It’s Go Time! National League Returns With A Bang!

The pitches are mowed, the cones are ready to be scattered across the grass and the refreshment huts will be swirling into life without hours. National League football is finally back!

The opening day always brings with it fresh optimism, and from a fans’ point of view some things never change. But one thing that will be different this time is where you watch it all unfold when not on the terraces.

The long summer bought news of an incredible new broadcasting deal with DAZN and their cameras are in place at Roots Hall as their live selections start with a barnstormer.

Southend United, under new ownership and with hope for the future, welcome York City - who know this year needs to be better after leaving it until the last moments to secure survival following a summer of extravagance.

It’s not the only big game as the curtain raises on the campaign.

Oldham Athletic know they must improve too. Many people’s promotion tip a year ago, the Latics were nowhere near the top seven when it mattered. New arrivals Braintree Town will be no fools with exciting firepower.

We’ve also got a promoted vs relegated match up. They were three leagues apart just months ago but Tamworth and Sutton United start as equals this weekend.

Also down from the EFL after seven years away are Forest Green Rovers. It’s a tricky start at Aldershot, who put their faith in Tommy Widdrington’s recruitment again following some high profile exits.

Solihull Moors fans know how to nurse Promotion Final heartache. After falling just short for a second time in May, they will want to cross that line this time. They start at AFC Fylde.

Barnet were blitzed in the semi-final by Andy Whing’s side. This time they are many people’s favourites but it won’t be easy at FC Halifax Town, who beat eventually-promoted Bromley on the first day 12 months ago.

Welcome back Boston United, the Pilgrims get down to business in front of their fans with Rochdale the visitors.

There’s a London derby as Wealdstone, under new management with Matt Taylor at the helm, head around the capital and look to get their new era off to a winning start at Dagenham & Redbridge.

Altrincham’s ambition is to eclipse a record breaking season but Woking won’t their let off issues distract.

It’s a long trip to Gateshead for Ebbsfleet United and the Heed have won every pre-season game they have played this summer.

Darren Sarll says his focus is on the here and now as he takes his Hartlepool United side to former club Yeovil Town.

Maidenhead United have had a very, very good summer with the seven figure sell on for Max Kilman helping them no end. Can they celebrate their news by getting off to a flyer at Eastleigh?

Opening day fixtues

AFC Fylde v Solihull Moors
Aldershot Town v Forest Green
Altrincham v Woking
Boston United v Rochdale
Dagenham & Red v Wealdstone
FC Halifax Town v Barnet
Gateshead v Ebbsfleet United
Maidenhead United v Eastleigh
Oldham Athletic v Braintree Town
Southend United v York City
Tamworth v Sutton United
Yeovil Town v Hartlepool United