The National League North And South Are Back With A Bang!

14 Aug 2021 By Sam Elliott

The National League North and South clubs returned to action for the first time in six months - and many sides made up for lost time.

It was an eventful opening day in both divisions as the fans were back in grounds and the goals flowed.

Fancied York City fell to defeat in their new home - Kidderminster Harriers striking late to break the home fans’ hearts.

Russ Penn’s team secured the 2-1 win thanks to Sam Austin’s 88th minute goal.

AFC Fylde started superbly - a 4-2 win at Guiseley made it an opening day to remember for the clinical Coasters.

Ben Tollitt scored twice and so did Nick Houghton, his two penalties sealed the deal in Yorkshire.

Southport twice battled back to claim a plucky point in a thrilling 2-2 draw with Gloucester City.

JJ O’Donnell was at the double as Blyth Spartans showed better could be coming this season, they eased past Alfreton 2-0.

Twariq Yusuf netted the winner as Brackley won 1-0 against Chorley.

Spennymoor spoiled Boston United’s party - Scott McLean stepped up two minutes from the end to seal a 2-1 victory at the Pilgrims’ new home.

There were a few 1-0 wins. Kettering Town saw off Bradford PA, and and Farsley triumphed at Hereford.

Hampton & RB were excellent away from home last season - and they showed again they are kings of the road.

A 5-0 win at Eastbourne Borough puts them top of the fledgling table. Kadell Daniel, pictured, scored twice.

Ebbsfleet United also hit five, Dom Poleon scored a first-half hat-trick as they ran Tonbridge Angels ragged.

Dan Roberts’ late, late double got Dartford off to a flier as they won 3-1 at St Albans City.

Dorking Wanderers were top when last season ended but first day defeat at Concord Rangers means they will need to show their teeth after a set-back in Essex.

Bath City started well, they were too good for Billericay Town, 3-0 winners at Twerton Park.

Scott Rendell was on target as Havant & Waterlooville won 3-0 at home to Welling United.

Maidstone United mean business and showed their style by beating Hemel Hempstead 4-2. Joan Luque bagged a well-taken brace at the Gallagher Stadium.

Tom Derry’s winner helped Slough Town to 1-0 victory against Chelmsford City.

Danny Mills’ opener wasn’t enough for Dulwich Hamlet as Chippenham battled back to earn a 1-1 draw at Champion Hill as the fans returned.

Click here for all today’s results.

PHOTO BY THOM LANG

Where next?

It’s Fan-Tastic To Be Back! Supporters Return For Big Kick-Off The crowds poured into grounds again on Saturday as the National League North and South swung back into life after a long 179-day absence.

Late Deals Done With The New Season All Set For Take-Off! For many managers, they will get to see their summer signings in action for real this weekend.