Football Season Guide

Bromley created club history after sealing promotion to the Football League for the first time back in May. The South Londoners are four-time Isthmian League Champions and three-time F.A. Amateur Cup winners. They have also lifted the F.A. Trophy but this is undoubtedly their greatest ever achievement. The Ravens beat Solihull Moors in a penalty shoot-out following a 2-2 draw in the National League play-off final at Wembley. It was a huge personal achievement for manager Andy Woodman, after three years in charge at Hayes Lane. They share plenty in common with Sutton United, who were also promoted having spent their history as a non-league club. The challenges of promotion are also similar, including having to rip up their 3G pitch and replace it with grass for the EFL. It’s a daunting prospect but they have continuity with Woodman in charge. He has the support of wealthy owner Robin Stanton-Gleaves and has succeeded in keeping his promotion-winning squad together. Several of those players already have EFL experience before dropping into non-league football. He can name exactly the same starting XI from the play-off win over Solihull Moors with centre-back Kamarl Grant having returned for another loan from Millwall. Goalkeeper Sam Long will challenge Grant Smith for the No. 1 jersey after signing from Lincoln City, whilst Lewis Leigh impressed for Crewe Alexandra whilst on loan from Preston North End last season and his permanent signing represents something of a coup for the newcomers. League Two will no doubt be a challenge for Bromley, but it’ll be one they’ll be looking to rise too and surprise a few people.