As we approach the 2023/24 Non-League Football season, the National League South is gearing up to welcome new teams with different stories to tell. This upcoming season will introduce some fresh faces to the league, some who made it here by earning promotions, and others from higher leagues who didn’t do so well last season.
The 2022/2023 season was quite the roller coaster ride, with memorable victories, heart-wrenching defeats, and surprising obstacles. But now, all National League South fans’ eyes are on the following new arrivals:
Truro City
In their showdown at Bracknell Town, Truro City achieved their promotion to the National League South. With just seconds left on the clock and the scores tied at 2-2, Captain Connor Riley-Lowe emerged as the hero, snatching a winning goal that shattered Bracknell and propelled the White Tigers to their well-deserved victory.
This success marks their return to the National League South after a four-year Southern League Premier Division stay. Truro City’s journey to this moment has been filled with ups and downs, including an unfortunate curtailment of its leading position in the 2019/20 season due to the outbreak of covid-19.
They’ll join the ranks alongside prestigious West Country clubs like Torquay United, Yeovil Town, Weston-super-Mare, Bath City, and Weymouth, making the 2023/24 campaign one to watch.
Torquay United
Torquay United’s tale is less fortunate than most teams on this list. Their game against Wrexham sealed their fate as they were relegated to the National League South. The game ended in a 1-1 draw against Wrexham, but it wasn’t enough to save them from the drop.
Frank Nouble’s goal had given the Gulls hope after he scored from Aaron Jarvis’ brilliant cross in the 52nd minute. However, their dreams were shattered when Elliot Lee equalised for Wrexham with just 10 minutes remaining. This was a big setback for the EFL giants, as their mistake led to their fall to the National League South.
Before this happened, Torquay had secured some fantastic casino sponsorship deals while they were in the EFL. They had over 12 casino sponsorships, and one of them was with William Hill, which is one of the top sportsbooks around and best online casinos . However, now that they’ve been relegated, some of their sponsorships might be withdrawn, though it’s not certain.
It’s a bitter pill to swallow for Torquay, who were fighting for the National League title just two years ago. Unfortunately, since then, they’ve been on a downward trajectory, facing squad changes and a tough season.
Now, they must regroup and aim to bounce back next year, hoping to return to the higher leagues. Despite the disappointment, they remain determined to stay professional under the guidance of manager Gary Johnson.
Weston-super-Mare
Weston-super-Mare AFC is soaring high as they make a triumphant return to the National League South after a gap of four years. Their journey to promotion was marked by perseverance, key moments, and some brilliant signings. Despite facing setbacks due to the pandemic, the team’s determination never wavered.
The addition of goalkeeper Max Harris proved to be a game-changer, as he kept an impressive 12 clean sheets in 33 games. Other important signings, like Josh Thomas and Marlon Jackson, made the squad even stronger. They started the season with an unbeaten run of 15 games, setting the stage for their success.
Finally, a stunning 4-1 victory against Hendon, with a memorable Marlon Jackson hat-trick, sealed their promotion in front of an ecstatic crowd at The Optima Stadium. Weston-super-Mare AFC is back where they belong, and this journey will forever be etched in its history.
Aveley
Aveley’s journey from the North Division to the National League South has been nothing short of surprising. In their encounter against Hornchurch, they secured a crucial win with a goal from Ryan Scott.
The match proved Aveley’s attacking prowess against Hornchurch’s defensive might. This victory follows their impressive run in the Isthmian League, where they proved themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Just a year ago, they were celebrating promotion from the North Division, and now they find themselves climbing the ranks once more.
Few would have predicted this title challenge, but Aveley defied the odds and lifted the Velocity Isthmian League Cup. The team’s dedication and determination have paid off and earned their rightful place in the National League South.
