As Newport County prepare to face Bromley on Boxing Day, we take a closer look at the Ravens.
What’s their story?
Formed in 1892, Bromley FC boasts a rich history that spans over a century. From its early days in the Southern League in 1894, Bromley was quick to make its mark in the non-league football scene.
They were founding members of several leagues over the years, including the London League (1896), the Spartan League (1907), and the Isthmian League in the early 20th century.
Bromley enjoyed some success during this period, winning multiple titles in the Isthmian League and the FA Amateur Cup in the early 1900s. After periods of fluctuating fortunes, they joined the Athenian League in 1919, where they won titles in 1923, 1949, and 1951.
The club’s journey through the decades saw them go through several promotions and relegations within the Isthmian League, before making the jump to the Conference South (now known as the National League South) in 2007.
In a landmark achievement, Bromley won the Conference South title in 2014–15, earning promotion to the National League (fifth tier). Despite several unsuccessful attempts to reach the Football League through the playoffs, Bromley made their breakthrough in 2023-24, winning the National League play-offs and securing promotion to the English Football League for the very first time in their history.
Who’s the Boss?
Bromley’s rise to the Football League has been guided by Andy Woodman, a manager with an impressive coaching pedigree.
Woodman’s playing career included stints at clubs like Crystal Palace, Northampton Town, Brentford, and Southend United. After transitioning to coaching, Woodman worked as a goalkeeping coach at some of the Premier League's top clubs, including West Ham United, Charlton Athletic, and Newcastle United.
In 2018, Woodman joined Bromley as the Head of Goalkeeping, before being appointed as the manager. With his extensive experience in the Premier League and working alongside top-tier goalkeepers, Woodman has been instrumental in Bromley’s progress, guiding them to FA Trophy glory in 2022 and playing a pivotal role in their historic promotion to the Football League.
Who’s the skipper?
At the heart of Bromley’s defence is Byron Webster, the 35-year-old centre-back and club captain.
Born in Leeds, Webster’s career has taken him from York City through various clubs in the Football League, including Yeovil Town, Millwall, and Scunthorpe United. His experience in the Football League, particularly his time at Millwall where he made 138 appearances, has been vital in solidifying Bromley’s defence.
Webster arrived at Bromley in 2020, bringing with him a wealth of experience. He quickly assumed the captaincy role and played a key part in the club’s FA Trophy win in 2022 and their promotion to the EFL in 2023-24. A leader on and off the field, Webster's presence has been invaluable to Bromley’s success in recent years.
A key player
A constant goal threat for Bromley is Michael Cheek, the club’s talismanic striker. Cheek has been in prolific form since joining the Ravens in 2018, having previously excelled at clubs such as Ebbsfleet United and Dagenham & Redbridge.
Cheek’s most notable achievement came in the 2020-21 season, where he won the National League Golden Boot, scoring 21 goals, nine more than in his first season at Hayes Lane. His consistency in front of goal has made him a fan favourite and a vital part of Bromley’s attacking line-up. Cheek’s most memorable moment came when he netted the only goal in Bromley’s FA Trophy final win over Wrexham at Wembley Stadium.
His goal-scoring ability will undoubtedly be key as Bromley look to establish themselves in the Football League for the first time in their history.
