Vanarama's National League South Fan Preview: Welling United

Park View Road regular Mark Doig guides us through a summer of change at Welling

League sponsors Vanarama have been getting the fans’ perspective ahead of the new season - which kicks off this Saturday

The new season is nearly upon us - what have Welling fans got to look forward to?
A new season brings a new re-build as is often the case in Non-League football. It's certainly been that way for Welling for the last few years.

After going so close last season, can another promotion push be sustained?
Steve King’s team were incredible last season and came so close. When the side was disbanded, I thought that it would be a lot tougher this season. However, having seen the new squad that has been assembled, I'm hopeful for another assault on the play-offs.

What’s been the Wings best bit of business done over the past few months?
Adam Coombes seems to have an affinity with Welling and if he stays fit, he will give opposition defences plenty of headaches. However, there are quite a few exciting new signings.

So what will be different this season from last?
New management and new playing staff for starters! Very few players have remained from last season so it will be a new team and a new playing style.

Who will be your one to watch once it all gets underway?
It’s hard to tell in pre-season but I like what I’ve seen from the wide players so far. They look very exciting.

Who are the other teams to watch out for?
Once Gary Johnson took over at Torquay United last season, only one club was going to win the league. This time around, you could look at seven or eight teams and think that they have a chance. I wouldn’t be surprised if the league is really competitive this season but if I had to plump for one it would be Havant & Waterlooville.

Which ground are you most looking forward to visiting?
There won’t be any new grounds for me but most of my fellow supporters appear to be looking forward to going back to Weymouth and spending the weekend there!

And what game would you like to win more than any other?
Beating Dartford comes top. I know quite a few Darts fans and it’s always enjoyable to have the bragging rights!

You can have one rival player - who do you pick?
I’ve always liked Jordan Parkes as a player but I think that Welling have two good players competing for his position so if they stay fit I’m not too concerned.

To end, the key question - where do you predict your team will finish next season?
As stated earlier, I’m expecting a very competitive season as there are a lot of closely matched teams. If injuries and other unforeseen events can be avoided, the squad looks to be very capable of reaching the play-offs.

Vanarama have recently launched the National League Club Reward scheme to help fans back their club’s budget. Every time a fan takes out a brand new van lease with Vanarama or a brand new car lease with Motorama their club will earn £100 and you will receive £30 cashback.

For the latest van leasing deals head to Vanarama.
For the latest car leasing deals head to Motorama.

Where next?

Dev Sets His Sights High For BT Sport Curtain Raiser Judge us after ten games. The opening day is just the first of many matches. Let’s see where we are a few months down the line.
Now County Are The Ones Rising As BT Sport Join The Party As the previews and predictions are being written, the name Stockport County is being furiously scribbled. Jim Gannon knows what a lot of people are thinking right about now.