected.
“There’s a lot of quality across the league this year. A few clubs have recruited well and will be strong, but it’s an unpredictable division — momentum and squad unity often go a long way. We expect it to be tight at both ends of the table, and consistency will be the key factor for anyone hoping to be in the mix.”
And as they embark on their first SCEFL adventure, they’re keen to make the right impression.
“We look forward to welcoming officials, players and supporters throughout the league this season. We hope we bring a positive approach to the SCEFL League for the 2025/26 season.”
Of all the stories heading into the new Southern Counties East Football League First Division season, Banstead Athletic’s might just be the most inspiring.
They’re newcomers to the division, but their journey here has already been a remarkable one. Following the sudden passing of club stalwart Terry, and the subsequent loss of their home ground, Banstead’s very future hung in the balance. But thanks to the relentless efforts of Gary Grabban —who stepped up last May—the club was not only saved, but brought home.
“This season is shaping up to be the most exciting that Banstead Athletic FC has had in many years!
We’ve overcome some major hurdles just to get to this point, we almost didn’t make it.
After Terry’s unexpected passing, Gary stepped in to take the reins in May last year. At the same time, we lost our home ground. We managed to survive last season by ground-sharing with one of our fellow league competitors.”
“An incredible amount of hard work, more than you’d believe, went into fighting to get our home back. We battled the Council and other eager, interested parties who had eyes on our site. Gary gave it everything he had. And he did it. He brought us home.”
That emotional return has sparked a complete rebuild of the club from top to bottom.
“The preparations for BAFC have been huge, not just for the team, but in bringing the Club back to life. Terry saved BAFC from closure more than 30 years ago. Now, Gary is reigniting it. We’re all incredibly excited for our new league opponents to witness the literal ground-up transformation our whole team has contributed to.”
There’s new coaching staff, renewed energy, and a blend of experience and youth on the pitch.
“Our two new coaches, Ean and Barry, have brought fresh energy and structure to Keith’s vision as Manager. The squad is a powerful blend of solid returning players from last season and some exciting new talent. Our pre-season friendlies have already shown that this new team is capable of playing spectacular football, and given our coaches a strong foundation to build on.”
As they prepare for their SCEFL debut, there’s a sense of fearless optimism in the camp.
“We’re really looking forward to showing this new league what we’re bringing. New teams, new clubs, new areas to travel to… and our mindset? Pure optimism. This is a fresh start. We’re almost brand new again! Will this give us that underdog status? Maybe. The other teams may remember who we were, but this is a new BAFC. There’s a fire here now. And it’s exciting.”
Their mission this season is crystal clear.
“Our aim this season is simple: to give it absolutely everything. We haven’t fought this hard to get our home back just to lose it again.”
“We know there are some strong teams in this league. And honestly? It could go any way. It’s a new and exciting time. Like the start of any season, but this time, with Gary in the chair, Keith leading the charge, our coaching and management team in place, and especially with our community behind the boys…
We’re Onwards and Upwards!!”
Excitement is building at Bridon Ropes ahead of a season that carries real significance for the club — their 90th year in existence — and manager Lee Roots is relishing the challenge of building something special on and off the pitch.
“Preparations have gone excellent throughout the off-season and importantly pre-season. Some really exciting changes behind the scenes at the club during the off-season period with a new chairman installed, brand new sponsors plus much more which are now all on board at the club. This is the club’s 90th year anniversary and it is always a huge honour to be managing a club that has so much history behind it.”
“The positive changes behind the scenes have allowed us within pre-season to work with the players with a much greater and wider resource in regards to training and planning. This has already had and shown a dramatic positive effect within the group’s work, which has been evident so far in pre-season games. We purposely set up a very strong pre-season campaign of games all against Step 5 clubs, with our last game being against a Step 6 like ourselves. This has really put us in great stead and allows me to measure and gauge exactly where the squad needs to be as we now move into the start of the new season.”
On the playing front, Roots is pleased with his summer business, adding quality and depth to a retained core from last year.
“Yes, I have retained the nucleus of the squad that I wanted to remain with us from last season. We needed to add new blood and new talent into the team going into this season to now take the club and team one step further on than what we achieved last year. Player recruitment is always a crucial and key part of any manager’s preparations and I’ve been delighted that we have been able to secure the players we have highlighted, approached and signed.”
“Again, this comes down to the positive changes behind the scenes at the club, but this also reflects the high level and detailed amount of coaching that we present weekly to all players — to consistently improve their own talents and game but also create a greater game understanding for every player at the club.”
Bridon begin their campaign against SC Thamesmead, and while there’s mutual respect, Roots is hoping to maintain a strong personal record in that fixture.
“SCT will be a whole new side with a whole new management team this season. Myself and the club have a great record against SCT as a club, so we hope this fixture will continue in this fashion. We respect every opponent we face and opening day of the season is an exciting time for everyone involved with football clubs. We expect a tough game and we are very well prepared and extremely excited to lock horns with SCT.”
So what’s the goal for the season?
“Of course at the start of the season everyone is chasing the same goal. Always striving to do better than the season before is a common goal for all clubs in non-league. We did really well last season on the pitch, all whilst working under extreme restrictions on and off the pitch as a club.”
“This season we no longer face that issue. Our pitch is the best it’s ever looked and is arguably the best pitch in the league. We have great backing from all at the club and we will now look to take Bridon up the leagues, on to long cup runs and into cup finals as we look to continue the work we have already done so far at the club. This year we certainly intend to be the true underdogs of the division.”
Rootsy also offered a wider take on the league’s shifting landscape:
“Always tough to call this especially when every year at the moment there seems to be two or three teams moving laterally into our division from other leagues. These are clubs that have not been promoted or relegated, but yet they have that dynamic of having to adapt, learn and perform in a new division. There are big clubs that have now come down from the division above and this year no clubs have progressed upwards from the Kent County League. I think this all bodes for a really exciting season all round!”
And finally, a heartfelt message from the boss on the occasion of Bridon’s special milestone year:
“I would like to personally thank our new chairman Mick for his incredible support and attention to detail in a way I have never seen before. Also to our committee members who all have a new bounce in their step and week on week are absolutely fantastic to myself, my staff and my players. We celebrate the club’s 90th year anniversary and this highlights to me all of the great people that have gone before us at the club. We will strive every week to be the best we can be and look to deliver new success to Bridon. Good luck to everyone and safe wishes.”
After four years away, Chessington & Hook United make their return to the SCEFL and Manager Glynn Stephens has been busy preparing for the unknown by overseeing a detailed and focused pre-season.
“Pre-season started in the middle of June to allow for a total of 20 sessions, made up of training and friendlies before the competitive games get under way on August 2,” he explained. “The games themselves gave us the opportunity to condition the players to be ready to play a full 90 minutes, to look at a number of players who had come to the club by invitation and to integrate some of our last year Under-18s into the senior set-up. The results weren’t important but across all the games there were wins, draws and losses.”
There’s been some minor reshuffling, but the spine of the squad remains intact.
“All of last year’s squad returned, although we have now released three. With seven coming in and the promotion of some of our Under-18s, the squad has a greater depth to it this time round.”
Familiarity with the division is in short supply — which makes the opening stretch a complete leap into the unknown.
“Being new to the league, we have no knowledge of any of this year’s opponents, but would expect all of them to be competitive and difficult to play against.”
As for ambitions? Chessington have been knocking on the door of the play-offs in the Southern Combination League — and would love to take the next step — though logistical challenges could play a part.
“Having gone close to the play-offs in the Southern Combination League in the last two seasons, it would be nice to go one better, but it remains to be seen how we are affected by our move into this league in terms of player availability for the away games.”
One thing’s certain — the team won’t be short on effort.
“We will look to be competitive every time we play and have a group with sufficient depth to allow that. It remains to be seen where we will be in the league — with all options on the table at the moment. Ten games in we will know more, and that will determine our targets for the season.”
Croydon are a team many have tipped for a title push this season, and with joint managers Alex White and Ryan Watts having now had a full pre-season with the squad, the Trams look ready to hit the ground running.
“After joining in January, it’s been great to have got a pre-season under our belt and work with the team,” they told us. “The boys have worked extremely hard, and we have taken so many positives out of the fixtures we’ve had. We decided to really challenge ourselves — only one game was against a side from a lower step, with the rest against Step 4 and Step 5 clubs. Not that results are key this time of year, but we only lost once.”
There’s a real sense of continuity and ambition in the camp, with the core of last season’s side retained and several eye-catching additions brought in despite interest from higher divisions. “We’ve added some real quality to the group. We’ve beaten off higher opposition to sign exciting prospects and believe the squad is stronger now than when we finished last season.”
Croydon open the campaign against fellow promotion hopefuls Rochester United and SE Dons — a tough start, but one they welcome. “The start of the season definitely presents some big challenges, we face Rochester and SE Dons, two teams who will be expecting to win the league this season – so it’s a good measure to see how we compare to against the leagues big spenders.”
After a storming end to last season hopes are high for a strong campaign. “The aims for the season are pretty clear, we had a wonderful 15 games last season where we only lost 1 game – that’s in the past now, but we simply want to continue that form. now our job to try and reach those levels again. The boys have set the benchmark, and its now our job to try and reach those levels again. The disappointment of losing in the play offs last year has only motivated us even more to go one step further”
Confidence is quietly building around FC Elmstead after a well-managed pre-season that combined high-level tests with late momentum — and a squad that’s looking strong, settled, and ready for the challenge ahead.
“Preparations have gone well,” said a member of the Brehn Chidley’s management team. “We feel we’ve had a positive pre-season and are looking forward to the season kicking off. We played seven fixtures — five against teams at least one step higher than ourselves — with results not always reflecting how we played in the games.”
That patience was rewarded late in the summer schedule.
“As our pre-season progressed, our performances started to yield better results, winning our last two friendlies, against Sutton Athletic 4–1 and finishing our pre-season with a 4–0 away win at Sevenoaks Town Reserves.”
The squad has remained largely intact — with smart additions rather than sweeping changes.
“With a largely retained squad we have been selective with who has come in and feel the additions we have made have positively impacted the squad, increasing competition for places and providing stronger depth. A few have moved on who we were disappointed to lose, but that’s part and parcel of it all. Overall, we are feeling very positive about the squad we have assembled being able to achieve our goal of improving on last season.”
The season starts with a bang — hosting title favourites SE Dons — but Elmstead aren’t shrinking from the spotlight.
“On paper, we probably couldn’t have asked for a tougher start as we face everybody’s ‘League Favourites’ SE Dons in our first game, but the game being at home for us and the fact the same fixture saw us victorious last season allows us to feel quietly confident that we can cause them enough problems to be in with a shout.”
And the fixture list gets kinder after that, with plenty of early opportunities to make ground.
“Following that fixture, we will look to capitalise on four of our next five league games being at home also, which is rare but provides a good opportunity to put points on the board early in front of a home crowd. Anticipated tough trips away to Lydd in the league and Saltdean United in the FA Vase conclude August and take us into September — where a rare early season opportunity to win silverware presents itself in the form of the Roy Vinter Respect Charity Shield vs Whitstable Town (6th September).”
The season’s aims are simple and sensible — but quietly ambitious.
“Our aims for this season aren’t that big or expansive. We are aiming simply to score more and concede less than we did last term, and in doing so hope this will be enough to see us improve our points tally and league position. Who knows — if the league pans out anything like it did last season, we may even be in with a shout of pinching a play-off place.”
When it comes to wider predictions, the Elmstead camp sees a more open title race than many are expecting.
“Contrary to what appears to be popular opinion, we see the league as the most competitive it’s been in some years — with no clear favourite. The sides coming down from Step 5, Lydd and Lordswood, we fancy will have rebuilt well and will be up there challenging — as well as the usual suspects that were up there all of last season. Tough to predict what Banstead, Chessington & Hook and AFC Greenwich Borough will bring, but early season results will give everyone a better idea of what’s in store — and we can’t wait for it to start!”
And a classy sign-off, as Elmstead look forward to the season ahead:
“We would like to take the chance to thank all of our sponsors and supporters for their continued support, welcome those that are new to us and the league, and wish everybody the best of luck with the coming season. Let’s hope we can all continue to contribute to make the Southern Counties East Football League the most competitive of Step 5 and 6 leagues in the country.”
There’s been a quiet confidence about Greenways during the off-season, with manager Andy Pierce steering his side through a productive summer both on and off the pitch. While results in pre-season have fluctuated, performances — and preparation — have laid a solid foundation for the campaign ahead.
“Preparations have gone smoothly from a footballing point of view. As is often the case in pre-season, results have varied, but the overall performances have been encouraging. The group has worked hard both on the training ground and behind the scenes to ensure we’re in the best possible shape heading into the new campaign.”
Despite operating without a budget, Greenways have been proactive in the transfer market, and the squad now features a healthy blend of youth and experience.
“We’ve been busy over the summer trying to recruit without a budget but due to great work in that area we have been able to bring in a good number of players to strengthen the squad. There’s a nice balance now — some exciting young talent mixed with experienced heads — all of whom have settled in really well alongside the lads we’ve retained from last year.”
Pierce knows there are no easy games in this division, especially in the opening stages when everyone’s looking to make an early statement.
“Every fixture in this division presents a challenge, and we’re not underestimating anyone. The opening games are always tough as teams look to start strong, and we expect nothing less from the sides we’re up against early on.”
When it comes to aims, Greenways are focused on the short-term — but with a point to prove.
“Right now, our focus is on hitting the ground running and building momentum. We’re not looking too far ahead — just concentrating on each game as it comes.”
“It’s shaping up to be another tight, competitive season. Plenty of teams have done good business over the summer, and the overall quality looks very strong again. Our goal is simple: be better than we were last season and prove a few people wrong along the way.”
And finally, a word from the manager to his fellow clubs and league:
“Just to wish all the clubs the very best for the season ahead and to thank everyone involved in the league for their ongoing efforts — it’s massively appreciated. We’re really looking forward to another exciting year in the SCEFL.”
Halls AFC enter the new campaign with cautious optimism and an impressive home to call their own. While pre-season has seen its usual chaos — trialists, holidays, and the ever-shifting puzzle of a settled squad — Manager, George Michaelas feels they’ve emerged in decent shape.
“Preseason as always is a mixed bag with lots of trialists and players on holiday,” said the Halls boss. “Two creditable draws with Step 5 sides, a win against a Step 6 Essex side and a win against a combined Dartford XI followed by two defeats to Step 7.”
There’s been some strengthening over the summer, with George adding:
“We’ve added some experience to the squad and also some exciting young players.”
The fixture computer handed Halls two home games to kick things off — a welcome introduction to their new ground — but the early schedule quickly ramps up.
“Happy with two home games at our new ground to start the season and then away to SE Dons and Greenways over the Bank Holiday… so a tough start to the season, but there’s no easy games in this league.”
As for ambitions, there’s a clear focus on stability first — but eyes are peeking higher.
“Like everyone, we’re hoping firstly to avoid relegation, and with us playing at such a great home ground, if we can settle there we are hoping for playoffs.”
George is also realistic about the scale of competition this year:
“Obviously with the money around — we don’t have a player budget — you’d expect the likes of SE Dons, Lydd Town, Lordswood and Elmstead, to name a few, to be right up there challenging.”
Lewisham Borough head into the new season with plenty of fresh energy, a long pre-season under their belts, and a squad brimming with new faces all eager to impress.
“Results have been average by our standards but prep has been good, as we started early and have had a long pre-season,” said manager Lloyd Davis, who’s hoping the early groundwork pays off when the real action begins.
“We have a lot of new faces which is exciting as they are all raring to go.”
There’s no easing in either, with Lewisham on the road to Greenways, Halls and Greenwich Borough early doors.
“All of the teams are experienced and most know the league well, so we have to have our wits about us, but we know what to expect.”
As for targets this season? The brief is clear and consistent:
“The aim is to finish as high in the league as possible – as always.”
And like many in the division, Davis is expecting fireworks in a league that could throw up surprises each week.
“I see the league being very exciting this year especially because of the new additions, as we know anyone can win it.”
After tasting relegation for the first time in their history, Lordswood are determined to make sure their stay in the First Division is a brief one. Big changes have followed a tough campaign, with the club restructuring both on and off the pitch to prepare for the challenge ahead.
“Following the disappointment of relegation last season for the first time in the history of the club, we have had to rethink our strategy for the coming season,” explained club secretary Steve Lewis.
That rethink has led to a refreshed management setup, with experienced names now at the helm.
“The management team we set up at the end of last season will take us forward, with Scott Porter, Mark Lane and the addition of Shaun Welford, Dillon Rogers and Stewart Wickham. Pre-season has gone to plan with up and down results as we settle the squad for the new season.”
A near-total squad rebuild has taken place — but the optimism is clear.
“We have retained very few of the players from last season, but the new additions we believe will provide us with an exciting and competitive team to push for a top 3 spot in the league and an opportunity to bounce back to the Premier Division.”
Lordswood know they won’t have it easy, with several sides expected to challenge for promotion, but they’re confident in their preparations.
“The league will be very competitive and a number of teams will have similar ambitions as we do, and we are well placed for those challenges.”
Off the pitch, too, there’s plenty to be excited about at Martyn Grove.
“There are lots of exciting things both on and off the pitch. The club will continue with our U23 side in the Development League and now provide a pathway for development within our youth section ultimately into the first team. Plans for the ground are also moving forward and further news on this will be available in the next few months.”
It’s been far from a routine pre-season for Lydd Town. The drama from last season caused a hangover which left the club playing catch-up in the early stages of summer, but new manager Dexter Gondongwe has wasted no time in getting to work.
“Preparations for us haven’t been ideal,” he admitted. “Essentially we were two weeks or so behind everyone due to the issues surrounding what division we would be competing in. However, once we got going, training twice a week and playing our pre-season fixtures, the lads have shown great commitment and desire to make sure we are ready once the season starts.”
With relegation bringing inevitable change, this is very much a new-look Lydd side, with almost the entire previous squad moving on. Gondongwe has responded with a full rebuild and is putting his faith in youth.
“At the current time all but one of last season’s squad have left to play in Step 4 or Step 5, so the squad has had to be completely rebuilt. We’ve managed to attract some really good young players. We’re hoping to add one or two more experienced players just to make sure we can achieve the goals we’ve set.”
While the fixture list offers a challenging start, a run of home games presents an opportunity to settle quickly.
“It’s a tough start to the season for us, however we have a good stretch of home games so it will be nice to try and make the Lindsey Field a fortress again! One aspect this season will be the lack of local derbies—our nearest opponents being Staplehurst Monarchs—but we’ve long trips into Surrey and London to look forward to.”
As for ambitions, Gondongwe is focused on building a strong identity and a side that punches above its inexperience.
“To aim is to be the best coached, organised side in the league. I believe with the group we have—who are all willing to learn—if we can add a little more experience then everything else should hopefully fall into place.”
And when it comes to predicting the wider picture, there’s one team that stands out.
“It’s difficult to look past SE Dons with their budget as well as the quality of players at the manager’s disposal. New teams such as Banstead, Chessington and AFC Greenwich will be unknowns, whilst Lordswood will be looking to bounce back.”
There’s a buzz building at Rochester United. After a solid pre-season, a refreshed coaching setup and some eye-catching attacking options, the Spartans look primed for a big campaign — both on and off the field.
“Some ups, some downs,” said Operations Director Mark Wilson, when looking back at their pre-season. “We’ve experimented with some tactical changes, swapped in and out players, and we have ended up with two wins and two losses against Step 5 opposition. The last game against Cuxton, the boys were solid and it’s always great to score and keep a clean sheet. One more to go on Thursday against Ide Hill and then we’re off to Croydon. Up the Spartans!!”
There’s been some careful evolution over the summer. The club’s core has stayed intact, while new energy has arrived in the dugout and on the pitch.
“We’ve kept the nucleus of what was a strong side and added some good players and additions alongside a new coaching team, with Bettsy, Wellsy and Hich. We are looking forward to growing together.”
Up front, the signs are encouraging — with last season’s Golden Boot winner staying put, and a few fresh faces ready to make their mark.
“Mack got the Golden Boot last year and we’re thrilled to not only keep him but also add Luke Adams alongside Jack Nelson. At the end of the day, when you start out playing this game, the thing we all want to do is score goals. It’s certainly going to be entertaining — and when you have excitement, you get and keep crowds and grow together!”
The fixture list hasn’t done them too many favours early on, but Rochester will take it all in their stride.
“It’s the first time that we’ve been drawn away for the start of the season for a while and it’s a tough start for us to visit Croydon. Banstead at home next — a new team, so no prior — and again a good test. Looking forward then to our friends at Lydd. We both would have preferred different outcomes last season off the field, but we have to put that behind us now, no matter how tough that was to take. Bridon Ropes, Staplehurst Monarchs — where we look forward to seeing Ian Docker come back to Rochester — and then Lewisham, all good games. There are no easy ones.”
The aim this year? Build, progress, and see what the new management setup can deliver.
“We’d like to think that we can build on where we were last season. We have a new management team bedding in and we are looking forward to seeing what they will do.”
Looking across the division, Rochester expect familiar faces and new forces to be in the mix.
“Hard to look past SE Dons — if they can keep the momentum going that they had last year. We cannot wait to visit the new ground — they should be in with a shout at the end. Our local rivals now too — those games should be bangers.”
“Last year we beat both Lydd and Lordswood in cups so we know we have the firepower on our day. Both will want to get back to where they were. Of the rest, Croydon, Bridon, Sheppey, ourselves — we’d expect to see in the mix.”
And behind the scenes, things are thriving.
“There’s a great vibe going down at The Spartans. From the youth setup, through KYL and the first team, we’ve never attracted so much interest in sponsorship. We were thrilled to sign our first team deal with Rochester Utilities — who we believe blend our core strengths and interest in the community — and alongside all our other sponsors, will take us to new heights. Cannot wait to welcome everyone to the Rochester Utilities Stadium — it’s where we grow Spartans!!”
With joint managers Ben Williams and Craig Penfold steering the ship, SC Thamesmead enter the new season with quiet confidence and a clear plan. Pre-season began earlier than usual this year, a deliberate move to set the tone and integrate new arrivals with the returning core.
“In all it has been a positive pre-season. We started a week, maybe two earlier this time round than we usually do, as we wanted to get the squad in and lay our foundations down—which the old and new boys have all took on board.
Results in games have been as expected: good workouts against higher opposition and good dominant performances, bar one, against teams we should be competing with.”
Continuity has been key, with the squad’s spine remaining in place and attacking reinforcements added.
“We decided to keep the core of our team from last year and add new quality players around it, especially in the forward areas.”
Thamesmead kick off their campaign at home against a strong Bridon Ropes side, and the management duo are relishing the early challenges.
“Very much looking forward to welcoming Bridon Monday night for the season opener. They are a well-established team in this league with quality all over the pitch. We will be well prepared for what I’m sure will be a great game.
We have some cracking fixtures to look forward to in the coming month—Sheppey, Lordswood, SE Dons—big teams that we look forward to competing with.”
Their goals for the season are grounded in consistency, professionalism, and building a team that truly represents the club.
“To compete every week, run the team/club with the chairman as professionally as we can, have a hard-working, organised outfit that play with a purpose and want to play for us and the club week in, week out.”
As for how the league might unfold? It’s anyone’s guess.
“Hard to call—as you can tell from last year, anything can happen in this division. A lot of good quality sides that, on their day, can compete against anyone.”
Few teams arrive into the new season with more eyes on them than SE Dons. Backed by a huge following and a growing reputation, the club enter their second SCEFL campaign as favourites in the pre-season prediction poll — and for good reason.
Last year saw the Dons go agonisingly close to promotion, falling short in the play-off final via penalties against SOUL Tower Hamlets. It was one of three near-misses, with two further cup final defeats adding to the frustration of an otherwise impressive campaign.
This time around, manager Antonio Gonnella will be hoping to turn potential into silverware. With the bar already set high, manager Antonio Gonnella has overseen a summer of evolution, not revolution.
“It’s been great to get back into pre-season and work with a new-look squad. We have added experience and quality to the side and are ready for the campaign to start.”
While the core remains, there’s a refreshed feel about the Dons—on and off the pitch. A move to Chatham Town’s 4G stadium provides a first-class base for them to operate from.
“Yeah, we have a new identity this season and the new home ground will allow us to implement this. And like I’ve mentioned, we have added some great talents to the group.”
There’s no hesitation when it comes to setting the season’s objective.
“I think there will be some very tough games this season. Everyone seems to have recruited well but our aim as a club and for myself is to win the league.”
As for how the rest of the division will shape up? Gonnella is cautious, but excited.
“It’s tough to say at this point. Some very good teams in the league this season. New teams in the league make it exciting and a bit of an unknown territory.”
But whatever lies ahead, he knows one thing for sure—SE Dons aren’t doing it alone.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported the club’s journey and mine. Our supporters make every fixture exciting and I want to repay them with trophies.”
Having reached the play-offs last year, Sheppey Sports return with a renewed sense of purpose and a belief they can go even further this time around. Club secretary Ben Brennan gave us the lowdown on pre-season preparations—and what might make the difference this year.
“Pre-season has gone well, we’ve given good accounts of ourselves against higher opposition and won games against the sides we’d expect to beat. We were lucky to be able to retain a majority of last season’s squad that achieved the play-offs and added in areas we felt needed strengthening and maybe a bit more depth.”
One key area the club has addressed is in front of goal, with two prolific forwards added to a side already known for creating chances.
“For the last two seasons we’ve had no problems scoring goals but both seasons without anyone really standing out as our main goalscorer. We’ve brought in Patrick Ward, who had a great season in front of goal last year for Bridon Ropes, and hope he can do the same for us, and Lewis Sharp who managed 54 goals last season across Step 7 & U23s football. We’re hoping both can hit the ground running as they have done in pre-season and we can start stronger than we did last season.”
Defensively, there’s been steady progress—and hopes for more.
“On the flip side, we’ve struggled to keep goals out both of the last two seasons, but we had a huge improvement last year. We want to improve on that again, and if we can do so we stand a great chance of pushing for promotion once again.”
They begin their campaign with a trip to newly-promoted AFC Greenwich Borough, but an uneven early fixture schedule presents both challenges and opportunities.
“We start against an unknown AFC Greenwich Borough side but a week later than most of the league. This will give us a chance to find out a bit about them and approach the game with a good plan, but we have a bit of a staggered start to the season with three weekends with no game in our first six. Only time will tell if this is a blessing or a curse, but we’re confident in being able to beat anyone in this league on our day and excited to get going.”
As for the wider landscape, Brennan sees plenty of potential contenders—and expects Kent clubs to play a major role in shaping the season.
“Overall I think it will be a bit of a tough year to predict once again, with AFC Greenwich Borough, Banstead Athletic and Chessington & Hook all pretty unknown, both Lydd and Lordswood much changed and looking to go straight back up, and the London-based sides with such a large pool of players—it’s very tough to judge. You’d have to expect SE Dons to be up there again, and both Rochester United & Greenways have recruited well. I think we can join them and hopefully see the Kent-based sides all pushing for promotion come April.”
There’s been a full reset at Staplehurst Monarchs this summer, with manager Ian Docker now tasked with rebuilding from the ground up — but despite the challenges, the energy around the club is quietly optimistic.
“Preparation has been tough due to holidays, work commitments and having to build a squad from scratch, but the players have worked incredibly hard over the pre-season,” said Docker. “Even though results aren’t the main concern at this stage, JD and myself have been pleased with our progress.”
Only a few players have remained from last season, but those who stayed have impressed.
“The few players that have remained have been brilliant in their patience and attitude and I’m very grateful for that. We have a young squad, raw, but very enthusiastic, which makes coaching them much easier. They are sure to make mistakes but they will need to learn from them quickly to survive in this very tough league.”
There are no easy games in the SCEFL First Division, and Ian knows the challenge ahead will require both grit and growth.
“I respect all the teams and managements in this league so every game is going to be a tough encounter. As for our aim this season, it will be the same as everyone else — to gain as many points as possible with the players you have available. And if we are beaten by a better team on the day, then the congratulations go to them.”
When it comes to predicting the bigger picture, Docker is leaving that to others:
“As I’ve mentioned above, it’s a tough league — varying budgets, and a lot of good experienced players in the teams. I will let you guys make the predictions!”
And with a parting message, Ian summed up the spirit of the competition:
“Finally, I wish all teams the best of luck.”
There’s a quietly confident tone coming out of the Tooting Bec camp as James Parsons prepares to lead his side into the new campaign. After a strong pre-season that’s seen them hold their own against higher level opposition, optimism is building.
“We have looked good,” said Parsons. “We have beaten or more than competed with a number of Step 5 teams. The team has grown and is looking strong.”
Continuity is clearly a strength for Bec, with the core of the squad retained from last season and a few well-placed additions to bolster key areas.
“We have kept the vast majority of the squad and added where we have needed to. We have a good, strong foundation and an exciting forward line.”
The early fixtures offer a balanced test, and Parsons is looking forward to renewing old rivalries as they kick off their campaign.
“A good start, it’s a good mix of teams. It will be good to see some familiar faces.” with Staplehurst Monarchs, Greenways and Lordswood among Bec’s early opponents.
As for expectations, Tooting Bec are keeping things grounded but ambitious—focusing on growth, development, and proving themselves across the season.
“We have a squad we feel can compete this season but it needs to prove itself in competition.”
Parsons expects a fiercely contested division this time around.
“It will be tighter than people think. I believe the standard across the league will be high and teams will take points off each other.”
“We are excited to see how the season goes. At this stage, there is a lot of opportunity for a lot of teams. The first ten games are important for all.”
Stability, strength, and something to prove — Welling Town head into the new campaign with optimism and a touch of defiance, ready to show just how far they’ve come since last season’s full-scale rebuild.
“Preparations have gone well,” said Chairman and Manager Kevin Oakes. “Recruitment is key at any level and we’ve put together what everyone inside our camp agrees is a strong squad with a large portion of them with a point to prove at this level of football — and that goes for myself, management, the experienced lads who have played higher, and the newbies to the level. All, across the board, are excited for what’s about to start.”
Pre-season performances have offered encouragement, with goals flowing and belief building.
“Friendly results have been promising — we beat a Step 5 side (Romford) and took another (Eastbourne United) very close to the wire with limited numbers. We’re scoring lots of goals and playing attractive football, which win, lose or draw, is what you enjoy about a football match.”
The backroom team remains in place, a source of pride and passion for Oakes.
“The management team has been retained — I must thank them all personally. I’ve never enjoyed my football so much as when working alongside them, and we all complement each other well.”
The squad has evolved too, with half retained and half refreshed — a blend Kevin believes will pay dividends.
“Clearly we weren’t good enough last year but that was expected after a total rebuild. Now, with some stability, we are in a much better place. We’ve retained a decent core of the squad, as well as added some real quality in key areas, and we’ll be infinitely better on and off the field as a result. The names might not be known to many as yet, but they will be once they start doing the business.”
Welling begin the campaign against two familiar faces — and two strong contenders.
“Early opponents of Lordswood, with at least two ex-Boots, and Elmstead with loads of ex-management and players, bring tough tests we look forward to. As sides likely to be up there this season, we know if we perform well against them we’ll be in a good place quickly.”
Expectations are realistic but ambitious.
“Our aim is to play good football and enjoy doing so, win more than we lose, and to finish nearer the top than the bottom — normal, realistic expectations. But if we get off to a good start, well, who knows. The second target being to prove all the doubters wrong — and as it looks right now, that should be the easier part.”
Oakes also paid tribute to key players from last season who’ve moved on.
“There are too many to mention individually, but a special thank you for time served to Deji Owoeye (now Rusthall) and Alfie Curnow (now Croydon), who were with us for 18 months during tough times and stood tall and supported myself personally, and the club, without hesitation. Thank you, gentlemen.”
As for the wider title race?
“It will be an interesting league. Now SE Dons have a 4G pitch I’d expect them to be the side to beat — and I’m sure I’m not alone in that — but I think there will be a lot of sides fancying themselves for play-off places. As to whether we’re one of them? We’ll leave that for others to judge — and perhaps more appropriately, the 90 minutes each weekend to be the decider, not some troll with a Twitter account.”
And yes — no social media stat-hunting here.
“We won’t be sending attendance numbers to random Twitter people either. If you love non-league football enough to do attendance stats, do yourself and the clubs a favour — get down to a game, pay a few quid, and watch and count them up for yourself.”
Welling are clearly ready for action — and up for a bit of fun along the way.
“Good luck to all sides this season. We look forward to renewing some rivalries, meeting some new opponents, and visiting new grounds. A special good luck to those that make the effort to smile, say hello, have a chat, and to behave in the same manner during the game as they do before and after.”
And a final word for the officials…
“You didn’t ask for comments on referees, Dean? Good luck to them too — we’ll be better, hope you will be as well.”
And there we have it.
You have heard from the teams. You have made your predictions. It’s time to kick this Division off.
Whether your team is chasing promotion or dodging the drop. Whether you are just here for the Twitter meltdowns or for the 40-yard screamers — welcome back to the madness.
The SCEFL First Division is open for business.
All clubs were asked for content for this preview.
FIRST DIVISION PREDICTION POLL
