In the second of our series looking at the new teams joining us in League Two this season, we focus on newly-promoted Bromley.
The Greater London-based team secured a dramatic first promotion to the Football League when they defeated Solihull Moors on penalties at Wembley in May.
Here, we take a look at what we can expect from The Lilywhites when the new season kicks off in just under a month.
A Brief History
Founded in 1892, Bromley is set to make its English Football League debut this season, 132 years after its inception. The club's journey began in the South London League before becoming a founding member of the Southern League in 1894. Bromley was also a founding member of the now-defunct London League in 1895-96.
Over the years, the club participated in various leagues, including the Kent League and the Spartan League. Bromley joined the Isthmian League in 1908, winning back-to-back titles in 1908 and 1910, followed by the FA Amateur Cup in 1911. After several league changes and decades of competition, Bromley won its fourth Isthmian League title in 1960-61.
In the 21st century, the club has seen significant success. The re-organisation of the leagues in 2004 led to Bromley's promotion through the playoffs. They secured promotion to the National League South in 2006-07 and won the league in 2014-15, earning promotion to the National League.
The last decade has been particularly fruitful, with Bromley making several playoff appearances and winning the FA Trophy in 2021-22. Their perseverance paid off with a dramatic promotion to League Two at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
Key Players
Michael Cheek
A prolific striker, Michael Cheek (pictured above), is a key player for Bromley. Entering his sixth season with the club, Cheek has consistently scored double-figure goals each season. Last season, he netted 23 goals, including two in the play-off final. In fact, since appearing at Chelmsford in 2023, Cheek has never failed to get less than 12 goals. His scoring prowess will be crucial in League Two.
Marcus Dinanga
Adding firepower to Bromley's attack, Marcus Dinanga joined from Gateshead, where he scored 20 goals in 42 games last season. His addition bolsters Bromley's offensive options.
Grant Smith
The goalkeeper played a vital role in Bromley's promotion, earning both Manager and Community Player of the Season awards. His performances between the posts will be essential in the upcoming season.
Byron Webster
The club captain brings valuable league experience from his time with Millwall, Carlisle, and Doncaster. His leadership will be key in navigating Bromley's debut season in the Football League.
Who's the boss?
Former goalkeeper Andy Woodman is the man who will be leading Bromley into their maiden EFL campaign.
Woodman took over at Bromley in 2021 after leaving his position as Head of Goalkeeping at Arsenal. He had an excellent first campaign, guiding Bromley into the play-offs at the first time of asking. While his team would fall short in a dramatic encounter with Hartlepool United, it was a sign of things to come under Woodman.
Woodman would lead the club to the FA Trophy in 2022, defeating Wrexham in front of 46,000 at Wembley thanks to a Michael Cheek goal.
They would fall short in the play-offs once again in 2023, losing in extra time to Chesterfield after a late goal from Liam Mandeville.
He would finally get the club over the line at the third time of asking. Woodman has remained loyal to the club over the last few seasons, turning down managerial approaches from various EFL clubs, and he will now get the chance to show League Two exactly what he is capable of.
The Stadium
Hayes Lane. Bromley plays its home games at Hayes Lane, which has a capacity of 5,000, including 1,300 seats and 2,500 covered positions. The stadium, Bromley's home since 1938, recently replaced its 3G pitch with turf to meet EFL regulations.
Head-to-Head Record
This season marks the first time Newport County and Bromley will meet as Football League sides. Historically, the two clubs have met six times in non-league, with Newport winning three, Bromley winning one, and two matches ending in draws.
Last time out
The last encounter between Newport County and Bromley occurred on January 10, 2010, at Hayes Lane, with Newport securing a 3-2 victory. Paul Cochlin and Charlie Henry scored for Newport, while goals from Hall and McBean leveled the game. Sam Foley's 69th-minute goal sealed the win for Newport.
Re-watch the classic match HERE.
As Bromley steps into League Two, fans and opponents alike will watch keenly to see how the newcomers adapt and compete in their inaugural season in the English Football League.