July saw preparations for the new season getting well underway. The squad returned for training at the beginning of the month, with pre season friendlies commencing later on. The new league fixtures are released and FA Cup and FA Trophy draws are also made so dreams of cup glory can start anew.

The FA Cup draw has Leafe away to local divisional rivals Chipstead in the preliminary round. The game at Chipstead will have extra significance as it is new manager Nicky English's ex side, so no doubt he will have a point to prove. Whilst at Chipstead, English led the side to the 4th qualifying round before going out to Torquay. It would be nice if he could emulate that feat with Whyteleafe or even go one better, as many supporters still have great memories of the only time we progressed to the first round proper, and would love to have that experience again. In the FA Trophy we were handed an away tie to Bognor Regis.

On the squad front it appears that a good number of last season's squad have returned for preseason, though it is usual at this level for the squad to chop and change until the season opener, and we can no doubt expect a few comings and goings through the pre season match schedule. The first friendly was at home to premier division Maidstone and Leafe earned a creditable draw which perhaps should have been a win as Maidstone equalised with the final kick of the game, but all in all it was an encouraging start.

Our league campaign starts at home to Merstham on 21st August, a repeat of last season's opener which Merstham won 1-0. Why not make a note in your diaries, and come down and support your local side.