Here we go then, the 2024/25 Vanarama National League South season is upon us! As a new season looms, The Focus Community Arena awaits for the return of league action this coming Saturday, as we open the season against league newcomers, Salisbury FC. Let's delve deeper into tomorrow's opposition...
Founded: 2014
Nickname: The Whites
Stadium: The Raymond McEnhill Stadium
Stadium Capacity: 5000
Manager: Brian Dutton
History of The Whites
A club created completely from scratch, Salisbury FC are currently the youngest club in the National League South, being formed due to a consortium back in 2014. After their introduction, The Whites were placed into the Wessex Premier in the 2015/16 season, finishing the campaign on an astounding 105 points, being crowned division champions in their first competitive season. Following their promotion, competing in the BetVictor Southern League Premier Division, was the club's next task.
Being newcomers, Salisbury were not fazed by this, and went onto finish second in 16/17, deservedly achieving back-to-back promotions. The Whites then settled into the Southern Premier League division for five years under Paul Dutton, in which this would turn out to be their most successful period. Securing a third place finish in their fifth season, the final promotion tie against AFC Totton went to penalties after a tense 120 minutes of action finishing at 1-1. However, a penalty save from Gosney resulted in The Whites getting into the National League South for the first time ever in their short standing.
Current manager, Brian Dutton, was appointed manager of The Whites back in 2022, after having coaching spells at both Bristol Rovers & Walsall. Placing 15th in his first season in charge, Dutton then went onto help smash the club's ambitions, by getting that third place finish in the play-off final to get where they are now.
Hemel fans maybe familiar with one of Salisbury's players in particular. That being former Tudor, Craig Fasanmade, who joined our opponents earlier this summer.
As we prepare to kick-start a new campaign, Salisbury will be looking to settle into life in a completely new division fairly early, so we look forward to welcoming The Whites on the opening day!
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