A standout side has dominated England’s fifth tier in the past three seasons, but the opening weekend results demonstrated how hard predicting this year’s winner is.
Chesterfield stormed to promotion last season, amassing 98 points. The Spireites were the clear class of the field, finishing 12 points clear of Barnet in second. That gap would likely have been even greater if they hadn’t secured promotion so early in the season.
The year before, the league was dominated by Wrexham and Notts County. Both surpassed 100 points and were levels above the other teams in the division.
While the gap wasn’t as prominent in the 2021/22 season, Stockport comfortably secured promotion to League Two. However, this weekend’s results suggest this season will buck the trend.
Bookmakers had Barnet as the National League favourites heading into the season, a justified status given their form last season and impressive summer recruitment. However, they fell to defeat at Halifax on their seasonal debut, showing just how challenging the National League will be this season.
There was one opening day clash between two of the more fancied sides, as York City travelled to Southend. The game was very competitive, with the home side buoyed by the newly confirmed takeover in the first half before the visitors took control in the second half. Both sides will have hope they can push for the single automatic promotion spot this season.
Newly relegated Forest Green is another side with high expectations, but they were held to a draw at Aldershot. Both teams were impressive going forward, bagging three goals a piece. However, Forest Green’s defence will have to improve significantly if they want to challenge for promotion.
Sutton United, the other side relegated from League Two last season, also drew their opening game at Aldershot. The failure of both relegated sides to secure three points is another indication of how hotly contested the 5th tier will be this season.
Gateshead and Oldham lived up to their status as promotion contenders on the opening day, making an early case as mainstays in those weekly football accas. They both produced convincing wins over some of the weaker sides in the division. Fans of both clubs will believe they can secure a playoff place at a minimum.
Solihull Moors were another hotly tipped side going into the opening weekend. Last year’s playoff final losers have made some solid additions, and many fans expect them to be another side pushing for promotion. However, they stumbled out of the blocks, losing 3-2 to AFC Fylde on the opening day.
The considerable number of clubs looking to challenge for promotion from the National League means we’re likely to see the most competitive 5th tier in years. So expect to see some shocking results almost every weekend.
